The Community Watershed Stewardship Program (CWSP) is pleased to announce that grants of up to $10,000 are available to support projects that improve neighborhoods and communities while also improving the health of Portland’s watersheds.

Application deadline is March 29, 2013*. Application materials and information are at www.portlandonline.com/bes/stewardship

Projects that can be funded include:

• Neighborhood safety, health and livability
• Youth leadership and skills development
• Community gardens
• Art and education
• Restoration and cleanup
• Stormwater Management

Last summer, Groundwork Portland used CWSP funds to organize a leadership program for a dozen teens from underrepresented communities. These young people worked on a variety of environmentally-focused projects, including bioswales, ecoroofs and natural area restoration. They received stipends for their work and gained valuable experience in green jobs fields. PSU’s Institute for Sustainable Solutions recently published a brief article about CWSP and Groundwork’s project.

How to apply

Community-based organizations, businesses, student and school groups, faith communities, neighborhood associations and other groups are eligible to apply. Projects must be carried out in the City of Portland. Applications are due by Friday, March 29, 2013 at 4:00 p.m. 

For help developing ideas for a project and putting together an application, and for application materials and more information: www.portlandonline.com/bes/stewardship, call 503-823-7917 or email shannon.jamison@portlandoregon.gov.

CWSP encourages applications for projects that involve the leadership and meaningful participation of people of color, immigrants, elders, youth, those with disabilities, low-income residents, and other underrepresented groups.

*Grant awards subject to approval of 2013-14 budget.