District of Squamish Council has endorsed a Community Grant Policy that will enable non-profit community groups to administer grant funding in our community, therefore creating a streamlined, non-political approach to the overall granting process.
The District has subsequently entered a four-year agreement with the Squamish Community Foundation to manage and distribute grant funds on behalf of Council beginning in 2021.
Prior to the new policy, the District of Squamish accepted Community Enhancement Grant applications from not-for-profit organizations in Squamish once a year for grants to be considered in the following year’s budget. Under the new policy, applications will be accepted by the Squamish Community Foundation.
“Community Grants have the ability to support vulnerable citizens, youth, arts and enhance vibrancy, culture and connectedness in our community, and we are grateful for Squamish Community Foundation’s and Squamish Arts Council’s leadership and commitment to investing in projects and initiatives that enrich the experiences of all of our citizens,” says District of Squamish Mayor Karen Elliott.
The new policy supports the five goals of the District of Squamish’s Official Community Plan: Liveable, Healthy, Engaged, Connected and Resilient as well as supporting programs which increase community capacity, encourage and foster community involvement and volunteerism, benefit District residents and demonstrate cost sharing and cost effectiveness.
Funding will be awarded to non-profit or charitable organizations that propose to enhance the lives of local citizens through the following:
- Decolonization and reconciliation initiatives
- Intergenerational programming
- Enhancement of neighbourhood connectivity
- Environmental stewardship, sustainability and/or climate action
- Equity and Diversity programming
- Support of physical health, mental health and/or social wellbeing
- Youth-led initiatives
- Programming for social services that assist Squamish’s vulnerable populations
“We are proud and excited to be working with the District of Squamish to distribute the annual Community Enhancement Grants,” says Squamish Community Foundation Executive Director Karen Clarke. “The Squamish Community Foundation looks forward to supporting our local charitable partners further and deepening our relations with more Squamish non-profit organizations. We appreciate this opportunity to serve the community of Squamish.”
Applications will be open to all eligible members of our community between February and March each year. Visit our Grants and Funds page for more details and to apply.
To view the District of Squamish Community Grant Policy, click here.
Funded by the District of Squamish
