[William Penn Foundation](https://williampennfoundation.org)

Recent awards for this objective have totaled nearly $2 million across 7 grants; typical award size and duration may vary by project.

Supports community-driven planning and implementation of green spaces in Philadelphia and Camden to improve health, equity, and neighborhood engagement by 2035.

--- ## Description This grant opportunity aims to fund the development and implementation of at least six community-driven greening plans in Philadelphia and Camden by 2035. The initiative emphasizes authentic community engagement, particularly from residents of neighborhoods of color and lower-income areas, to expand and improve public green spaces such as parks, lots, sidewalks, and gardens. The goal is to foster healthier, safer, and more equitable neighborhoods through increased access to green space, improved air quality, reduced crime, and enhanced community well-being. The William Penn Foundation encourages organizations to propose innovative and effective ways to build trust, engagement, and a sense of ownership among local residents. --- ## Due Dates - **Anticipated RFP Cycles:** - RFP opens: September 2025 | Deadline: October 2025 | Board review: February 2026 - RFP opens: December 2025 | Deadline: January 2026 | Board review: April 2026 - Subsequent cycles projected through 2027 *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Recent funding for this objective totals approximately $2 million across 7 grants since 2024. - Award sizes and durations are not strictly defined and depend on project scope and impact. - Overhead or general expenses are included as a set percentage of the project budget. --- ## Eligibility - Open to nonprofit organizations, especially those with strong community ties in Philadelphia and Camden. - Proposals should demonstrate authentic community engagement and leadership, particularly from neighborhoods of color and lower-income communities. - Projects must advance the Foundation’s objective of expanding and improving green spaces through community-driven planning and implementation. --- ## Application Process - **Step 1:** Review the [Community Greening Plans objective](https://williampennfoundation.org/objective/community-greening-plans) and [program area](https://williampennfoundation.org/program/environment-and-public-space). - **Step 2:** Monitor the [Funding Opportunities page](https://williampennfoundation.org/funding/funding-opportunities) for RFP release dates. - **Step 3:** Create an account and apply via the [William Penn Foundation Grants Portal](https://wpf.my.site.com/grantee/s/login/). No email applications are accepted. - **Step 4:** Submit a written application, including a project budget. - **Step 5:** Applications are reviewed by Foundation staff; select applicants participate in a site visit. - **Step 6:** Recommendations are prepared for Board review and final funding decisions. - The typical review timeline is about 90 days from application submission. - **Open Application Option:** For urgent, time-sensitive opportunities not suited to the RFP cycle, organizations may submit an open application at any time, but funding is very limited outside of RFPs. --- ## Additional Information - The Foundation values approaches that authentically represent community needs and foster local ownership. - Progress is measured by the number and reach of community-driven greening plans established and implemented. - Projects should focus on strategies to build trust and long-term engagement within the community. --- ## External Links - [Community Greening Plans Objective](https://williampennfoundation.org/objective/community-greening-plans) - [Environment & Public Space Program](https://williampennfoundation.org/program/environment-and-public-space) - [How to Apply](https://williampennfoundation.org/funding/how-apply) - [Funding Opportunities](https://williampennfoundation.org/funding/funding-opportunities) - [William Penn Foundation About Page](https://williampennfoundation.org/about) - [Grants Portal (Apply/Submit)](https://wpf.my.site.com/grantee/s/login/) - [Awarded Grants Search](https://williampennfoundation.org/funding/awarded-grants) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Role | Contact/Link | |----------------|---------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Alison Jones | Program Officer | [Profile](https://williampennfoundation.org/profile/alison-jones) | | Grants Team | General Inquiries | grants@williampennfoundation.org | (215) 988-1830 | | Foundation | Main Website | [William Penn Foundation](https://williampennfoundation.org) |

Community Greening Plans - William Penn Foundation

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