More than 200 non-profit organizations in Alberta are kicking off the new year with a running start.
The Government of Alberta announced grant funding of $11.7 million to 226 non-profit organizations, with the funds set to help build community spaces, experiences and services.
The funding comes through two streams: the Community Facility Enhancement Program, which helps to upgrade or build public-use facilities, and Community Initiatives Program, which supports the arts, cultural projects and other community programs.
In Foothills County, the following organizations will benefit from the newly-announced round of funding:
• Foothills Search and Rescue Society, Diamond Valley – $45,254 (to purchase search and rescue vehicles)
• Christ the Redeemer Catholic Separate School Division, Okotoks – $125,000 (for playground construction at St. Mary's School)
• Oilfields Curling Club, Diamond Valley – $26,780 (for facility upgrade)
• Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 71, High River – $8,375 (for facility upgrade)
• Heritage Heights School Fundraising Association, Foothills County – $125,000 (for playground redevelopment at Heritage Heights School)
• The Leighton Foundation, Foothills County – $39,650 (for Leighton Art Centre facility upgrade)
In total, the provincial government is providing $2.8 million in funding to 80 non-profits through the Community Initiatives Program and $8.9 million to help upgrade or build 146 public-use facilities across Alberta through the Community Facility Enhancement Program.
The two grant programs support hundreds of projects across Alberta every year, including community parks enhancements, museum exhibits, arts centre programming, music and cultural festivals, heritage events and social programs that improve life for Albertans.
“We are strengthening our vital non-profit sector that improves community spaces and spirit to make sure Alberta continues to be the best province to live, work and raise a family. Alberta’s government is proud to support these projects that have a real impact in the daily life of Albertans," said Tanya Fir, minister of arts, culture and status of women.
This fiscal year, the Government of Alberta has distributed more than $24 million through 474 grants, of which nearly half go to rural communities, according to a news release.
Foothills funding recipients in 2024 included the Okotoks Arts Council, Okotoks Film Society, Highwood Memorial Centre, Sheep Creek Arts Council and Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area.
