The District of Squamish will be outsourcing the administration of its community grants to the Squamish Community Foundation and the Squamish Arts Council.
A news release from the municipality said council endorsed a new policy that will enable non-profits community groups to administer grant funding and makes the process less political.
The District has entered into a four-year agreement with the two organizations, which will hand out grant money on behalf of council starting in 2021.
"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," said Mayor Karen Elliott in a news release.
Up until this point, council has been the entity responsible for giving out community grants.
Every year, various organizations would approach council and make their case as to why they deserved money. In each case, council would then make a decision as to how much money they would give.
However, during the last cycle of grants, council decided that in order to save time it would be a better idea to outsource this process.
"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, in the release.
"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 head of the Squamish Community Foundation also expressed enthusiasm about the arrangement.
"We are proud and excited to be working with the District of Squamish to distribute the annual Community Enhancement Grants," said 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.”
Applications will be open beginning early 2021. View the Community Grant Policy here. For more information about grant funding opportunities go to squamishartscouncil.com and squamishfoundation.com.
