Neighborhood Engagement Grants awarded

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (ADAMS) – The City of Fort Wayne, in partnership with Foellinger Foundation, recently awarded nine Neighborhood Engagement Grants, totaling $40,000.

“We are excited to see the breadth of projects brought forward by our neighborhood leaders,” said Sarah Strimmenos, Foellinger Foundation president and CEO. “They know their neighbors best, and we are proud to provide the funding so they can bring these engagement opportunities to life and improve their communities.”

The following was released:

The grant program, supported by a Special Opportunity Grant from Foellinger Foundation, provides funding to help registered neighborhood associations host events and activities that bring residents, businesses, and organizations together to strengthen neighborhood connections. Grants range from a minimum of $2,000 up to $5,000, and support activities like block parties, educational workshops, neighborhood clean-up events, and social gatherings.

“We’re grateful Foellinger Foundation is investing in our work to build strong neighborhoods,” said Dan Baisden, director of the Department of Neighborhoods. “Many of the grant recipients are just beginning to establish or re-establish their neighborhood associations and these funds will encourage residents to get involved in their neighborhoods and develop positive working relationships with one another.”

Neighborhood associations receiving awards include:

Beacon Woods Neighborhood – Hosting a neighborhood block party, which will provide an opportunity for residents to connect, celebrate the neighborhood’s diversity, and foster a sense of belonging.
Bloomingdale Neighborhood – Hosting a series of community engagement events in collaboration with area neighborhoods to engage the community in projects to improve pedestrian and bike safety.
Crestwood Neighborhood – Helping develop the first Crestwood block party, which aims to celebrate community pride and promote connection with neighbors through a free, family-friendly event.
Crown Colony – Hosting a Crown Colony Fun Day with the theme “Who is your neighbor” where residents are encouraged to learn more about their neighbors and neighborhood association with a family-oriented, fun event.
East Central Neighborhood – Hosting a series of inclusive, family-friendly events to deepen community relationships, including a family movie night, family game night, holiday party and a neighborhood clean-up event.
Hamilton Neighborhood – Hosting the Hamilton Halloween Bash in October at Franklin School Park. The Bash has been the neighborhood’s biggest event since it was reactivated and includes opportunities for kids and families to gather for a safe event with food, door prizes, a costume contest and activities for all ages.
Harvester Neighborhood – Hosting the annual party in August where the association aims to connect with neighbors, celebrate accomplishments and learn about residents’ priorities.
Northside Neighborhood – Celebrating 50 years, the grant will support the anniversary celebration honoring the neighborhood’s rich history with historical exhibits, a panel discussion and performances by local artists.
Packard Area Planning Alliance – Hosting a community celebration marking the opening of the newly redeveloped Packard Park later this year. The event will serve both as a celebration and a platform for neighborhood connection featuring food and music as well as engagement activities.