Strengthening Neighborhoods


Celebrating 25 years of Strengthening Neighborhoods


We’re helping build community capacity.


We know that residents have the best insight into how to improve life in their communities. We also know that communities have many strengths, including their people, institutions, and public resources. That’s why our Strengthening Neighborhoods program supports residents in working together and leading solutions for their communities.

 

About the program

Strengthening Neighborhoods was founded in 1996 in response to community input about how The Denver Foundation could expand its impact by investing in neighborhood and community capacity. Strengthening Neighborhoods awards grants are usually a maximum of $5,000. The average grant size is $2,500. Grants are made directly to residents for use in resident-led projects that address one or more of our goals. Strengthening Neighborhoods makes grants directly to projects and campaigns led by residents from BIPOC communities and communities with lower incomes throughout the seven counties of Metro Denver. 

How to apply


Strengthening Neighborhoods grants are available to groups located in the seven counties of Metro Denver. We prioritize projects and campaigns in communities where people have lower average incomes and in BIPOC communities.

Strengthening Neighborhoods is open for applications.

Please create a new profile for your organization at TDF Grants Manager- Strengthening Neighborhoods and DESCI. If you have any questions, please contact us at sn@denverfoundation.org.

Apply now

25 year celebration event


Strengthening Neighborhoods 25 Years. Photo credit: Armando Geneyro https://armandogeneyro.com/

Meet Our Grantees


Rooted in Community-Centered Work: The Shift

Supported by Strengthening Neighborhoods, The Shift leadership program supports nonprofit partners with an appreciative, asset-based approach that builds on the strengths in communities. The Shift focuses on building strong trust, strong relationships, and lasting partnerships.

Pictured: EL PASO Movement, Strengthening Neighborhoods grantee, and The Shift program participants.