City awards an additional $15,000 to 28 community groups
June 20, 2024
The City of Vancouver’s Community and Neighborhood Grants Program has awarded an additional $15,000 to support 28 local community groups. These funds will support a diverse range of projects that help build community connections, foster a sense of belonging and create learning opportunities for community members of all ages, including:
- Community resource events and neighborhood gatherings
- Cultural celebrations
- Back-to-school events
- Food access programs
- Environmental stewardship projects and native plant giveaways
The grant funding process began in April when the program awarded more than $163,000 to support 30 local community groups.
“Vancouver’s extraordinary community-building spirit is reflected in the many notable applications we continue to receive for our Community and Neighborhood Grants Program,” said City Neighborhood Program Coordinator, Koko Olszewski. “These grants are fostering activities, such as neighborhood barbecues, picnics and other collaborative programs, helping ensure a healthy, safe and connected Vancouver for all.”
As part of the grant process, projects were evaluated based on how well they align with Vancouver’s Strategic Plan and City Council’s core policy priorities of safety, equity and climate action. Of the projects selected, 15 will support vibrant and distinct neighborhoods, 10 will support housing and human needs, six will support climate and natural systems, five will support culture and heritage and two will support economic opportunity.
Grant funds will contribute to many community programs, including picnics, National Night Out events, resource fairs, sports programs and programs for families. Vancouver Bee Project will develop a native plant library with bilingual English and Spanish educational materials and pollinator education for neighborhoods in Central Vancouver. Kaleidoscope Artist and Crafter Collective will use funds to help neurodivergent makers learn new skills and sell products at local markets.
The program still has funding available to support 43 microgrants of up to $500 per grant. Applications for microgrants are accepted on a rolling basis, with the next review period scheduled for early August. Community members are encouraged to apply at cityofvancouver.us/communitygrants by Friday, Aug. 2, to be considered for the August review period.
Media contacts:
Koko Olszewski, neighborhood coordinator, koko.olszewski@cityofvancouver.us
William Cooley, community engagement manager, william.cooley@cityofvancouver.us