Several local nonprofit groups will spread good cheer all year long, thanks to grants from the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham.

More than $160,000 was given last week to 71 organizations either based in Shelby County or that serve the Birmingham-metro area.

Community Foundation leaders hope to get the most bang for each buck, especially given the tough economic times.

“We are very conscious of how the economy is affecting our community today,” said Karen Rolen, vice president of community investment. “We already are talking about the best way to support needs that are growing with the uncertain economy.”

Shelby County grants included:

-Alabama Youth Home, $8,000, toward building a walking track.

-King’s Ranch, $6,000, toward counseling and education for homeless or abused women and their children.

-Shelby County Historical Society, $6,000, to expand displays of local Native American artifacts.

-Special Equestrians, $3,000, for therapeutic horseback-riding for people with developmental disorders, injuries or behavioral problems.

-Vineyard Family Services of Central Alabama, $5,000, toward staff to expand the Fatherhood Initiative Training program for dads in the Shelby County Work Release Center.