In support of the humanitarian and artistic efforts of non-profit and educational organizations in Laredo and Webb County, Fasken Oil and Gas has presented Prairie Foundation grants totaling $100,000 to five commendable Laredo organizations
The 2019 recipients were announced Thursday at the Foundation’s annual luncheon at La Posada Hotel.
They are the Diocese of Laredo, the Ruthe B. Cowl Rehabilitation Center, the STARS Scholarship Fund, Texas A&M International University, and Laredo Main Street.
The Diocese of Laredo grant will go toward the continuing restoration of San Agustín Cathedral, including the cathedral’s tower, clock, bells, and interior. Bishop James A. Tamayo accepted the grant for the Diocese.
The Prairie Foundation’s grant will provide much-needed support for the general operation of the Ruthe B. Cowl Center, which was founded in 1958. It is the only non-profit outpatient rehabilitation facility within a 150-mile radius of Laredo. The Center offers occupational, physical, and speech therapies, as well as transportation and other medically prescribed services to all individuals regardless of their ability to pay. Mary Lamar Leyendecker received the grant for the Center.
The Foundation’s grant will further the mission of the South Texas Academic Rising Scholars (STARS) fund by providing college scholarships for high school graduates in South Texas. The initiative began in 2002 when Joe LaMantia Jr. joined forces with his family and respected business leaders to establish the STARS Scholarship Fund. La Mantia’s conviction that an educated citizen is essential to the future success of South Texas has ensured that students of any age will have a way to go to college. Steve and Linda LaMantia accepted the grant.
The Praire Foundation’s grant will underwrite the TAMIU International Mariachi Program for the academic year 2019-2020. Established in 2014, the TAMIU Mariachi seeks to preserve the cultural and traditional genre that occupies a central place in community celebrations and that has evolved into a soundtrack for cultural identity.
Receiving the grant were TAMIU President Dr. Pablo Arenas and Dr. Claudia San Miguel, Dean of Arts and Sciences.
The grant to Laredo Main Street will provide operational support. Laredo Main Street is committed to enhancing the vibrant, multicultural community of Laredo’s historic downtown and to diversifying the economic base of the central business district. Board president Roque Haynes accepted the grant.
The Prairie Foundation was established in 1957 by David Fasken to support non-profit charitable and educational organizations through grants. After David Fasken passed away in 1982, his widow, Barbara Fasken, took over directing the affairs of the Foundation. Shortly before she passed away in 1995 she contributed additional funds to substantially increase the assets of the Prairie Foundation, which has given $5.1 million to over 100 organizations.
This year marks the 62nd year of the Prairie Foundation’s involvement in support of non-profits that benefit humanity.
