The Community Placemaking program, funded by Metro in Oregon, aims to address community challenges and opportunities through creative, arts-based, and equity-focused initiatives. This program is designed to empower community members, particularly those from historically marginalized backgrounds, to engage in projects that enhance their connections to each other and to their local environments. The funding available ranges from five thousand to twenty-five thousand dollars, with a total of up to four hundred fifty thousand dollars allocated for grants. The deadline for applications is October 4, 2024.

The primary purpose of the Community Placemaking program is to strengthen the bonds between individuals and the places they inhabit. The program encourages projects that address specific community challenges or opportunities, foster interaction among residents, and utilize arts and cultural activities to create a sense of belonging. Additionally, the program emphasizes equity by ensuring that people of color and other marginalized groups have the resources and power to influence their neighborhoods. This is achieved through initiatives that are led by or supported by these communities, thereby enhancing cultural expression and community assets.

Funding from the Community Placemaking program can be used for a variety of projects that align with its objectives. Eligible activities include those that promote community engagement through arts and culture, enhance local identity, and build partnerships among community members and organizations. Importantly, no matching funds are required for applicants, making it more accessible for various organizations to participate.

Eligibility for the grant is primarily focused on community-based organizations with tax-exempt nonprofit status. Nonprofits that are not registered as 501(c)(3) entities should consult with the grant manager to confirm their eligibility. Individuals or community groups without nonprofit status must partner with a tax-exempt fiscal sponsor, such as a certified nonprofit or public agency, to apply. Public agencies must also involve community partners in their project implementation. Notably, past recipients of the grant who funded an event are not eligible to reapply in the year following their award.

The application process requires detailed submissions that demonstrate how the proposed project aligns with the program's objectives. Applicants should be prepared to answer specific questions regarding their project’s impact, community involvement, and partnership strategies. Evaluation criteria will focus on the project's potential to foster community connections, promote equity, and enhance local culture.

The timeline for the grant application is straightforward, with the submission deadline set for October 4, 2024. Interested applicants should ensure that their projects take place within the Urban Growth Boundary of the Portland region, as this is a requirement for funding eligibility. For further inquiries, applicants can contact Dana Lucero at the provided email or phone number for assistance.

Overall, the Community Placemaking program represents a significant opportunity for organizations and community groups in the Portland area to secure funding for projects that promote arts, culture, and community engagement, particularly among historically marginalized populations.