Community Grants Program

2017-2018A Guide to Different Types of Community Grants, Eligibility

Criteria and How To Apply

20th Anniversary Edition

St. Paul’s Anglican Church. By Hantsheroes—Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0

1

2

3

4

5

1. Eastern Shore Wildlife Association Innovation - The Eastern Shore Wildlife Association has employed innovative efforts to conserve the West River’s once prolific Atlantic salmon stocks and develop a sport angling destination in the Sheet Harbour area including an automated lime dispenser to counter acid rain and a large fish weir.

2. Society for the Deaf & Hard of HearingInclusion - Before the introduction of online video streaming, closed captioning, and real-time speech-to-text transcription televised meetings of Regional Council included a sign language interpreter funded by a municipal grant to the Society for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing.

3. St. Paul’s Anglican ChurchNational Significance - There are only eight known funerary hatchments in Canada, dating from 1760 to 1800, all located at St. Paul’s Church, Halifax. These rare artefacts were restored and are now displayed in the church nave.

4. St. James Anglican ChurchSpirit—In 2007, the congregation of St. James Anglican Church, Boutiliers Point, garnered public attention by declining a grant towards repairs to the registered heritage property. Stating “….somebody else will need the money for something just as important” the women’s auxiliary hosted a yard sale to raise funds.

5. Acadia Recreation Club Accessibility - The Acadia Recreation Club, Lower Sackville, has converted under-used sports fields to create a 5-acre public park. This entirely volunteer-led project has persevered and succeeded in providing residents with an affordable, accessible social venue.

1. ContentsContents

Introduction ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 1

General Instructions ......................................................................................................................................................................... 2

Step 1: Eligibility of an Organization .......................................................................................................................................... 3

Step 2: Select the Type of Grant .................................................................................................................................................. 5

Step 3: Eligible Expenditures—Project Grant ......................................................................................................................... 6

Step 4: Eligible Expenditures—Capital Grant ......................................................................................................................... 8

Step 5: Select a Funding Category .............................................................................................................................................. 91. Arts and Crafts ................................................................................................................................................................................................................9

2. Diversity ...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................10

3. Environment ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................10

4. Emergency Assistance .............................................................................................................................................................................................11

5. History ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................12

6. Housing .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................13

7. Neighbourhood Safety .............................................................................................................................................................................................13

8. Recreation and Leisure ............................................................................................................................................................................................14

Step 6: Submit Application ...........................................................................................................................................................15

Step 7: Responsibility of Grant Recipient ..............................................................................................................................16

Publication Consent Form ............................................................................................................................................................17

Other Municipal Assistance: Grants Programs ....................................................................................................................18

Other Municipal Assistance: Organizational Capacity-Building ...................................................................................20

1

Introduction

The Community Grants Program awards project-specific cash grants to non-profit organizations and charities located within the Halifax Regional Municipality. The program is primarily developmental with a focus on support to volunteer-led initiatives: the program does not fund recurring operating costs.

The Community Grants Program has one (1) application intake per year. The program opens for applications in January and the annual application deadline is March 31st. Late applications (those received or post marked after March 31st) will not be considered.

This guide, an application form, and reporting form are posted online at: www.halifax.ca/boardscom/bccgrants/grants.php. The Community Grants Program web page also has copies of previous recommendation reports so that applicants new to the program can see the number and type of project awarded a grant, the value of awards, and any conditions applied to funding.

Groups who have not previously applied to the program are encouraged to contact Grants & Contributions staff to confirm the eligibility of your organization, project, and the particular expense(s) for which you are requesting a grant. Any applicant can request assistance prior to March 31st but submissions cannot be revised after the call for applications closes on March 31st. However, all applicants have the option to withdraw an application and apply again in a subsequent year.

For general inquiries or assistance with completing an application please contact the Grants & Contributions office at 902.490.7310 or email: nonprofitgrants@halifax.ca.

Notice

This year’s guide has been re-formatted and edited for clarity. The content has not changed substantively but has been arranged sequentially to reflect the process of constructing a grant application. The “steps” guide potential applicants in confirming their eligibility, selecting the type of grant (project or capital) and a funding category. Additional information is included on other municipal grant programs and services to assist volunteers.

2

General Instructions

You may use the following checklist to ensure that your submission is complete.

□ Confirm your organization is eligible for consideration. The registration number will be required for the application form.

