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New West residents – including youth – are invited to apply for Neighbourhood Small Grants

Youth grants now being offered
YouthGrant2
The Chief Skemxist mural in Keremeos, organized by Madeline Terbasket (shown) and Laurel Irons, is an example of Neighbourhood Small Grant projects undertaken by B.C. youth.

Neighbourhood Small Grants are available to folks who want to contribute to their community – including youth.

Sienna Campbell, a Grade 11 student at New Westminster Secondary School, is a member of the youth committee for the Youth Neighbourhood Small Grants, which provide grants of up to $500 to build community relationships and bonding. She’s encouraging local youth to share their talents with other people and engage in the community.

“It’s pretty broad,” she said. “You can kind of do anything.”

Previously, youth had to the Neighbourhood Small Grants program for funding for various enedeavours.

“People might think that they have an idea but it’s not good enough – I’d just say, whatever you think of, go for it. The worst they can say is no,” Sienna said. “It’s better to try.”

Applications are open until Nov. 9. More details can be found at www.neighbourhoodsmallgrants.ca.

In related news, the deadline for the next round of Responsive Neighbourhood Small Grant applicants is approaching. Applications are being accepted until Saturday, Oct. 30.

“We are still providing small grants of up to $500 for projects that connect communities socially, or that share skills and talents – whether physically distanced or online. And yes, a grant means you don’t need to pay back this funding – no matter the outcome,” said a notice about the program. “With the great participation in response to the pandemic from many project leaders in our community, we can't wait to see the projects you dream up to help our communities stay connected and resilient.”

Maylen Crespo, New Westminster Neighbourhood Small Grants program coordinator, said when people feel connected to their neighbourhoods, they are safer, healthier, and more resilient at coping with individual and collective difficulties. 

“For those who apply for a project, it gives a sense of empowerment to actively contribute to their communities and to enhance their quality of life,” she said in an email to the Record. “Those who apply for this type of grant have the opportunity to initiate change for betterment and to help define the communities they live in. It helps build trust, cooperation and reciprocity among neighbours and in our communities.”

For more information the Responsive Neighbourhood Small Grants, go to www.neighbourhoodsmallgrants.ca, email mcrespo@fsgv.ca or call 604-368-1901.

 

Follow Theresa McManus on Twitter @TheresaMcManus
Email tmcmanus@newwestrecord.ca