When Canada turns 150 next year Guelph should be humming with celebratory projects and programs thanks to a funding boost to the Guelph Community Foundation.
The organization’s executive director Chris Willard said Tuesday that $60,000 from Community Foundations of Canada, in partnership with the federal Ministry of Canadian Heritage, has essentially doubled to $120,000 what the Guelph Community Foundation can offer local organizations looking to commemorate the anniversary.
Willard said projects and programs that encourage participation in community activities, those that inspire a deeper understanding of the people, places and events that make Canada what it is, or those that build vibrant and health communities will be eligible for consideration.
“The Guelph Community Foundation last year had about $60,000 available to grant,” Willard said. “We have about the same amount to grant this year. But if we use every dollar available from Community Foundations of Canada, we should be able to double what we can grant this year.”
All applicants for the funding must have the backing of a charitable organization with matching funds or in-kind support. Applications for grants of up to $15,000 will be considered. The funding is expected to generate a ground-swell of local initiatives.
“Guelph Community Foundation will in all likelihood be granting it all this year,” said Willard, adding that funds must be dispersed by January of next year.
He said the foundation is asking local organizations to think about what it means to be a Canadian and to come up with 150th anniversary projects that best exemplify those qualities and characteristics. Projects that foster a sense of belonging, inclusion and reconciliation, and that leave a lasting impact on communities and the country are being sought.
A wide variety of projects will be considered. Check ‘community initiatives’ section of the foundation’s website for eligibility guidelines, at www.guelphcf.ca/CommunitybrInitiatives/Canadas150thCommunityFund.aspx.
The funds will be accessible to all charitable organizations, including those dedicated to indigenous peoples, youth, groups reflecting cultural diversity, and official language minority groups.
“Canada’s 150th is an historic moment with the power to strengthen our communities and our connection to one another,” said Ian Bird, President of Community Foundations of Canada, in a press release.
Call the Guelph Community Foundation at 519-821-9216.