□ Select either a project grant or capital grant based on the type of project. □ Obtain quotes to support the value of grant you are requesting. □ Select a funding category. □ Complete the application form and include an itemized financial statement for the prior year and a list

of the current Board of Directors. The form is online at: www.halifax.ca/boardscom/bccgrants/grants.php

□ The application form must be signed by two (2) different members of the organization, one of which must be a member of the Board of Directors.

□ You may wish to include a cover letter to briefly describe your organization and/or the project you are undertaking.

□ Check that the application is complete and arrange delivery either by mail, courier, or drop-off at an HRM Customer Service Centre.

HRM will provide you with the following:

□ A letter confirming receipt of your application (April). □ Written notification of an award, the amount and any conditions, and a final report form (usually June

but subject to the timing of the annual budget approval).

OR

□ Written notification that your application has been declined funding and a brief explanation. You may request further feedback by contacting the Grants & Contributions office.

3

Step 1: Eligibility of an Organization

Applicants must be a registered non-profit organization or charity:

•a society incorporated under the Societies Act (1989);•a non-profit association incorporated under the Co-operative Associations Act (1989);•a non-profit incorporated under the Canada Not-for-profit Corporations Act (2009);•a non-profit incorporated under an Act of the Nova Scotia Legislature;•a registered charity means a charitable organization registered under the Income Tax Act (Canada).

The applicant organization must be registered for at least one (1) year prior to the Community Grants Program application deadline of March 31st.

The Community Grants Program does not fund public and private schools or colleges; post-secondary institutions; a government agency, board or commission.

Grants to organizations located outside the geographic boundary of the municipality will not be considered.

Registration must be current: organizations whose registration has expired, in default or revoked are ineligible for consideration.

Grants are not awarded to individuals, commerce, business, industry, sole proprietorships or unregistered groups.

Membership-Based Clubs: applications from membership-based clubs1 are evaluated using the following criteria:

a. the club provides a service that would otherwise be a responsibility of the municipal government and the geographic area or number of residents is too small to warrant direct service delivery by the municipality;or

b. the socioeconomic or ethno-cultural composition of the membership or target population lends itself to local service delivery to and through a “community of interest”/peer program;and

c. the facility, amenities, program or service make sufficient and appropriate provision for the general public meaning that non-members derive a benefit from public funding.

Membership-Based Housing Cooperatives: eligible housing cooperatives must be incorporated under the Cooperative Associations Act, Chapter 7, Section 61 sub-clauses (A) to (F) as a membership-based non-profit. Capital grants will not be issued to organizations wherein the membership has an equity position (for example, individual shares or dividends, revenue-sharing from the proceeds of sale, individual ownership).

1 Clubs that restrict access to a program or facility to “members only” and/or those who employ a member selection process irrespective of fees.

4

Applicants may be disqualified from consideration if they have not met their obligations with respect to the municipality, for example overdue payment of real property tax, fee, fine or rent, or non-compliance with the terms and conditions of an award (for example, an overdue final report).

Joint applications from two or more eligible non-profit organizations are acceptable but the maximum value of grant remains the same.

Late applications will not be considered.

Only one application will be accepted per year for either a project grant or a capital grant, not both.

5

Step 2: Select the Type of Grant

The Community Grants Program awards only project-specific grants: the program does not fund recurring operating expenses or any portion of operating expenses assigned to a project.

There are two types of grant:

Project grant: up to a maximum of $5,000; or

Capital grant: up to a maximum of $25,000.

•No multi-year awards but eligible organizations may make application to the program in successive years.•Awards may be issued in an amount lower than requested.•Not all applications will be funded.

Project grant: projects of modest scale, for example a program-related expense, organizational capacity building, minor repair or small equipment purchase.

Capital grant: large-scale property-related projects or expensive/specialized equipment (the individual item costs over $5,000). Preference may be given to remediate a safety issue, to meet building code, by-law or licensing requirements, or for environmental remediation (for example, a replacement well or septic system).

Note: if ‘cost’ is simply a function of the quantity of items purchased rather than the individual unit price the application may be considered under a project grant of up to $5,000.

The amount of grant requested should be supported by competing quotes. If you have selected only one supplier this should be explained in the grant application. Applications without quotes will be considered incomplete.

If a grant or portion thereof is towards payment of professional fees, describe the selection process and include the individual or company’s qualifications. Qualified trades should be considered when required by law or insurance.

