2024 Strengthening and Empowering Equitable Neighborhoods Grant Program

The 2024 Strengthening and Empowering Equitable Neighborhoods (SEEN) Grant Program, managed by the Community Relations Commission (CRC) of the City of Worthington, provides funding for projects that enhance community cohesion and align with the Commission's mission. This program encourages residents to submit project ideas that foster a stronger sense of community, align with Worthington’s Vision Statements, and create a lasting positive impact. Previous grant-funded projects include neighborhood improvements such as signage and landscaping, disability book initiatives, and music programs that encouraged intergenerational connections, all of which aim to foster inclusivity and community spirit. Eligibility for the SEEN Grant is open to residents within the Worthington School District. Eligible applicants include individuals, groups, and community or neighborhood associations actively working to benefit the Worthington community. Newly formed groups can also apply, provided they outline how they intend to organize, collaborate, and sustain the project. However, businesses are not eligible, and projects that exclusively benefit for-profit ventures or serve as promotional tools for businesses are also ineligible. Additionally, projects must benefit a specific neighborhood, geographical area, or community demographic and should take place on public property; landscape improvements on private property are not allowed. Grantees must adhere to several requirements, including utilizing the grant funds within the calendar year of the award and inviting CRC members to any events associated with the funded project, such as community gatherings or ribbon-cutting ceremonies. To ensure accountability, grantees are required to sign a Grant Agreement Form before receiving funds and must submit a Project Completion Report—including photos and receipts—within 30 days of project completion or no later than six months after receiving funds. Additionally, grantees may need to present the impact of their project to the CRC or invite CRC members to observe the project’s outcomes. The grant’s review and selection process prioritizes projects that foster community engagement, create volunteer opportunities, strengthen local partnerships, and demonstrate potential for long-term sustainability beyond the initial grant period. Projects that effectively meet these goals are more likely to receive funding. Applications are reviewed by the Grant Review Committee, which consists of CRC members and City of Worthington staff. Interested applicants can find additional information and Worthington's Vision Statements, which guide the grant’s goals, on the City of Worthington’s website. This program offers a valuable opportunity for residents and community groups to contribute to the communal fabric and quality of life in Worthington.