[Archived] FY 2018 Community Matching Fund Application Process - Deadline Extended to April 30, 2017

For Immediate Release: April 14, 2017

(First Release: March 1, 2017)

Established in FY 2017, the Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities (RPCA) created the Community Matching Fund (Fund) to promote collaborative partnerships among City of Alexandria community organizations by providing matching 1:1 dollars to groups 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 they use. These partnerships provide opportunities for developing positive relationships between the City and the community. 

RPCA will accept proposals for Fiscal Year 2018 through April 30, 2017. A total of $100,000 in City matching funds is proposed for FY 2018. RPCA will give 1:1 matching award in an amount up to $25,000, which allows a minimum of four 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). The final funds available will be determined with the adoption of the FY 2018 Budget on May 4, 2017.

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.

Visit the Community Matching Fund website for information on how to apply. Staff will also hold a webinar on March 15 to review the application process and answer questions. To register for the webinar e-mail dana.wedeles@alexandriava.gov.

For additional information, contact Dana Wedeles 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 (VA Relay 711) or e-mail dana.wedeles@alexandriava.gov.