Strengthening and Empowering Equitable Neighborhoods Grant Program

The Strengthening and Empowering Equitable Neighborhoods (SEEN) Grant Program is administered by the Community Relations Commission (CRC) of the City of Worthington, Ohio. This grant program provides funding to support neighborhood and community projects that build stronger relationships, enhance collaboration, and align with Worthington’s Vision Statements. The program is part of CRC’s broader mission to foster inclusion, equity, and civic engagement. Grants are available to individuals, informal groups, and neighborhood or community associations located within the Worthington School District. Applicants must demonstrate how their proposed project will positively impact a neighborhood, geographic area, specific population, or the entire community. Priority is given to projects that occur on public property and do not benefit private businesses or serve as promotional tools. Landscape improvements to private property are ineligible. The total funding allocated for the 2025 SEEN Grant cycle is $3,000. There is no stated minimum or maximum award amount per project. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and are reviewed at the end of each calendar quarter until all funds are exhausted. The 2025 deadlines are March 31, June 30, September 30, and December 31. Applications submitted by each deadline are reviewed at the CRC meeting that immediately follows, and funding decisions are communicated by the middle of the following month. Funded projects in past cycles have included neighborhood signage, landscaping on public land, intergenerational arts initiatives, and disability-focused book programs. All proposed projects must be executed on public property and should aim to create a lasting community benefit. Projects may involve volunteer engagement, partnerships, or intergroup collaboration. Ineligible applicants include businesses, and projects that benefit or promote for-profit entities are not permitted. Applicants are required to submit a completed application form, including a narrative project description, budget, and timeline. Grant recipients must spend funds within one year of the award, submit a completion report with receipts and photos, and may be required to present their project results to the CRC. Grantees are also expected to invite CRC members to public-facing events associated with the project. All inquiries and submissions can be directed to Riley Hoover at riley.hoover@worthington.org or by phone at 614-786-7347. Completed application forms may be submitted via email or mailed to the City of Worthington at 6550 N. High Street, Worthington, OH 43085.

Include photos and a detailed budget; Invite CRC members to public events.