$450K in grants for nature-related projects now available via foundation

The San Diego Foundation kicked off the 2015 “Opening the Outdoors” grant cycle with $450,000 available to nonprofits proposing community-driven projects that develop an interconnected network of natural areas, gathering places and trails across the county so that the outdoors is easily accessible to all San Diegans.

An informational webinar for grant seekers will be held from 3-5 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20.

Spanning the beaches to the mountains, an impressive 45 percent of San Diego County is defined as “green space,” yet not all San Diegans have convenient access. Of the $450,000 in grants available, up to $50,000 is available per grant (or up to $75,000 for proposals in which three or more organizations collaborate). Proposed projects may include efforts to:

• Increase trails, signage, and natural amenities in neighborhoods where resources are deficient (hiking/biking/horse trails, picnic areas, gathering places, etc.);

• Encourage kids from park-poor communities to engage with the natural environment through physical or educational activities;

• Connect and protect nature through conservation/restoration/acquisition of key lands or building community support for relevant public policies or funding.

“Opening the Outdoors” is a San Diego Foundation program that advances The Foundation’s WELL (Work-Enjoy-Learn-Live) initiative. Past projects have resulted in the acquisition of more than 34,000 acres of critical natural habitats and green space, and more than 20,000 volunteers engaged in community outreach, advocacy and environment-based education programs. Find grant guidelines and the application at www.sdfoundation.org/Grants.

The application deadline is noon Thursday, Feb. 12. For information and webinar login, contact Emily Guevara at emilyg@sdfoundation.org or 619-814-1345.