Community Foundation accepting grant program applications

FOUNDATION OFFERING INFORMATION SESSION TO ASSIST GROUPS ON TUESDAY

Applications are now open for grant programs offering more than $800,000 for southern Alberta initiatives. And an information session will be held Tuesday to assist groups who hope to apply.

“Every year, we connect generous donors with causes that are close to their hearts,” explains Caitlin Gajdostik. And that allows the Community Foundation of Lethbridge and Southwestern Alberta to make the awards to qualified groups year after year.

Gajdostik, the grants coordinator, urges potential grant recipients to attend an information session at the Community Foundation office — Unit 50, 1202 2 Ave. S.) at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday. All interested are asked to contact her by email at grants@cflsa.ca

The foundation administers three major grant programs, she explains.

The Community Priorities Grants Program, the foundation’s largest, provides more than $430,000 to support community groups and the charitable sector across the region. Applicants can request a maximum of $15,000 and the application deadline is March 15.

The Henry S. Varley Fund for Rural Life provides support for projects and initiatives committed to sustaining a high quality of life for rural communities in southwestern Alberta. It was created as a result of a bequest from William “Bill” Long in honour of his uncle, Henry Varley, and the family’s ranching heritage. It assists “rural-centric projects” that focus on innovation, community collaboration, education and training.

Its deadline is also March 15.

Youth in Action Grants empower youth by encouraging collaboration on projects that will have a positive impact on their community. Applicants can request up to $2,000 and the projects must be initiated, led and organized by individuals (or a group) up to 25 years old — in collaboration with a charity or school. Its deadline is near: Feb. 28. More information on eligibility and funding criteria is available online at www.cflsa.ca/granting.

Organizations or groups must be registered with the Canada Revenue Agency, or be in partnership with a municipality or registered charity to qualify for a Community Foundation grant.

Foundation staff members are also available to assist organizations with their grant applications, and can be reached at 403-328-5297. All applications must be submitted online via the granting website,