Community and Neighborhood Grants Program awards more than $163,000 to 30 community groups
April 8, 2024
The City of Vancouver’s Community and Neighborhood Grants Program has awarded more than $163,000 to support 30 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 residents of all ages, including:
- Community events and neighborhood gatherings
- Cultural celebrations
- After-school programs
- Art events
- Garden and nutrition programs for low-income residents and people experiencing homelessness
- A youth robotics team
- Educational programs for students, parents and families
“The number of exceptional applications we received speaks volumes about the strength of our community,” said City Neighborhood Program Coordinator, Koko Olszewski. “It illustrates the community-building spirit in Vancouver.”
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 30 projects selected, 21 will support vibrant and distinct neighborhoods, 10 will support economic opportunity, nine will support housing and human needs and eight will support culture and heritage.
Grant funds will contribute to the launch or expansion of multiple summer programs. A new BIPOC community support program will build community connections and expand access to local resources. And a new summer development program along the Fourth Plain Boulevard corridor will empower teenagers with valuable skills and opportunities for personal growth.
The grants will facilitate community-building activities, such as barbecues, picnics and volunteer appreciation events, all aimed at bringing people together and fostering a sense of belonging within Vancouver’s diverse neighborhoods.
Funding available for $500 microgrants
The grant program has $36,500 available to support microgrants of up to $500 per grant. These grants can support picnics, block parties, carnivals or smaller-scale projects.
Applications for microgrants are accepted on a rolling basis, with the next review period scheduled for early June. Community members are encouraged to apply at cityofvancouver.us/communitygrants by Friday, May 31, to be considered for the June review period.
Media contacts:
Koko Olszewski, neighborhood coordinator, koko.olszewski@cityofvancouver.us
William Cooley, community engagement manager, william.cooley@cityofvancouver.us