To encourage neighborhood engagement, the City of Valparaiso is offering a Know Your Neighbor Grant program to support and encourage neighborhood gatherings, planned activities, block parties and other creative ideas that bring neighbors together.
Neighborhood gatherings offer a time to connect with neighbors, build new associations, learn new skills and can serve as a great opportunity to gather ideas for Neighborhood Improvement Grant Applications. Neighborhoods are encouraged to host welcoming, free gatherings to bring people together within their neighborhood boundaries.
Neighborhood groups are eligible to apply once per year for a $250 grant. If your neighborhood does not have an active association or is a newly forming group, you may qualify for up to $500 to bring neighbors together for the first time. The grant is awarded as a reimbursement. Applicants are responsible for keeping expense receipts to properly account for the event and activity costs.
Eligible activities must be organized by neighborhood groups and must be open and welcoming to all neighbors. An application telling us more about your activity must be submitted to the Community Engagement Department. Applications must be submitted at least two weeks before the event. Limited funds are available for this program and funds will be awarded on a rolling basis, first come first served.
The 2025 grant cycle has closed.
Contact Maggie Clifton, Community Engagement Director, at mclifton@valpo.us or 219-462-1161 to learn more about the program.