Quality of Place

Investing in Places that Strengthen Community Life

Life is good in Midland, and when we come together to support unique spaces in our city, we can make it an even better place to be. Scharbauer Foundation invests in projects and initiatives that enhance Midlanders’ quality of life, strengthen community identity, and support long-term economic and cultural growth. From parks, recreation, and public spaces to downtown development, community facilities, and infrastructure improvements, the Foundation backs projects that help make Midland a more vibrant and connected place to live and work.

The Foundation believes strong communities are built not only through education and healthcare, but also through meaningful places and experiences that bring people together and improve daily life for residents and families.

Supporting Community Growth, 
Connection & Opportunity

Quality of Place investments reflect Scharbauer Foundation’s long-term commitment to creating a stronger, more livable Midland for current and future generations. The Foundation supports projects that contribute to community pride, economic vitality, recreation, culture, accessibility, and overall quality of life throughout Midland.

Funding priorities include parks and public spaces, downtown revitalization, recreation and wellness facilities, community gathering spaces, and projects that help attract and retain residents, families, workforce talent, and businesses to Midland.

Areas of Quality of Place Support

Parks, trails, and public spaces

Community gathering and event spaces

Community programming

Recreation and wellness facilities

Outdoor education initiatives

Projects that strengthen economic vitality and community connection

Current & Transformational Quality of Place Initiatives

Scharbauer Foundation has supported a number of community-centered projects and transformational quality of place initiatives throughout Midland. Many of these initiatives are developed in collaboration with local nonprofits, civic organizations, municipalities, and community partners working together to strengthen Midland’s long-term quality of life and 
sense of place.

  • $52M+
    awarded in quality of place grants since inception
  • 90+
    quality of place grants awarded
  • 19%
    of all foundation grant funding directed toward quality of place initiatives

Quality of Place PROJECTS & INITIATIVES

Watersong Wild Space capital campaign for education and events center

Midland Athletic Syndicate capital campaign to build an indoor sports complex

Museum of the Southwest giftshop expansion

Land purchase for future Northwest YMCA of Midland

Centennial Park

Manor Park campus renovations and improvements

Midland Shared Spaces capital campaign for first-floor renovations

Impact Stories

Centennial Park

Centennial Park has become one of Midland’s most active gathering places, bringing residents together through recreation, events, entertainment, and shared public space. Located in the heart of downtown, the park is a destination for families, local celebrations, concerts, seasonal programming, and everyday use, helping create a more vibrant and connected community.

Scharbauer Foundation supported the vision for Centennial Park as part of its broader commitment to quality of place investments that enhance Midland’s livability and strengthen community connection. By transforming an underutilized space into a welcoming public asset, the project has helped create new opportunities for residents to gather, engage, and experience downtown Midland.

Today, Centennial Park stands as an example of how strategic investments can contribute to economic vitality, civic pride, and quality of life. The park continues to serve as a hub for community activity while supporting the ongoing revitalization of downtown Midland and creating a shared space for generations to enjoy.

Ready to Apply?

Scharbauer Foundation welcomes grant pre-applications from organizations and institutions working to improve quality of life, strengthen community connection, and enhance Midland’s long-term growth and vibrancy.

Organizations interested in applying for funding are encouraged to review grant eligibility requirements and application guidelines prior to submission. If you have additional questions regarding eligibility, funding priorities, or the grant process, please contact the Foundation’s Program Officer, MK Marshall, at mmarshall@sfmidland.org, or the Vice President of Grantmaking and Communications, Megan Lea, at mlea@sfmidland.org.

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