Small neighbourhood grants launching for the South Okanagan Similkameen to grow some good

Photo: CFSO

The Community Foundation of the South Okanagan Similkameen is again launching its Neighbourhood Small Grants (NSG) program, offering small grants up to $500 to individuals for projects that connect people.

Last year, residents used their $500 grants to host movie nights, organize scavenger hunts, plan an interactive seminar to re-think waste disposal, deliver care packages to those negatively affected by the pandemic and many more creative ideas to build local connections.

People with a great idea for this year's grants to strengthen connections can apply at www.cfso.net until May 16.

“A small grant of $500, can kickstart people’s imagination and wiliness to start a project.” said Kim English, CFSO regional development manager.,

“In a year where so many of our local citizens experienced hardships and all of us saw divisive topics driving wedges between our relationships, we’re hoping this program will start bringing neighbours together through their common desire to make the world a better place. A small grant has the potential to be a beautiful start to something huge.”

This year the Community Foundation has $20,000 to give away.

“I think the most memorable part of this experience was just seeing the looks on everyone's faces as they worked on their projects and the big smiles at the end of the class. It is amazing how you can connect with people you don't know through the power of creativity and a shared project.” said An, a NSG Project Leader describes the most memorable experience of leading a project.

For more details on the program, join the Community Foundation's Zoom information session on April 21 at 5 p.m. Register by emailing [email protected]

To find out more on the Neighbourhood Small Grants program and to apply online, visit www.cfso.net