[Oregon Community Foundation](https://oregoncf.org)

March 2027 (Full application deadline, projected)

Typical grants range from $1,000 to $5,000; larger awards considered for special projects.

Supports acquisition, restoration, and enhancement of Oregon parks and native landscapes, emphasizing education, recreation, and community engagement.

Forecasted cycle—dates are projected; confirm timing on the program page.

--- ## Description The Oregon Parks Foundation Fund, managed by the Oregon Community Foundation, provides grant funding to support the acquisition, preservation, and restoration of Oregon’s native landscapes and public parks. Grants also fund environmental, recreational, and educational improvements, with a focus on strengthening educational opportunities (such as ecological interpretive programs) and enhancing the outdoor experience (e.g., trail construction, interpretive signage). The fund prioritizes projects that foster connectivity, community support, and increased park access for underserved communities, while maintaining a longstanding commitment to Oregon’s natural heritage. --- ## Due Dates - March 2027 (anticipated/projected full application deadline) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Typical grant awards range from **$1,000 to $5,000**. - Larger grants may occasionally be considered for unique or special projects. --- ## Eligibility - **Eligible Applicants:** - Private, tax-exempt nonprofit organizations and public agencies within Oregon. - Preference is given to smaller, community-based organizations and those with a strong track record in park-related projects. - **Eligible Projects:** - Acquisition of natural parks and open space. - Habitat restoration. - Enhancement of outdoor experiences (e.g., trail construction, interpretive signage). - Park-related ecological education programs. - **Competitive Proposals Should:** - Demonstrate strong connection to parks or undeveloped native land. - Include an educational component for youth/adults. - Promote connectivity (land acquisition, trail projects). - Show community support (other donors, volunteers, partnerships). - Increase access for underserved communities (low-income, minority, rural). - **Ineligible Activities/Expenses:** - Projects outside Oregon. - Operating support/ongoing administrative expenses (unless a compelling case is made). - Large capital projects where a small grant would have little impact. - One-time excursion activities. - Deficit financing or debt retirement. - Recreational facilities (e.g., fencing, sports fields, pool construction, lighting, sewer/water systems, landscaping, maintenance). - Projects likely to be long delayed. --- ## Application Process - Applications are submitted via [MyOCF, the Oregon Community Foundation’s online portal](https://oregoncf.my.site.com/MyOCF_login). - Required attachments: - Cover letter introducing the project and funding request. - Project budget (projected revenue and expenditures). - Additional project information (optional: graphics, photos, schematics, timeline). - Review the [RFP document](https://oregoncf.org/assets/PDFs-and-Docs/MS-Docs/grants/OPFF_RFP-2026.pdf) for detailed guidance before applying. - Notification of funding decisions is provided in writing after review by the advisory committee and OCF board. - **Reporting:** Grantees must submit a report on fund usage approximately nine months after the award date. The [evaluation form](https://oregoncf.org/assets/PDFs-and-Docs/PDFs/Grants/2023/Evaluation-Form-MRO-Edits.doc) should be submitted to Marcy Houle at [newmoonfarms@gmail.com](mailto:newmoonfarms@gmail.com). --- ## Additional Information - Preference is given to projects that leverage other sources of support and where OPFF funding will make a significant difference. - Projects should demonstrate measurable community impact and foster collaboration. - Applications from organizations serving underserved or rural communities are especially encouraged. --- ## External Links - [Oregon Parks Foundation Fund program page](https://oregoncf.org/grants-and-scholarships/grants/oregon-parks-foundation-fund) - [Full RFP and guidelines (PDF)](https://oregoncf.org/assets/PDFs-and-Docs/MS-Docs/grants/OPFF_RFP-2026.pdf) - [MyOCF application portal](https://oregoncf.my.site.com/MyOCF_login) - [Grant evaluation/reporting form (DOC)](https://oregoncf.org/assets/PDFs-and-Docs/PDFs/Grants/2023/Evaluation-Form-MRO-Edits.doc) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Email | Phone | Role/Notes | |-------------------|------------------------------------------|----------------|------------------------------------| | Michael Oreste | [moreste@oregoncf.org](mailto:moreste@oregoncf.org) | | Senior Program Officer, Donor Impact | | Marcy Houle | [newmoonfarms@gmail.com](mailto:newmoonfarms@gmail.com) | (503) 222-5455 | Point of contact for reports | | General Inquiries | [info@oregoncf.org](mailto:info@oregoncf.org) | (503) 227-6846 | Oregon Community Foundation |

Oregon Parks Foundation Fund

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