My Great ­Neighbourhood Grant Program application opens March 2020

›› Melissa Faye Reid

Do you have a project idea for your neighbourhood, but unsure the steps to achieve it?

The My Great Neighbourhood Grant Program is a division of the municipal government that supports local residents animate public spaces, develop resilient ­communities, and leave positive legacies in their neighbourhoods. Since 2016, the My Great Neighbourhood Grant has given $389,680 to 127 community-based ­projects.

There are two types of grants available: placemaking and activity. Placemaking is a way for residents to reimagine and ­reinvent public spaces for community enjoyment. It focuses on community assets with the ­intention of creating spaces that support people’s overall wellbeing. ­Placemaking can look a variety of ways including murals, public benches, little free ­libraries, and ­gardens. The space for creativity is ­endless—likewise for activity grants. ­Activity grants can look many different ways and generally revolve around an event or workshop.

Anyone living in the city of Victoria can apply for a My Great Neighbourhood Grant with the support of a not-for-profit organization. Fernwood NRG can act as a sponsor for neighbourhood projects that will enhance the community. Before ­applying for a grant, you will need to meet with a neighbourhood advisor (a city ­representative). Once they’ve approved your project idea, Fernwood NRG can act as the NGO project sponsor.

The My Great Neighbourhood Grant program allows local residents, who know their neighbourhoods better than anybody, create positive change at the grassroots level. The grant program seeks to empower local residents to make impactful changes in their communities while strengthening interpersonal relationships.

The next My Great Neighbourhood Grant application period opens March 1st, 2020. If you have community-based ­project idea—this is time to achieve it!

Please contact Melissa, Events & Engagement Coordinator for ­Fernwood NRG, to speak about a project or learn more about this grant program at melissa@­fernwoodnrg.ca or 250-381-1509 x118.