Joseph O’Neill Ott Fund Grants

The Rhode Island Foundation has announced the Joseph O’Neill Ott Fund Grants, a program designed to support historical and preservation societies throughout Rhode Island. This grant aligns with the foundation's mission to foster the well-being of the state by investing in its cultural heritage and ensuring the preservation of important historical documents and artifacts. The program's focus on restoration, preservation, and acquisition of documents directly contributes to the safeguarding of Rhode Island's rich history for future generations. The target beneficiaries of the Joseph O’Neill Ott Fund Grants are historical and preservation societies located in the smaller cities and towns of Rhode Island. The impact goal is to strengthen the capacity of these societies to effectively manage and protect historical documents. This includes providing financial assistance for activities such as restoration, the purchase of archival containers, and the costs associated with acquiring new historical materials. The program aims to ensure that valuable historical records are maintained in optimal conditions, making them accessible for research and public education. The primary priorities and focuses of the Ott Fund Grants are the long-term storage and preservation of historical documents. Proposals that demonstrate a clear concern for and a well-planned approach to long-term document storage are particularly favored. This emphasis underscores the foundation's commitment to sustainable preservation practices and proactive measures to prevent the deterioration or loss of historical records. Expected outcomes include improved physical condition of historical documents, enhanced organizational capacity for document management among recipient societies, and a more robust collection of preserved historical materials across Rhode Island. While specific measurable results are not explicitly stated, the program implicitly aims for an increase in the number of restored documents, more secure housing for historical items, and the successful acquisition of new documents that might otherwise be lost. The grant amounts, generally ranging from $250 to $750, are intended to provide tangible support for these crucial preservation efforts.