Do you know how the playground equipment at the park down the street was purchased? Or the new sign leading visitors to a local landmark? How about initial money for a festival? In any community, chances are that someone, or a group of individuals, wrote a grant proposal and received funding to help with the project.
Grants are a way the government funds ideas and projects to provide public services and stimulate the local economy. Grants can come from many other sources as well like local foundations, corporations, or local government. K-State Research and Extension’s Community Vitality Team offers grant writing training for local communities because grants are an important component of sustainable funding.
Individuals and community groups can learn more about writing successful grant proposals at an online workshop planned by K-State Research and Extension in Southwind District on Feb. 6 and Feb. 8 from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Nancy Daniels, a community vitality specialist with K-State Research and Extension and the author of many grant proposals, will present the program. The cost to attend is $60.
“This workshop is for everyone, whether they’ve never written a proposal before and have no idea where to start, to those who have experience but are looking for ways to improve their approach,” Daniels said. “The magic that happens in a local community when people find out they don’t have to wait to get something done, that they can do it themselves, is incredible.”
Participants also learn from each other, she said, adding that even experienced grant writers pick up tips and are reenergized after coming together with peers in their communities. Participants are encouraged to bring their grants or grant ideas to share.
Workshop topics include identifying sources of data for community needs, where to find grants and practicing the elements: Problem, Outcomes, Activities, Evaluation and Budget.
For more information and registration assistance, contact Community Vitality Agent, Amanda Clasen at [email protected] or at (620) 244-3826.
