Water Infrastructure Improvement & Intermunicipal Grants

The County History Partnership Program (CHPP), established in 2015 by the New Jersey Historical Commission (NJHC), aims to decentralize the administration of local re-granting programs across all 21 New Jersey counties. This initiative directly aligns with the mission to support local history organizations that serve the public, fostering a broader engagement with the state's historical heritage. The program is administered by the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission, which functions as the donor, extending the NJHC's strategic goal of strengthening local historical infrastructure. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are historical societies, organizations, nonprofits, and municipalities responsible for historic structures or archaeological sites. Eligible applicants must be Somerset County-based. The program's impact goals revolve around increasing public access to New Jersey history, expanding knowledge of the state's past, and improving the management capabilities of local history organizations. This approach is intended to create a more robust and accessible local history ecosystem within Somerset County. The grant prioritizes organizations that provide programs or services that achieve these goals. Specifically, applicants must demonstrate a commitment to enhancing public access to history or expanding historical knowledge. Another key focus is on improving the operational and managerial effectiveness of local history organizations, thereby ensuring their long-term sustainability and impact. The foundation's theory of change appears to be that by empowering local organizations with financial support and clear objectives, they can more effectively serve the public and preserve historical assets. Expected outcomes include a more engaged public with New Jersey history, a greater depth of historical knowledge disseminated, and more efficiently run local history organizations. Measurable results would likely include increased participation in historical programs, documented improvements in organizational management, and successful preservation efforts of historic sites. Organizations are also required to have provided public history programs and/or services in Somerset County for the benefit of the general public for at least two years prior to application, and must provide proof of stability and fiscal responsibility, ensuring the grant's investment is directed towards established and accountable entities.