Applications now open for community foundation grants

By Rob Vogt

The Community Foundation of Lethbridge and Southwestern Alberta is now accepting grant applications for the Community Priorities, Henry S. Varley Fund for Rural Life, and Youth in Action Grants Programs.
The foundation issued a release on Monday explaining the Community Priorities Fund, which was established in 1966 and exists due to donours who wish to see their gifts support the needs of the day, awarded more than $448,000 in 2024 through its two calls for funding.
This spring, the fund will distribute $320,000 to charities and other qualified donees, supporting their important work throughout the region. Applications are due by 4 p.m. on Monday, March 17, 2025.
The Henry S. Varley Fund for Rural life was established through a bequest of Pincher Creek area rancher Bill Long to honour his uncle Henry Varley and the family’s ranching heritage.
This fund supports projects and initiatives from community organizations committed to sustaining a high quality of life in rural Southwestern Alberta. It will support the community with more than $155,000 this spring.
Applications are due by 4 p.m. on Monday, March 17, 2025.
The Youth in Action Grants program funds projects that are initiated, led, and organized by individuals, or a group, 25 years of age or younger, in collaboration with a charity or school.
The goal of this program is to empower youth in Southwestern Alberta to create a project that will have a positive impact on their community.
The application deadline for Youth in Action grants is 4 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 28, 2025.
“We are excited to see the various charities that come forward seeking funding”, said Charleen Davidson, executive director of the foundation.
“It is an honour for us to be able to support their important initiatives,” she added, noting the foundation appreciates its donours for their continued generosity of the community through their work.
The Community Foundation’s Grants Coordinator, Caitlin Gajdostik, is available to answer questions regarding the grant application process, and can be reached at 1-403-328-5297 or grants@cflsa.ca.
Gajdostik will also be hosting a free grant information session on Thursday, Feb. 6, at 10 a.m. via Zoom.
Anyone interested in participating is asked to please RSVP to grants@cflsa.ca and the Zoom link will be sent to them upon registration confirmation.
More information on eligibility, funding criteria, and access to the grant applications can be found on the community foundation website www.cflsa.ca/grants.
Applicants must be a qualified donee under the Canada Revenue Agency, or apply in partnership with one.
All applications must be submitted online.