The Pennsylvania Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial (America250PA), in partnership with Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful, EQT Corp. and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, announced the 10 recipients of its 2025 National Pennsylvania Day Mini Grants.

The only recipient in the local four-county area was Benezette Township in Elk County, which was awarded $4,000.

Grants totaling more than $30,000 were awarded in support of projects that improve the community and engage volunteers. Projects could include park and cemetery improvements, revitalization efforts, plantings, painting of community assets, river sweeps, graffiti abatement and murals.

Grants up to $4,000 were available to existing America250PA partners.

‘At America250PA, we believe the strongest legacy we can leave for the Semiquincentennial is a commonwealth that shows up for one another,’ said Cassandra Coleman, executive director of America250PA.

‘Volunteerism isn’t just something we do — it’s who we are. For 250 years, Pennsylvanians have stepped up for each other in moments big and small. That’s the legacy we’re building on through our partnership with Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful, EQT and PennDOT. By cleaning up our communities, we’re reminding ourselves what it means to belong to one.’

‘Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful is thrilled to support America250PA and their impactful projects. We believe that community enhancements — whether through litter cleanups, beautification efforts, planting community gardens or preserving natural areas — foster thriving communities,’ said Shannon Reiter, president, Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful.

‘We are honored to offer National Pennsylvania Day grants, in collaboration with America250PA, to invest in the essential and commendable work being done to improve communities and public spaces across the state.’

Visit keeppabeautiful. org for more information on programs or to find an event near you.