6

Step 3: Eligible Expenditures—Project Grant

The following is a list of expenses typically supported under the Community Grants Program project grant category:

•non-recurring project-specific professional fees of a licensed individual2 , qualified tradesperson or specialist3;•technical studies and plans (for example, marketing, feasibility study, program evaluation, conservation

plan, exhibit design, building condition report);•valuation appraisal (real property, artefact, original work of art);•adaptive aids;•purchase of safety equipment;•equipment lending/rental program for the general public (not restricted by membership or affiliation);•equipment costing under $5,000 per item4;•minor repairs (preventive maintenance/inspections are considered a recurring operating cost);•project-specific facility or equipment rental;•project or organizational marketing (print advertisement, brochure, poster, radio or television

broadcast, display banner, web site development or upgrade, custom computer database, mobile application, portable display stand or booth);•small construction projects and landscaping;•permanent or temporary exhibition or display, interpretation panel, monument or marker;•commission of original works (literary, visual or performing arts, traditional or contemporary craft);•community-based applied research (oral history, photography, film, archival documents, artefact,

environmental survey or mapping);•non-commercial self-publishing or recording (for example map, guide, book, program, exhibit catalogue,

cd).

The following is a list of expenses typically not supported under the Community Grants Program:

•recurring core operating expenses (utilities, rent, salary, wage, insurance, telecommunications, instructor or perpetual care);•items for personal ownership (for example, personal clothing or uniforms, equipment);•bursary, honoraria, gift, prize, award, scholarship, or souvenir;•school-based or academic programs5 ;•research for academic or commercial purposes, personal genealogical research;•conference, trade show, banquet, award ceremony, reunion, meeting, instructional or professional

development workshop, event, festival, tournament, religious or memorial service;•promotion of a religious or political doctrine;

2 Examples of licensed professional services include an engineer, lawyer, accountant, surveyor, an appraiser. These are “one-time only” expenses and non-recurring.

3 A “specialist” includes persons with industry-related academic or specialized training or accreditation and demonstrated experience.

4 Individual items costing over $5,000 may be considered under a capital grant application.5 The municipality provides supplementary education funding including designated funds to enhance physical education,

art and music programs.

7

•consumables (for example, medication, food, beverages, fuel, travel, office supplies);•commercial publishing or sales (including profit-sharing);•admission or membership fees;•general fund-raising campaign or related event;•international aid;•interior decorating or cleaning;•medical services, therapeutic counselling, supervision, personal representation, training or

accreditation, or personal legal representation.

With the exception of equipment loan programs, grants towards the purchase of small items6 are lower priority funding outcomes and will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

6 For example, toys, books, office or sports equipment, household fixtures or furnishings, small tools, seeds or annual plant material, computer accessories.

8

Step 4: Eligible Expenditures—Capital Grant

The following is a list of expenses typically supported under the Community Grants Program capital grant category:

•contribution towards the purchase of real property;•vehicle purchase (for example a van, bus, snowmobile, ride-on-mower, tractor); •construction or expansion of a building or amenity (for example, a wharf, bridge, playground, park,

boardwalk, gazebo, greenhouse);•capital improvements: a “capital Improvement” is a permanent structural replacement or alteration that

sustains the value and utility of an existing building or infrastructure and extends the useful life of the property (for example, roof, exterior walls, exterior doors and windows, foundation, structural weight-bearing beams);•replacement or upgrade to a heating or ventilation system, electrical system, well or septic; •large or specialized equipment item costing over $5,000 per unit;•commission of an original work or the purchase of a work or artefact of social, historical or cultural

significance costing over $5,000 (for example a sculpture) including independent appraisal of value;•large-scale site beautification or “greening” (for example, re-forestation, environmental stabilization or

remediation of environmental contamination);•exterior painting is a lower priority funding outcome and usually awarded for registered heritage

property wherein the ‘authentic’ color and finish is integral to protection and/or heritage interpretation;•a repair or upgrade to a parking amenity is a lower priority funding outcome and is typically declined,

exceptions may be made for a community-owned park-and-ride facility or accessibility upgrade.

The following is a list of expenses typically not supported under the Community Grants Program.

•private or government-owned real property;•leasehold improvements (applicant must be the owner of the building or land);•items for personal ownership.

If an expense is not identified please contact Grants & Contributions staff for clarification at 902.490.7310.

