Building Socially Connected Communities Program

The Indiana Office of Community & Rural Affairs is seeking applications for its Building Socially Connected Communities Program. Donor Name: Indiana Office of Community & Rural Affairs State: Indiana County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant | In-Kind Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 09/12/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: In light of concerning public health statistics in Indiana, OCRA is uniquely positioned to address these challenges through a community and economic development lens with the creation of the Building Socially Connected Communities grant program. Purpose Community Well-Being and Social Capital: Public health statistics in Indiana reveal a concerning trend in individual health outcomes and in the overall well-being of communities. Social isolation and loneliness impact the social fabric and cohesion of neighborhoods, diminishing social capital. This grant program seeks to strategically invest in initiatives that build social connections, strengthen community bonds and enhance the overall quality of life for all Hoosiers. Economic Vibrancy and Local Businesses: Social isolation has economic implications as well, which affects local businesses and community vitality. Those experiencing loneliness may be less engaged in community and economic activities. The Building Socially Connected Communities grant program seeks to foster community engagement and indirectly supports local businesses, enhances economic vibrancy and contributes to the overall economic health of Indiana’s communities. Alignment with Statewide Development Goals: Indiana is actively pursuing statewide development initiatives aimed at enhancing community resilience and fostering economic growth. Addressing social isolation and loneliness aligns with these goals by contributing to the creation of strong, connected communities. This program provides a platform for collaborative efforts between local government, community organizations, local businesses and residents to develop and implement initiatives that enhance the social fabric of the cities and towns. Areas of Funding  Community Infrastructure Enhancement Allocate funds to enhance community centers, meeting spaces and facilities that serve as focal points for social engagement, fostering a sense of community and mitigating the effects of social isolation. Social Clubs & Interest Groups Fund initiatives aimed at creating and sustaining social clubs and interest groups tailored to the preferences and needs of older adults, aligning with the advisory report’s recognition of the importance of tailored interventions. Community Well-Being Programs Support mental health programs that increase awareness, reduce the stigma around loneliness and providing accessible resources to promote mental health among those experiencing loneliness. Local Business Support Enhance local businesses and establishments that cater to the needs and preferences of those experiencing loneliness, such as creating inviting spaces that promote social interactions. Transportation Accessibility Improve transportation options for those experiencing loneliness in rural areas, expanding opportunities to easily access community events, social gatherings and essential services. Intergenerational Initiatives Create intergenerational programs that facilitate meaningful interactions between different age groups. Funding Information There is $200,000 in total funding available. Applicants can apply for either type, but not both. Quick Action projects: Maximum award $5,000 Minimum $1,000 1:1 match, 30% of match can be in-kind Large Impact projects: Maximum $50,000 Minimum award $5,001 1:1 cash match State Funds (e.g. READI, CreatINg Places, etc.) may not be used as matching funds. Eligible Applicants  Local government Non-profit organizations Community groups Ineligible Activities Plants, greenery, shrubs or anything of that nature Wi-Fi One-time use activities or products Permanent public restrooms Taxes Food, drink or alcohol Gaming and gambling activities Illegal, political or unsanctioned activities Demolition Salaries Administration fees, including grant writing or administration Spaces that are not open to the public Expenses that were incurred pre-award. For more information, visit OCRA.