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The Rhode Island Foundation is offering local libraries, neighborhood groups and nonprofit organizations grants of up to $10,000 to fund proposals that bring people together as a community. Sept. 26 is the deadline to apply.

“As Rhode Island’s only community foundation, we are dedicated to strengthening these bonds and creating equitable, thriving communities by supporting projects that give neighbors opportunities to come together over common experiences,” said David N. Cicilline, the Foundation's president and CEO.

This is the tenth consecutive year the Foundation has offered similar grants. Last year’s recipients include the Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council in Providence, the South County Museum in Narragansett, Conexion Latina Newport, Bread of Life in Woonsocket, Cape Verdean Cultural & Education Program in East Providence, the Empowerment Factory in Pawtucket, House of Hope in Warwick, the Greenville Public Library and the Westerly Historical Society.

“The health of a community’s civic and cultural life is vital to its success. Strong connections among neighbors, meaningful relationships between people and public institutions, and vibrant interactions with the places we call home are closely tied to a range of positive outcomes—from improved physical and mental health to economic resilience and adaptability in times of crisis,” said Cicilline.

This year’s program targets resident-led, community-making efforts that foster social networks, strengthen lasting relationships, elevate shared public spaces as vital community anchors, help identify goals, solve problems or make group decisions; and celebrate traditions that connect people and promote volunteerism and arts and cultural activities.

To be eligible, proposals must deliver visible results within 12 months, have lasting impact, be accessible to the broader community, be relevant and beneficial to a specific neighborhood or community and leverage community resources such as cash matches, volunteer time, donated space or other in-kind contributions.

While both new initiatives and enhancements to existing projects are eligible, the grants are intended to support one-time costs and expenses. Applicants will not be eligible for renewed funding for the same project in future years.

Capital campaigns, endowment funds, for-profit entities, fundraising events, individuals, on-going operational support, lobbying or political efforts and non-secular purposes are not eligible. For more information about applying for a Neighborhood Grant, click HERE.

The Rhode Island Foundation is the largest and most comprehensive funder of nonprofit organizations in Rhode Island. Through civic leadership, fundraising and grant-making activities, together with neighbors and partners, the Foundation is helping to create progress that lasts.