Times-Chronicle Staff
What would your neighbourhood do with $500?
Use your imagination because the Community Foundation of the South Okanagan|Similkameen is once again offering neighbourhoods up to $500 in small grants.
If you have a great idea that you want to share with your community, get cracking.
The $500 can go towards care hampers, building materials, tech equipment, online hosting fees and even honorariums. (Sorry, businesses, charities and formal groups cannot apply.)
“The pandemic has changed how we live and how we gather,” said grant coordinator Kim English. “It has also shown us just how creative people are in finding ways to connect, share and celebrate, whether they gather online or within in their small social bubble.”
Last year, the community foundation awarded 36 grants in communities throughout the region.
Neighbours gathered for online cooking demonstrations, yoga and painting classes. Small groups focused on pandemic-safe activities such as no-contact scavenger hunts, socially distanced movie nights and beautification projects.
“In Keremeos, a group of young adults painted a mural of a Syilx/Okanagan legend,” English said, adding that another group tackled a skate park with paint. She noted that these grants are an excellent opportunity for young people who want to contribute to their community, and with a $500 grant, “they can turn their idea into reality.”
Anyone with a creative idea that strengthens the community is encouraged to visit www.cfso.net. The online form asks for a project description and a budget under $500. The applicant will also need to explain how they will comply with provincial health orders. Online applications are open until June 30, with projects being delivered between July and November.
For more information, visit
www.cfso.net or email [email protected]
