By Sam Borsato - @BorsatoSam on Twitter

Community Foundation celebrates Canada 150 by announcing 6 grant winners

Jan 19, 2017 | 11:56 AM

LETHBRIDGE – Six local projects and events from across southern Alberta will share in $41,000 from Canada 150 grants.

The Community Foundation of Lethbridge and Southwestern Alberta handed out the awards on Thursday (Jan. 19) to groups from Lundbreck, Fort Macleod, Nanton, Vulcan and Lethbridge. The grant is funded equally by Community Foundations organizations all across Canada, as well as the federal government.
 
Grants were awarded for the following:
– Bert Riggall Environment Foundation
   – Creation of a new heritage tourism experience that promotes environmental conservation.
– Fort Macleod Historical Association
   – Canada Day celebration with special events planned for the 150th milestone.
– Southern Alberta Ethnic Association
   – MulticultureFest to celebrate Canada’s diversity.
– Town of Nanton
   – Community-wide event to celebrate what it means to be Canadian.
– University of Lethbridge – Institute for Child and Youth Services
   – Curated exhibit at CASA featuring the voices and experiences of Blackfoot youth.
– Vulcan and District Historical Society
   – Digital story showcasing recipes and traditions of different cultural groups.
 
According to Charleen Davidson, executive director, each recipient was required to match the value of the grant requested, and the project or celebration had to either encourage participation in Canada 150 by inspiring a deeper understanding of the people, places and events that shaped our country, or promote healthy communities for all. Applicants could apply for up to $15,000.

Davidson noted that it’s exciting to be a part of this grant. “We work really hard to build a strong, healthy, inclusive community, and I think the Canada 150 celebrations will do that.
 
“Ideally, it’s taking down some barriers, promoting more inclusion, more reconciliation work with our First Nations people,” she continued. “To be part of that is just wonderful.”

The second and final round of Canada 150 grants is now underway. The deadline to apply online is set for April 28, 2017.