The Tristarr Lifelong Learning Fund is a philanthropic initiative under the Coral Gables Community Foundation, aimed at improving access to adult education opportunities in Miami-Dade County. Established in 2022 through a generous $75,000 donation by Lauren Jane Barnett, the fund is dedicated to supporting local nonprofit organizations that provide educational programs for adults re-entering school. These programs focus on career skills, citizenship, language learning, and cultural enrichment, ensuring that individuals over the age of 25 have the opportunity to continue their education beyond traditional timelines.

The fund was created with the vision that lifelong education should be accessible to all, regardless of their background or stage in life. The principal donor, Lauren Barnett, and her husband were inspired by their personal experiences with adult education and the challenges faced by individuals who do not follow a traditional educational path. The fund embodies the belief that education should not be limited to childhood and young adulthood but should remain a lifelong pursuit. By investing in programs that provide flexible and accessible learning opportunities, the fund seeks to empower adults to gain new skills, advance their careers, and contribute more effectively to their communities.

Eligible applicants for the Tristarr Lifelong Learning Fund include nonprofit organizations operating in Miami-Dade County that support adult learners. Grants awarded through this fund can be used for educational initiatives that help adults gain new qualifications, enhance their job prospects, or develop personal enrichment skills. Specific funding details, including the range of grant awards and the application process, are not explicitly outlined but are expected to follow a structured submission and evaluation process managed by the Coral Gables Community Foundation.

The Coral Gables Community Foundation, which administers the Tristarr Lifelong Learning Fund, has a strong track record of philanthropic impact, having awarded over $11 million to community-focused causes. The foundation provides expertise, local knowledge, and trusted relationships to facilitate charitable giving that aligns with community needs. This initiative aligns with the foundation’s broader mission of fostering positive change through strategic funding and scholarships.

The application process for the Tristarr Lifelong Learning Fund opens on February 3rd. Organizations interested in applying are encouraged to check the Coral Gables Community Foundation’s website for further details. While the fund’s overarching goal is to enhance adult education access in Miami-Dade, it also has a broader mission to support lifelong learning both in the United States and the United Kingdom.