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. This time around, they upped the ante big-time... to the tune of ~$600,000.
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 homeowners association, community association, and community council are eligible for up to $20,000.
Which groups were funded?
This latest round of funding split $607,620 between 35 recipients, covering all corners of the city and addressing a range of concerns.
“Neighborhood Improvement” was the most popular category with 13 projects, “safety” was next at five — the Historic West Bottoms Association was the only group who earmarked its $20,000 grant for “trees.”
“We’re working to eliminate blight, areas that are prone to dumping or other things not favorable to property owners, residents, and businesses.” Tom Esselman, President of the Historic West Bottoms Association, told KCtoday.
As the brick-laden landscape evolves from its industrial origins, the neighborhood’s status as an urban oasis hinges on a return to nature.
What exactly does that mean for the West Bottoms? A serious green space makeover around 9th and Mulberry, particularly the park near Forester Viaduct + the walking path by public sculpture Confluence.
Know how you want to improve your community? Stay tuned, we’ll be sure to share when the next round of grant applications go live.
