The Neighborhood Matching Grant is available to neighborhood- based organizations for projects that will make their neighborhoods better places to live, work, play, and shop. These projects may physically improve neighborhoods or help neighborhood organizations become stronger. Public safety, education, and recreational initiatives can also receive grants. All projects must comply with applicable federal, state, county and city codes.

Organizations will compete for grants with other organizations. The maximum amount of funds to be awarded by the Neighborhood Improvement Program will be $1,000 per neighborhood association per fiscal year. Organizations must match funds awarded with contributions of volunteer time, cash or in- kind donations of goods and services that are at least equal to the total amount of funds requested. A match of 100% of volunteer time is required for all awarded grants.

For more information on Neighborhood Matching grants, contact Erica Hink at (803) 576-1340 or email at hinke@rcgov.us

Applications are available at www.rcgov.us and are due Monday, June 8, 2009 at 4 pm.