As spring turns Alabama green again, the  Alabama Power Foundation is inviting communities and nonprofit organizations to apply for Good Roots grants that can pay for tree-planting and other beautification efforts.

“Our Good Roots grant program is designed to help make Alabama even more beautiful while also promoting the wonderful cities and towns where we live,” said Tanganyika Grayson, program manager at the foundation.

The Good Roots program provides grants up to $1,000 to cities, towns, schools and nonprofits so they can plant trees and undertake other beautification efforts that make public spaces even more inviting. To date, the foundation has awarded more than 760 Good Roots grants across the state, totaling nearly $700,000.

Trees offer multiple benefits beyond beautification, including providing shade and reducing heat and absorbing carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas. Good Roots grants also can help make communities more attractive to visitors and support economic development efforts while building community pride.

Applications for this year’s round of Good Roots grants will be accepted through April 29. To access the online application and view a sample grant, visit www.powerofgood.com and click on “Grants.”

The Alabama Power Foundation also offers Gateway grants, which support community beautification and economic development by helping pay for welcome signage and marketing materials. Gateway grants will be offered later this year to cities and towns across Alabama.

The Alabama Power Foundation is committed to empowering communities and improving quality of life for all Alabamians. Funded by shareholder dollars, the foundation provides philanthropic support to Alabama communities, nonprofits and educational institutions. Learn more about the foundation and its many initiatives at www.powerofgood.com.

(Courtesy of Alabama NewsCenter)