[Archived] Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities Launches Community Matching Fund

For Immediate Release: July 7, 2016

The Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities (RPCA) established the Community Matching Fund (Fund) with the approval of the FY 2017-FY 2026 Capital Improvement Budget and it is part of RPCA's PARKnership Program, a program that oversees partnerships for the development, design, construction and operation of recreational and park facilities and/or programs.

The Fund promotes collaborative partnerships among City of Alexandria community organizations by providing matching 1:1 dollars for groups that propose fundraising for park and recreation improvement projects. The Fund fosters public/private partnerships and cultivates innovative ways for residents to have a greater stake in improving the park and recreation facilities that they use. These partnerships will also provide opportunities for developing positive relationships between the City and the community.

In FY17, RPCA will give 1:1 matching award in an amount up to $25,000, which allows a minimum of two selected proposals. Awards may vary given in any amount between $5,000 (for project totals of $10,000) to $25,000 (for project totals for $50,000).

Any community group that lives and/or works in the City of Alexandria can apply for the matching fund. The group must demonstrate in their proposal a capacity to build a stronger and healthier community through park and recreation facility improvements. Proposals must show that the project will:

• Provide a public benefit, free and open to all members of the public;
  
• Be located on City owned parks property or recreational facility;
  
• Emphasize self-help, with project ideas initiated, planned and implemented by the neighbors and community members impacted by the project; and
  
• Demonstrate the ability to raise the community match within one year.

Starting July 20, RPCA will accept proposals through September 1from City of Alexandria based community groups for park and/or recreation improvement projects. For information on how to apply, visit Community Matching Fund or contact Dana Wedeles, Urban Planner III, at Dana.Wedeles@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.5491.

The City of Alexandria is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. To request a reasonable accommodation or to request materials in an alternative format, call Dana Wedeles at 703-746-5491 or e-mail dana.wedeles@alexandriava.gov.