WESTPORT — More than 30 area nonprofits share in $315,000 distributed recently by the Westport Weston Family YMCA’s Bedford Family Social Responsibility Fund, supporting “educational programs designed to empower children and young adults.”

Funding distributed to 33 organizations earlier this month is derived from a $5 million endowment in 2015 by Ruth T. Bedford, a longtime YMCA trustee emeritus and philanthropist, whose gift was designed “to enhance educational opportunities and strengthen the communities she loved,” according to the YMCA’s announcement.

The grants benefit a range of initiatives in Westport and communities in southern Fairfield County, from after-school programs and tutoring services to college preparation and mentorships.

Recipients include: A Better Chance of Westport, Achievement First Bridgeport, Adam J. Lewis, Bridgeport Youth Caribe, Cardinal Shehan Center, Carver Foundation CCC YMCA/Bridgeport, Covenant School of Bridgeport and Institute for Refugees and Immigrants.

Also, Family & Children’s Agency, GCTYO, Hall Neighborhood House, Homes with Hope, Horizons at Sacred Heart/Notre Dame, Horizons GFA, Housatonic Community College Foundation, Kids Empowered By Your Support and Klein Memorial.

Lifebridge Community Services, McGivney Community Center, Mercy Learning Center, Neighborhood Studios of Fairfield County, New Beginnings, Norwalk Community College, Norwalk Housing Foundation and Project Morry.

And, Shepard’s Mentors, Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities, Staples Tuition Grants,  Under One Roof, Urban Impact of Black Rock and Wakeman Boys and Girls Club.

The grants ceremony “brings together people from around the community that put the good of others ahead of themselves,” Adrienne Morrison, a member of the Bedford Family Social Responsibility Fund Committtee, said in a statement announcing this year’s awards.

“The organizations that were honored are really closing the education gap and giving opportunities to children and young adults that will impact them for the rest of their lives,” she added.

For more information about the Bedford grants, email development@westporty.org or call 203-571-6043.