December 12, 2024 – The Williamsburg Community Foundation is pleased to announce $26,971 in grants awarded to 11 local organizations through the Benjamin R. Altshuler Memorial Fund for Amateur Sports. These grants reflect the fund’s ongoing commitment to fostering youth participation in amateur sports, particularly wrestling, and ensuring greater access to athletic opportunities in our region.
2024 Grant Recipients:
- Bethel High School Wrestling
- Bruton High School Wrestling
- Denbigh High School Wrestling
- Grafton High School Volleyball (pictured above)
- Hampton High School Wrestling
- Lafayette High School Wrestling
- New Kent Wrestling Club
- Phoebus High School Wrestling
- Warhill High School Track & Field
- Williamsburg Wrestling Club
- Triangle Skateboard Alliance
Established in 2007, the Benjamin R. Altshuler Memorial Fund honors the legacy of a passionate Williamsburg resident who dedicated his life to supporting amateur sports and improving access to transportation. Since its creation, the fund has distributed almost $311,524 to programs that enrich the community through youth sports.
“We are proud to carry forward Ben Altshuler’s vision of using sports to build character, discipline, and resilience,” said Nancy Sullivan, President & CEO of WCF. “These grants make it possible for local youth to participate in activities that might otherwise be out of reach.”
Among this year’s recipients is the Grafton Girls Volleyball team, which used its grant to purchase essential equipment like volleyballs, nets, and pole pads. These resources helped the team prepare for another standout season, culminating in their Class 3A Regional Championship title.
“We are extremely proud of our Grafton Volleyball Team and family for winning a fifth consecutive Regional Championship,” said Coach David Keeter. “This achievement reflects the hard work, unity, and dedication our girls have to the Grafton Volleyball program. We are looking forward to more success in 2025.”
In addition to wrestling, the fund has supported a variety of lesser-known sports programs, including rowing, mountain biking, and tennis. By focusing on activities not typically accessible or well-funded, the fund ensures that more youth can experience the benefits of organized sports.
Grants from the Benjamin R. Altshuler Memorial Fund prioritize programs that serve youth in low to moderate-income households in New Kent County, Charles City County, James City County, York County, Poquoson, Newport News, Hampton, and Isle of Wight County. Eligible programs may include public school teams, nonprofit organizations, and wrestling clubs, with funds available for scholarships, equipment, uniforms, and other essential expenses.
The next grant application deadline for Amateur Sports Grants will be in September 2025. Visit Apply for a Grant – WCF for more information and to apply online.
Create a Legacy That Reflects Your Passion
Ben Altshuler’s generosity has inspired countless youth and strengthened our community through his thoughtful estate planning. You, too, can create a legacy that reflects your passions and values, supporting the causes closest to your heart for generations to come. To learn more about establishing a fund or including the foundation in your estate plans, visit Give Later – WCF or contact us at (757) 259-1660 or [email protected].