The Foundation is now accepting applications for its Creative Community Engagement Grant Program. The grant program is one element of the Creative Worcester Initiative, which the Foundation has launched in partnership with the Barr Foundation and its Creative Commonwealth Initiative.

With support of five community foundations in five cities across Massachusetts, Creative Commonwealth aims to help engage donors with local artists and cultural organizations in new and transformative ways. Within Creative Worcester, the Creative Community Engagement Grant Program is intended to direct both financial and knowledge resources to Worcester's non-profit cultural organizations.

These resources are intended to empower non-profits to develop innovative ways to increase engagement with diverse communities that represent Worcester's changing demographics. Funds may be used for, but are not limited to: operating support, capital needs, audience engagement efforts, or other areas where the organization feels it will improve its ability to engage Worcester's diverse communities.

To be considered, applicants must be tax-exempt, nonprofit organizations as recognized by IRS code 501(c)(3) serving the Worcester area. Applicants must meet a variety of criteria to ensure project aligns with the Foundation's vision for community engagement. Organizations chosen to receive Creative Community Engagement grants will also be expected to meet other terms and conditions, including attendance to bi-monthly learning sessions.

Applications must be received online by May 18, 2018. For more information or to RSVP to the orientation, please contact Jonathan Cohen at jcohen@greaterworcester.org or 508-755-0980 with questions or concerns.