SEEN 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. The CRC operates as a local governmental body committed to supporting inclusive and equitable community development. Through the SEEN Grant, the CRC allocates funding to initiatives that promote neighborhood improvement, community engagement, and cultural vibrancy. This grant program aligns with the broader mission of the CRC to strengthen connections within the community and enhance relationships among residents by supporting grassroots initiatives. The SEEN Grant Program is open to residents of the Worthington School District, including individuals, neighborhood groups, and both formal and informal community associations. Special consideration is given to new or emerging community organizations, provided they demonstrate a clear plan to support local neighborhoods or the Worthington community as a whole. However, businesses are explicitly ineligible to apply. Projects must be based on public property and demonstrate meaningful community impact. Cultural event proposals must show strong matching support—grant funds may not exceed 30% of the total event budget—and must contribute to long-term cultural and community vitality, rather than serving solely as entertainment. Funding for the 2026 cycle totals $4,000. The CRC accepts applications on a rolling basis and reviews them quarterly, with deadlines at the end of each calendar quarter: March 31, June 30, September 30, and December 31. Applicants must submit a completed application form and all supporting materials either through the online portal or via email or postal mail to Riley Hoover at the City of Worthington. Applications are reviewed by the CRC immediately following each deadline, and award announcements are typically made by the middle of the following month. Grantees are required to use awarded funds within one calendar year of the grant date and must submit a signed Grant Agreement Form before receiving funds. A Project Completion Report, including photographs and proof of expenditures, must be submitted within 30 days of the project's completion, but no later than six months after receiving funds. In some cases, grantees may request a delay in disbursal of funds. Additionally, grantees may be asked to attend a CRC meeting to report on project outcomes or invite CRC members to observe how the funding was used. The selection committee evaluates applications based on several criteria: the extent to which the project fosters community connections, encourages volunteerism, strengthens partnerships, ensures sustainability beyond the initial funding period, and provides publicly accessible cultural events when applicable. Past recipients have undertaken projects such as building Little Free Pantries, launching disability-focused book pilot programs, and planting trees—each contributing in unique ways to community enrichment. The SEEN Grant is not renewable, but applicants may reapply in subsequent years for different projects. While 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations may apply, preference is given to those not already receiving City funding. The program is intentionally accessible to less formal groups, such as social media communities, grassroots efforts, youth groups, and scouting organizations, provided they outline their structure and long-term sustainability plans. This positions the SEEN Grant as a flexible and community-oriented seed funding initiative focused on fostering equitable neighborhood development in Worthington.

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