Program: Neighborhood Greening Grants Program
Funder: Syracuse Parks Conservancy, in cooperation with the Central New York Community Foundation and the Syracuse Department of Parks, Recreation, and Youth Programs
Award Details: Grants of up to $2000 are awarded to support small, targeted initiatives that improve communities through park and recreation center stewardship. Funded items can include plant materials, park signs, maintenance tools, playground mulch, recreational activity equipment, and other needed supplies.
Eligibility: Locally led neighborhood associations, schools, park associations, faith-based organizations, and other community groups in the city of Syracuse. Applicants must have permission from the property owner and/or Department of Parks. Formal tax-exempt status as a 501(c)(3) organization is required. If not a formal 501(c)(3) organization, applicants must have a fiscal agent agreement with an organization with 501(c)(3) status.

Sample Projects: Community garden and rain garden development and improvement; Park clean-up; Beautification of neighborhood entrances; Trail development; Vacant lot cleanup and restoration projects.

Qualifying Projects: Projects that occur in Syracuse on vacant lots or property owned by the Syracuse Department of Parks; Projects that involve volunteers in the implementation and maintenance; Projects that have not already taken place; Projects proposed by groups with open Neighborhood Greening Grants will not be accepted until a final report has been submitted.

Non-Qualifying Projects: Support for operating expenses (including fundraisers); Loans or assistance to individuals; Projects that benefit properties owned by private organizations, private schools, businesses, religious institutions or individuals.

Review Process: An Advisory Committee reviews applications based on criteria such as volunteer participation in planning and implementation, development of leadership skills among community participants, impact on the environment and community, feasibility (accomplishments, timeline, budget), and neighborhood financial need.

Awards: Grants are awarded on a rolling basis in amounts not exceeding $2000 per grant.