The Virginia Outdoors Foundation (VOF) is seeking applications for its Get Outdoors (GO) program to provide grants for projects that increase equitable access to safe open space in Virginia’s communities, in particular communities that have been inadequately served, overlooked, or harmed by unfair zoning, housing, and land-use practices or other systemic discrimination.

There are communities in Virginia that have been subject to discrimination because of race, ethnicity, income level, or other factors, which has resulted in less access to safe open space for recreation, education, and other uses. These communities may not have a high rate of land ownership, and therefore are unable to participate in traditional land conservation programs.

Some examples of costs that can be covered include planning, capacity building, and infrastructure. The intent of the program is to serve as a flexible, adaptable tool to be used to address communities’ needs. VOF seeks to ensure that all Virginians have access to safe open spaces that result in better health and a higher quality of life.

Funding Information

• VOF is making $250,000 available for the 2020-2021 grant round.
• Individual projects may receive no more than $25,000.
• The minimum grant amount is $500.

Eligibility Criteria

• GO grants may be awarded to state, local, regional, or tribal government entities, educational institutions, or non-profit organizations registered as tax-exempt under the Internal Revenue Service code.
• Federal governmental entities, for-profit entities, and individuals are not eligible at this time.

For more information, visit Get Outdoors Program.