New Community Grant Policy endorsed by Council

Squamish Community Foundation and Squamish Arts Council to administer community grants 

District of Squamish Council has endorsed a Community Grant Policy that will enable non-profit community groups to administer grant funding in our community, therefore creating a streamlined, non-political approach to the overall granting process. The District has subsequently entered a four-year agreement with the Squamish Community Foundation and Squamish Arts Council to manage and distribute grant funds on behalf of Council beginning in 2021.

Prior to the new policy, the District of Squamish accepted Community Enhancement Grant applications from not-for-profit organizations in Squamish once a year for grants to be considered in the following year's budget. Under the new policy, applications will be accepted by the Squamish Community Foundation and Squamish Arts Council. 

"Community Grants have the ability to support vulnerable citizens, youth, arts and enhance vibrancy, culture and connectedness in our community, and we are grateful for Squamish Community Foundation’s and Squamish Arts Council's leadership and commitment to investing in projects and initiatives that enrich the experiences of all of our citizens," says District of Squamish Mayor Karen Elliott. 

"The Squamish Arts Council is excited to continue the administration of funding dedicated to arts and culture in Squamish," says Squamish Arts Council Executive Director, Amy Liebenberg. "Last year we received applications for funding of $200,000 and so we know there is a desire for artists and community groups to connect and express themselves through their innovative programs. We look forward to the next round of applications, and to be able to select more, and larger projects for funding."

The new policy supports the five goals of the District of Squamish Official Community Plan: Liveable, Healthy, Engaged, Connected and Resilient. Funding will be awarded to non-profit or charitable organizations that propose to enhance the lives of local citizens through the following: 

• Arts and culture; 
• Community and neighbourhood events; 
• Decolonization and reconciliation initiatives; 
• Intergenerational programming; 
• Neighbourhood connectivity; 
• Public space activation; 
• Environmental stewardship;
• Social wellbeing; or
• Youth-led initiatives.  

"We are proud and excited to be working with the District of Squamish to distribute the annual Community Enhancement Grants," says Squamish Community Foundation Executive Director Karen Clarke. "The Squamish Community Foundation looks forward to supporting our local charitable partners further and deepening our relations with more Squamish non-profit organizations. We appreciate this opportunity to serve the community of Squamish.” 

December 14, 2020