Community Grant Program

The Marion County Parks and Recreation Commission (MCPARC) administers the Community Grant Program, designed to assist municipalities and community groups within Marion County, West Virginia. MCPARC supports these entities by providing technical and financial aid for the planning, development, and rehabilitation of public park and recreation facilities. The available funding each year is contingent on the MCPARC board’s fiscal planning process. Through this program, MCPARC aims to encourage the development of recreational infrastructure that benefits broad segments of the community, fosters economic and social development, and enhances the quality of life for residents. The 2026 MCPARC Community Grant Program opened its application period on January 1, 2026, and will close submissions on March 11, 2026. Awards will be announced shortly after the MCPARC board meeting scheduled for March 16, 2026. Approved projects must be completed by December 31, 2026. Grants are available for three main categories of projects: park rehabilitation and development, small-scale improvements in smaller communities, and technical assistance for recreation planning. The funding requires a minimum 50% match, which may be provided through cash contributions, in-kind services, or materials. This cost-sharing structure ensures community investment and sustainability in funded projects. Priority is given to projects that serve large populations, have demonstrated community interest, and can be completed within the calendar year. Specific eligible activities include the development or renovation of playgrounds, ball fields, walking trails, court game areas, and indoor facilities. Support infrastructure such as parking lots, restrooms, lighting, signage, and utilities may also be funded if they serve eligible recreational areas. Facilities not owned by the applicant must be under long-term lease agreements that reflect the life expectancy of the proposed improvements. To determine funding recipients, MCPARC evaluates applications based on a range of criteria including contributions to economic development, community conservation, general and special recreation needs, availability of private or public co-funding, intergovernmental cooperation, and administrative capacity. The agency emphasizes projects that generate employment, enhance accessibility for underserved populations, or introduce innovative recreational concepts. Supporting documentation, such as public hearing records and cooperative agreements, strengthens an application’s competitiveness. Applicants must ensure public input has been incorporated prior to submission and provide documentation such as letters of support or meeting minutes. Property boundaries and legal control over the project site must be demonstrated, especially in cases involving leased land. Equipment prioritized for funding includes durable structures like playground elements, while consumable or operational items (e.g., sports equipment, uniforms) are not eligible. Final project amendments or significant changes require approval from the MCPARC board. All awarded projects must visibly acknowledge MCPARC’s support through provided signage. Additionally, program rules dictate that any project amendment, delay beyond December 31, or change in use of funded facilities must be pre-approved by MCPARC. If misused, MCPARC retains the right to reclaim equipment. Overall, the grant program emphasizes accountability, timely execution, and public benefit to ensure the community receives meaningful and lasting recreational improvements.