Morale Booster Mini-Grant
A large part of RNeighbors’ mission is to provide resources for neighbors in Rochester, Minnesota, to get out of their homes and interact. COVID-19 has altered our mission to support neighborhoods, residents, and community partners in pandemic response efforts. As we all self-isolate for everyone’s safety, now more than ever it is important to re-imagine neighborhood activities, cultivating joy and positivity in this uncertain time. This mini-grant is an opportunity to utilize and highlight the fun and talents of all ages in your neighborhood, while maintaining proper social distancing.
- Grants reimburse up to $200 in costs to support an activity that will help the neighborhood community weather this pandemic.
- All neighborhoods are eligible, need not to be a part of a registered neighborhood association.
- We encourage you to collaborate with a local creative such as an artist, musician, or writer, giving work to those who need it. If you need contacts email RNeighbors.
- Proper social distancing is required for grants. Activities must align with Minnesota Department of Health Guidance and Governor Walz Executive Orders.
- Grant Ideas
- Supplies for signs of encouragement or banners including poster board, sidewalk chalk, markers, fabric, etc.
- Printing and postage for a cheerful postcard mailing
- Hiring a local musician or DJ for a neighborhood dance party (everyone dances in their own driveway)
- Contracting a local artist to work with the neighbors on some sort of public art that could be done with proper social distancing, but enjoyed by all
- Work with a local designer to produce a neighborhood logo and have t-shirts printed
- Determine a neighborhood reporter to assemble a weekly newsletter about residents
- Organize a street-wide or neighborhood-wide contest such as a scavenger hunt or costume parade that the grant could fund flyers and incentives for participation
- Work on a “playborhood” concept and create an atmosphere for unstructured outdoor play. This article identifies steps that almost any neighborhood can take to promote connections and safe play.
- Grants applications are due Monday, April 27, at 5 pm. Applications will be reviewed in 48 hours and applicants will be notified promptly to allow for quick implementation.
- Half of the grant award can be dispersed up front to allow payment for services or supplies.
- Project must be completed by June 30, including a Grant Summary with expense receipts for reimbursement. We’d love to see and share photos to spread the good news around Rochester.
We look forward to helping you implement your ideas for cultivating positivity in your neighborhood.
Please keep in mind at this time many are out of work and in survival mode. If you have neighbors in need of essential supplies, food, or other services please connect them with this online community resource for local organizations that can assist.
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