Kingman Rangers Workforce Development Program

The Kingman Rangers Workforce Development Program is a competitive grant opportunity offered by the District of Columbia Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE), aimed at improving the environmental conditions of Kingman and Heritage Islands while providing employment pathways for District residents. The initiative focuses on ecological restoration, visitor engagement, workforce training, and community storytelling. It targets two primary populations: adults with barriers to employment and students attending public and charter high schools within the Anacostia Watershed that have low graduation rates. The grant supports operations and maintenance work on the 47-acre Islands, including trail building, habitat restoration, waste collection, public safety efforts, and green infrastructure management. Rangers also engage in visitor outreach, environmental education, emergency support, and support events and community activities on the Islands. These activities are designed to provide not only tangible environmental benefits but also job training and work readiness for residents who may face systemic barriers to long-term employment. Rangers are expected to work seven days a week in teams of at least two to maintain the safety and operations of the site. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations (with 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) status), faith-based organizations, government agencies, educational institutions, and private enterprises. Applicants may propose partnerships to deliver services such as recruiting, wraparound support, job training, supervision, or environmental education. Wraparound services for participants may include training in soft skills, job readiness, technical skills, and access to legal or job placement services. The program also requires training in de-escalation, emergency response, first aid, environmental interpretation, and cultural awareness. The awarded applicant must track outcomes and maintain a Rangers Program Manual. Applications are due by September 12, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. and must be submitted through DOEE’s online Grants Management System. The program will begin upon grant award and continue through September 30, 2027, with the potential for extension up to two additional years. All applications must include a numeric budget, budget narrative, work plan, and various compliance documents as detailed in the RFA. The total amount of funding available for this project is $467,211, and while matching funds are not required, proposals that include a 20% match or higher may receive additional points in the evaluation process. Awardees are required to attend DOEE-led meetings, submit quarterly and final reports, and collect data on visitors and Island conditions. The application process includes a pre-application information session on August 21, 2025. For questions, applicants should contact the DOEE via email at 2025KingmanRangers.grants@dc.gov.

Proposals should clearly link activities to measurable outcomes, include 20% match if possible to earn extra points, and prioritize safety, inclusion, and environmental education. Applications should address both workforce and ecological restoration goals equally.