Spring 2024 grant cycle is open at Wheeler County Cultural & Heritage Coalition; apply by March 15

The Wheeler County Cultural & Heritage Coalition supports the preservation, celebration, and understanding of local and regional arts and cultural heritage. Applications for the spring 2024 grant cycle are now available for submission with a deadline of Friday, March 15, 2024. Grants of up to $2000 may be awarded depending on project needs and additional community support.

Grant Applications are available at Post Offices in Spray, Mitchell, and Fossil, in the Wheeler County Courthouse - Community Development office, and on-line at www.wheelercountyoregon.com/community-development.

Local non-profit organizations, educational institutions, community groups, or community event/program organizer(s) may apply for funding for projects that align with the mission to promote participation, celebration or education in cultural and/or heritage focused activities. Proposals will be evaluated by a volunteer committee for the following criteria: Relevance: How well does your project address cultural and heritage aspects? Is it community-focused? Feasibility: Is the project realistic in terms of scope, timeline, and resources? Impact: What positive outcomes will your project achieve? How will it benefit the community? Collaborations: What partnerships or collaborations enhance the project's success and financial needs?

In 2023 grant funds supported five projects in Wheeler County. These projects helped facilitate the expansion of non-profit community radio station KFSL; supported The Spray General Store programs, helped make possible the first art show in the community of Spray, a local street market series, increasing community engagement and exposure to local makers, creators, and artisans. In Mitchell, grant funding supported The Painted Hills Festival and the production an observational documentary focused on previously untold local cowboy stories, examining how the livestock industry and it's gritty colorful characters has shaped Central Oregon and Wheeler County.

Applications must be received by Friday, March 15, 2024, at 5pm. In person at the Wheeler County Courthouse, Community Development, Mail: PO Box 447 Fossil, OR 97830 or email [email protected]. Contact for more information: 541-763-3200.