If you have an idea that will increase neighborliness in Whatcom County, Whatcom Community Foundation wants to hear from you. Applications for Project Neighborly grants are open now through May 10, 2024, 4pm.
“Everyone loves this grant program,” says the Foundation’s Senior Vice President of Learning, Opportunities & Impact Pamela Jons. “Groups and organizations who have a great idea about how we can all be better neighbors can apply. As we enter what looks to be another divisive election year, funding efforts that increase kindness and build trust among people in Whatcom County is an idea I think we can all agree on.”
The most important criteria for Project Neighborly ideas? Connect people who may not otherwise meet. Grants up to $5,000 will fuel inspiring, actionable, relevant projects that develop a sense of community and promote neighborliness throughout the rural and urban areas of Whatcom County. The initiative’s aim is to forge more and better relationships communitywide, sparking better ideas and decisions, and a happier, healthier place for everyone. The project period will run from June 2024 through May 2025.
Since 2017, more than 200 ideas, ranging from open mics, community potlucks and a free-lunch summer food truck program to a neighborhood street mural project, fire wise activities and yard waste shredding parties in rural areas, along with dialogues to encourage affordable and safe housing and activities bringing together youth have been funded, totaling approximately $670,000.
Grants have ranged from $360 to $5000, with projects coming from all corners of the county and all manner of groups, from neighborhood associations and faith organizations, to schools, local government and tribes, a range of arts, environmental and social service non-profits and Western Washington University.
To apply visit whatcomcf.org/receive/apply-for-a-grant/. If the online application is a barrier, a paper application submission will be accepted if it is received by the application deadline.
The Community Foundation is investing $100,000. Anyone can help the possibilities pool grow by making a gift online or mailing a contribution to: Whatcom Community Foundation, 1500 Cornwall Avenue, Suite 202, Bellingham, WA 98225.
