The William Penn Foundation, a private philanthropic institution based in Philadelphia, supports efforts to enhance the quality of life in the region through strategic investments in education, the arts, and the environment. Within its Environment and Public Space program, the Foundation has introduced an initiative focused on Community Greening Plans. This effort aims to support community-driven strategies that increase and improve green space in urban neighborhoods, particularly those underserved and disproportionately affected by environmental disparities.
This funding opportunity seeks to establish and support the implementation of at least six community-driven greening plans by the year 2035. The foundation emphasizes planning efforts that reflect the voices and needs of local residents, particularly those with direct, lived experiences in their neighborhoods. By engaging community members in the planning and decision-making process, the initiative aspires to build local trust, foster meaningful engagement, and cultivate a shared vision and sense of ownership of public green spaces.
Urban green spaces—including parks, vacant lots, sidewalks, and gardens with vegetation—are associated with significant public health and social benefits. These include improved mental and physical health, cleaner air, and reductions in violent crime. However, data from the Trust for Public Land’s ParkScore Index 2022 shows a stark disparity: neighborhoods of color have 28% less park space, and low-income communities have 43% less compared to their white and higher-income counterparts, respectively. This disparity underscores the need for equitable investment in urban greening efforts.
Organizations interested in participating must be located in or serve communities within Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, or Camden, New Jersey. The William Penn Foundation invites proposals that detail effective methods for initiating and sustaining authentic community involvement in the greening plan development process. Proposals should include clear strategies for collaboration, accountability, and implementation, ensuring that plans are responsive to the specific needs and visions of each community.
Progress for this initiative will be assessed by tracking the number of community-driven plans developed, as well as the geographic areas and specific locations they cover. While the Foundation does not specify application deadlines, award ceilings, or funding minimums, applicants are encouraged to contact Alison Jones, Program Officer for Environment and Public Space, for more information. She can be reached at grants@williampennfoundation.org or by phone at (215) 988-1830.
The initiative is currently accepting proposals. Interested organizations are encouraged to reach out to the Foundation directly for additional guidance and to begin the application process. The overarching goal is to expand equitable access to green space and ensure that all communities, particularly those historically marginalized, benefit from improved urban environments.
