Block parties, arts shows, craft workshops, ethnic celebrations and community gardens are just a few of ways Royal City residents have used the neighbourhood grants to build a sense of community.
Locally, Family Services of Greater Vancouver administers the grants offered by the Vancouver Foundation. Recipients of New Westminster Neighbourhood Small Grants recently gathered to celebrate last year’s projects.
“A small event has the power to create a more positive attitude and a sense of belonging to the place you call home,” said Maylen Crespo, coordinator the program in New West. “Neighbourhood residents that promote a sense of community and celebration play an important role in shaping the local identity by making it a more safe and friendly place. For many others, this is an opportunity to give back to their communities by creating pride or by sharing particular knowledge and skills with the people in their neighbourhoods.”
In the past four years, the program has dispersed nearly $108,500 to organizers of about 200 local events.
The program is open to all residents of the city and is intended to provide two or more individual community members with funding to develop their ideas. Examples of possible projects include: artistic or diversity events; book exchanges; a hobbies club; a seniors appreciation breakfast; children’s activities; a get-together with neighbours over coffee; a card game; a workshop or a block party.
For information and to apply for a grant in New Westminster go to www.neighbourhoodsmallgrants.ca or contact Crespo at [email protected].
