The Community Foundation of Lethbridge and Southwestern Alberta is now accepting grant applications for the Community Priorities, Henry S. Varley Fund for Rural Life, and Youth in Action Grants Programs.
“We are excited to see the various charities that come forward seeking funding,” executive director Charleen Davidson said in a news release.
“It is an honour for us to be able to support their important initiatives and we thank our donors for their continued generosity of the community through our work.”
The Community Priorities Fund, which was established in 1966 and exists thanks to donors who wish to see their gifts support the needs of the day, awarded over $448,000 in 2024 through its two calls for funding.
This spring, the fund will distribute $320,000 to charities and other qualified donees, supporting their important work throughout the region.
Applications are due by 4 p.m. on Monday, March 17.
The Henry S. Varley Fund for Rural life was established through a bequest of Pincher Creek area rancher Bill Long to honour his uncle Henry Varley and the family’s ranching heritage.
This fund supports projects and initiatives from community organizations committed to sustaining a high quality of life in rural southwestern Alberta.
It will support the community with over $155,000 this spring.
Applications are due by 4 p.m. on Monday, March 17.
The Youth in Action Grants program funds projects that are initiated, led, and organized by individuals (or a group) 25 years of age or younger, in collaboration with a charity or school.
The goal of this program is to empower youth in southwestern Alberta to create a project that will have a positive impact on their community.
The application deadline for Youth in Action grants is 4 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 28.
Community foundation grants co-ordinator Caitlin Gajdostik is available to answer questions regarding the grant application process, and can be reached at 403-328-5297 or grants@cflsa.ca.
Gajdostik will host a free grant information session on Thursday, Feb. 6, at 10 a.m. via Zoom. RSVP to grants@cflsa.ca and the Zoom link will be sent to you upon registration confirmation.
More information can be found at www.cflsa.ca/grants.
Applicants must be a qualified donee under the Canada Revenue Agency, or apply in partnership with one. All applications must be submitted on-line.

