Civic Life & Belonging Grants

The Project Connect: Civic Life & Belonging Grant is administered by the Community Foundation of South Puget Sound and is designed to fund innovative, community-based projects in Lewis, Mason, and Thurston counties. These grants aim to foster civic engagement, cross-community connection, and a deeper sense of belonging among residents. The program encourages creative approaches that bring people together, especially those who might not typically interact, and cultivates stronger relationships across diverse communities. Funding will support new initiatives that improve shared experiences and promote civic participation, community collaboration, and collective well-being. The primary goals of the grant are to support efforts that bring people together across differences, promote civic participation through locally driven solutions, and celebrate or strengthen community identity and shared purpose. Suggested project types include community storytelling circles, youth-led service initiatives, workshops or dialogues that unite people of differing perspectives, and public art projects reflecting diverse voices. Other eligible projects might activate or improve community spaces through events or upgrades. Projects must be rooted in the eligible counties and designed to meet specific local needs with achievable, well-planned execution strategies. The 2025 grant cycle will award up to 15 grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, with an average expected award of $3,000. Funds are not intended for personal purchases, general operating expenses of existing nonprofits, individual scholarships, or recurring events. Equipment and contractor expenses may be allowed if they are directly connected to the execution of the proposed project. Grants will be awarded by October 31, 2025, and recipients will be required to submit a brief final report within 8 to 12 months of receiving funding. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations with valid 501(c)(3) status, Native American tribal agencies, public institutions, religious organizations, and fiscally sponsored projects. Individuals with ideas may also be considered eligible if they partner with an eligible entity to execute the project under that organization’s umbrella. Applications will be evaluated based on alignment with grant goals, clarity of purpose, relevance to local community needs, feasibility of the plan, and engagement of diverse community members. Projects led by trusted local community leaders and connectors are given preference. The application process is managed through the Community Foundation's online grants platform. Applicants must create an account and provide organizational information, including a tax ID and executive contact. The application opens on June 17, 2025, and closes at 11:59 PM on July 31, 2025. The review period runs from August 1 to September 25, with notifications and funds distributed by October 31. Only one application per organization is allowed per cycle, and applications must clearly outline how the grant will be used and how it benefits the community. For assistance with the application process, including language access or accessibility support, applicants can contact Heidi Oehler at heidi@thecommunityfoundation.com or by phone at 360-705-3340. Applicants are also asked to submit a photo with permission for use in Community Foundation promotional materials upon award. The grant cycle is annual, and projects that demonstrate capacity for community benefit, clarity of execution, and inclusivity are strongly encouraged to apply.

Applications must be complete, submitted via the online platform, and must explain how the project aligns with grant goals. Clear articulation of outcomes and local benefit is critical.