Matching Grants Program Accepting Applications

Durham County Open Space Matching Grants              Program Accepting Applications       The Matching Grants Program of the Durham Open Space and Trails Commission is accepting applications from nonprofit organizations in Durham City and County. The grants are to assist nonprofit organizations in preserving open space lands and promoting new or improved recreational opportunities for citizens. Eligible projects include, but are not limited to:   · Assistance to a local Land Conservancy organization in acquiring an environmentally significant natural area in Durham County. · Assistance to a local Scout Troop to clear and build a trail on publicly owned lands. · Assistance to a Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) to upgrade play equipment at a local elementary school that is used by the community. · Assistance to a local recreation organization to build a disc golf or other recreation course. · Assistance to a local organization previously funded by a Matching Grant to add additional improvements or recreation opportunities to an existing location. Major changes to the program for FY 14-15 include: · A 24 month period to complete any project · Organizations with an existing project are eligible to apply An informational session will be held on Tuesday, September 16 from 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm at the Durham County Main Library located at 300 N. Roxboro St.  This session will be held in the 3rd Floor Conference Room. The application deadline is 5:00pm on Friday, November 14, 2014. For questions about the grant process, Contact Bo Gattis, Matching Grants Administrator at (919) 560-0012, or email matchinggrants@dconc.gov. For project specific questions contact Brendan Moore, Open Space Land Manager, at (919) 560-7957 or email brmoore@dconc.gov.   Grant guidelines and applications are available online at http://budget.dconc.gov/index.aspx?page=117