Kansas City, Missouri – The Kansas City Neighborhood Services Department is excited to announce the launch of the third round of the Neighborhood Empowerment Grant program. Local neighborhood groups can apply for a portion of $300,000 in funds allocated to community enhancement projects beginning December 13, 2024. Offering up to $20,000 per grant, the application window will stay open until January 24, 2025.
With around $870,000 distributed over more than 60 neighborhood organizations in past rounds, the Neighborhood Empowerment Grant program has been a vital tool for local communities from its beginnings. From little house repairs and school supplies for underprivileged neighbors to more large-scale neighborhood safety and beautification projects, these funds have enabled an extensive range of programs.
“This program remains a cornerstone for building stronger communities. By supporting public safety strategies, neighborhood identity, and quality-of-life improvements, we continue to prioritize the needs of Kansas City’s residents,” said sponsor Ryana Parks Shaw.
Grant eligibility is limited to not-for-profit Neighborhood Associations registered under either the City of Kansas City or the State of Missouri, or will collaborate with an already registered group. Applications must be in good standing, provide a list of their board of directors or leadership team, and have completely used any past grant money from this program in order to qualify.
The funding seeks to assist initiatives improving community involvement, neighborhood identification, public safety, quality of life, neighborhood development, code violation correction, and youth programming. Every one of these areas of concentration is meant to encourage citizens’ active involvement, celebrate cultural diversity, increase safety, and offer required infrastructural enhancements.
The impact has been notable in past funding cycles. While the second round paid $607,620 to 35 groups, the first round saw $260,000 awarded among 26 organizations. Among the recipients, the Blue Valley Neighborhood Association is renowned for its thorough application of the $20,000 grant it received, which supported varied direct service costs including minor house repairs and provision of basic goods to residents.
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The Neighborhood Services Department will set up a virtual “Lunch and Learn” session on January 9, 2025, from noon to 1:30 p.m., to help prospective applicants. This event seeks to offer more details regarding project eligibility and the application procedure. On the day of the event, interested parties may access the virtual meeting by clicking here.
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These grants are crucial in enabling areas to take control of their development as Kansas City expands, therefore guaranteeing a better, more unified future for everyone.
