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Better your corner of KCMO with the Neighborhood Empowerment Grant

A new round of funding means local neighborhood associations have a chance at $20,000 each for community projects.

Picture of a brick home in a neighborhood located in Hospital Hill near downtown Kansas City

The Hospital Hill neighborhood is lush with summer greenery. | Photo by KCtoday

Whether you’re hyped about sharing your neighborhood or banding together to build something better, we’ve got one more way for community members to take part in their corner of KC: the Neighborhood Empowerment Grant.

What is it?

The program offers funding to Kansas City, Missouri neighborhood groups for projects geared towards quality of life improvements. If it falls under repairs, upgrades, safety, or beautification, it’s probably eligible.

In the first round alone, the Neighborhood Services Department dispersed $260,000 between 26 neighborhoods. Now, the program is back for a second run... to the tune of $400,000.

Who can take part?

Not-for-profit neighborhood groups registered with the City of Kansas City + the State of Missouri.

“But I’m part of a neighborhood council, does that count?” As long as the group is registered with the proper entities, any manner of neighborhood association, homeowners association, community association, community council, and neighborhood council are eligible for up to $20,000.

How to apply

Determine what your community needs + submit an application between now and Friday, June 21. Need ideas? The Blue Valley Neighborhood Association used its $10,000 grant for crime reduction strategies, beautification for their neighborhood garden, and essential home repairs for elderly + underserved residents.

Locals looking for more info can join the city’s free virutal Lunch and Learn on Thursday, May 23 at 11 a.m.

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