The Large Community Grant program is managed by the City of Rockaway Beach and offers financial support to nonprofit and not-for-profit organizations that serve the local community. This program is designed to provide funding for projects that enhance the quality of life for residents, particularly through efforts that promote health, education, social welfare, and community engagement. Organizations may apply for grants ranging from $5,000 to $20,000, with the funding intended to support a range of initiatives that can include educational, cultural, social, recreational, and health services.

Eligible applicants for the Large Community Grant include nonprofit and not-for-profit organizations that are focused on improving the Rockaway Beach community. However, applicants must not have any outstanding or incomplete grants with the City of Rockaway Beach and must have fully closed out all previous grants before applying. Projects eligible for funding can include programs aimed at providing healthy meals, active living initiatives, health services, literacy programs, youth development, and long-lasting facility improvements.

The application period for this grant opens on February 3, 2025, and closes on April 3, 2025, at 12:00 pm. The review process will begin with the Planning Commission's evaluation of applications on April 17, 2025, followed by the City Council's decision on awards during their meeting on May 14, 2025. Grant recipients will be notified by May 22, 2025, and contracts will be sent to successful applicants. The projects funded by this grant must be completed within 18 months of the City Council's award decision, with a final project deadline of November 12, 2026. The final report, including a Project Expense Worksheet and Grant Close Out Form, must be submitted by November 26, 2026.

Applicants are encouraged to describe how their proposed projects contribute to building a healthy, inclusive, charitable, and equitable community. These qualities are key to the City's mission to improve the well-being of all Rockaway Beach residents. Projects that prioritize community engagement and collaboration are particularly valued. However, projects aimed at tourism, political activities, or commercial ventures are not eligible for funding under this program. The City also runs separate programs for businesses seeking support for building improvements or marketing needs.

The evaluation criteria for the grant focus on four key areas: promoting a healthy community, fostering an inclusive community, supporting charitable initiatives, and encouraging equity within the community. Each application will be scored based on these factors, and the City Council will make funding decisions based on the rankings and the overall impact of the projects. Assistance is available for applicants who need guidance with their submissions, as long as they contact the Grant Manager at least 14 days before the application deadline.