The Community Foundation of the Ozarks is announcing the 2025 Everyone Outdoors Grant Program, aimed at enhancing the connection between Springfield-Greene County residents and the natural resources available in the Ozarks. This grant program is designed to support projects that engage residents, particularly those from low-income and high-density neighborhoods, in outdoor community programming. The total funding available for this initiative is $66,000, with individual grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. The program is focused on projects that primarily impact residents of Greene County, Missouri.

The purpose of the Everyone Outdoors Grant Program is to foster community engagement with the outdoors through various innovative projects. Ideal proposals may include educational environmental programs, the expansion of staff time for existing outdoor initiatives, the purchase of outdoor equipment for public use, and enhancements to outdoor neighborhood gathering spaces. The Community Foundation of the Ozarks encourages creative ideas that promote outdoor community placemaking and aim to improve access to natural resources for local residents.

Eligible applicants for this grant must be nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status, government entities, school districts, or tax-exempt faith-based organizations. The program prioritizes projects that directly benefit Greene County residents, particularly those in underserved communities. This focus on inclusivity ensures that the grant supports initiatives that can make a significant impact on the local population.

Submission requirements for the grant include a completed application form, which can be accessed through the Community Foundation of the Ozarks' website. Applicants will need to provide detailed information about their proposed projects, including objectives, expected outcomes, and a budget outlining how the funds will be utilized. It is essential for applicants to clearly articulate how their projects will engage the community and enhance outdoor access.

The evaluation criteria for grant applications will consider the project's potential impact on the community, the feasibility of the proposed activities, and the clarity of the project's objectives. The Community Foundation of the Ozarks aims to support projects that demonstrate a strong commitment to engaging Greene County residents with the outdoors and that can effectively utilize the funding provided.

The application deadline for the 2025 Everyone Outdoors Grant Program is November 7, 2024. Interested applicants are encouraged to prepare their proposals in advance to ensure they meet the submission requirements and deadlines. For further inquiries, applicants can contact Bridget Dierks at the Community Foundation of the Ozarks via email or phone for additional guidance and support.