Outdoor Programs in Pennsylvania and New Jersey

The William Penn Foundation (WPF) invites proposals for its Supporting Outdoor Programming initiative, which aims to increase equitable access to outdoor experiences in Philadelphia and Camden. This initiative focuses on fostering engagement in parks, trails, and waterways through programming that creates a sense of safety, belonging, and joy for participants, particularly among communities facing the greatest barriers to outdoor access. WPF’s goal is to support 50,000 participant program days by 2035. Eligible projects may include nature-based programming designed to draw more people to public spaces for recreation and community-building. Programs can be facilitator-led (by trained staff or community members) or self-guided and must be shaped by community input to ensure relevance and desirability. Additionally, proposals may include indirect efforts to support programming, such as marketing campaigns to encourage outdoor participation or advocacy to make free outdoor programming more accessible. All programs must operate at no cost to participants. Funding is available for up to three years of project support, with a total allocation of $2.5 million for this RFP. There is no minimum or maximum grant amount, but competitive proposals are expected to request under $400,000 over the funding period. Requested amounts should align with the project’s scope and contribution to the overall objective. Partnerships between organizations are encouraged to combine complementary resources and expertise, maximizing the impact of funded projects. Certain types of activities are not eligible for funding, including capital projects, competitive sports programs, and events where participants act as spectators or workers rather than active participants. Applications must align with the RFP’s objectives and clearly demonstrate how the project will enhance access to high-quality outdoor programming for underserved communities. The application deadline is January 31, 2025, and all submissions must be made through WPF’s Grants Portal. An optional informational webinar will be held on December 13, 2024, at 11:00 AM ET, with a recording available afterward. Interested organizations are encouraged to download the full RFP for detailed guidance on eligibility, evaluation criteria, and application requirements. This opportunity supports innovative programming that promotes environmental connection, community engagement, and the many benefits of outdoor experiences for all residents.