99

Step 5: Select a Funding Category

Grants are project-specific: application can be made to any one of the funding categories regardless of an organization’s mandate. For example, an environmental organization might apply for funding to support a community art project or a community museum might apply for playground equipment.

Select the funding category that fits your particular project. If the project combines elements from several categories contact Grants & Contributions for assistance at 902.490.7310.

The funding categories are presented in alphabetical order only; there is no priority assigned to any category.

1. Arts and CraftsThe Arts and Crafts category focuses on projects that advance arts-based community engagement. Funding supports non-commercial initiatives including art as a leisure pursuit, projects that preserve or present the region’s cultural traditions and identities, contemporary interpretation or innovative presentation techniques, or an issue-based participatory art-making process.

Priority outcomes.

•Non-professional community-based arts organizations or projects.•Pre-professional arts organizations.•Projects, programs and services that foster cultural identity and

self-representation.•Preference may be given to applicants not in receipt of federal,

provincial or municipal funding.

Professional arts and cultural organizations must provide confirmation of ineligibility under the Grants to Professional Arts Organizations Grant Program. See Administrative Order 2014-007-ADM http://www.halifax.ca/legislation/adminorders/documents/2014-007-ADM.pdf and the Interpretation Bulletin. HRM Community Grants Program Arts & Crafts Funding Category: Fiscal Year 2016-2017 (2016) posted online at: www.halifax.ca/boardscom/bccgrants/CommunityGrantsProgram.php.

Municipal funding for arts and cultural festivals or events is available under the Regional Special Events Grants Program. See: Administrative Order 2014-021-GOV—http://www.halifax.ca/legislation/adminorders/documents/2014-021-GOV.pdf

Ketch Harbour Area Residents Association—Duncan’s CoveThe Association’s volunteers will expand their community programming with the conversion of a former fire hall in Duncan’s Cove to include amenities for arts programming and events. A grant of $10,000 awarded towards acoustic fit-up and electrical upgrades.

St. Margaret’s Bay Chorale Association—Upper TantallonThe Bay Chorale celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2017 with the commission of an original work. A grant of $2,375 awarded towards the creation of an original choral work by musician, composer and professional choral singer Jeff Enns.

10

2. DiversityThe Diversity category encompasses organizations and projects serving individuals and families who face physical, financial, linguistic or attitudinal barriers to full participation in community activities including but not limited to race, ethnicity, physical disability, poverty, age, sexual orientation, or geographic isolation. The program does not fund scholastic or vocational training (for example, educational upgrading, literacy, vocational skills).

Note: organizations seeking grant funding towards facility accessibility upgrades or adaptive equipment for persons with a disability should make application under this funding category.

Priority outcomes.

•Accessibility for persons with a disability.•Translation or conversion of written materials or signage.•Initiatives that present the municipality as a hospitable

community to immigrants, refugees and migrants.•Programs or services serving distinct ethno-cultural or

sociocultural communities of interest.•Preference may be given to applicants not in receipt of federal,

provincial or municipal funding.

3. EnvironmentThe environment category includes small-scale recycling and monitoring projects, public education, protection or remediation of land or waterways, protection of wildlife habitat and endangered species, and community gardens.

Priority outcomes.

•Protection or restoration of the region’s natural habitat to maintain or restore biodiversity.•Protection of endangered species.•Environmental remediation.•Public education and interpretation.•Animal control.•Preference may be given to applicants not in receipt of federal,

provincial or municipal funding.

MusGo Riders Cooperative Limited—Eastern Shore (East Preston to Ship Harbour)The Cooperative enhances social inclusion through the provision of transit for persons with mobility challenges, lower income households, and charters for local community groups. A grant of $18,500 awarded towards the purchase of a passenger van with accessibility features.

Nature Conservancy of Canada: Atlantic Division—Musquodoboit RiverThe Conservancy’s Musquodoboit River Project is a preserve comprising 1,500 acres of watershed lands and forest that provides habitat for endangered species. A grant of $25,000 awarded towards the purchase of 60 acres land in Lower Meagher’s Grant.

11

4. Emergency AssistanceEmergency assistance grants support non-profit organizations in the provision of immediate aid to individuals and families in overcoming a critical event (for example a natural or man-made disaster) or the provision of subsistence aid for the hungry, homeless or displaced.

Note: for the purpose of this program the term “emergency assistance” does not refer to an organization’s financial status or general operational capacity.

Priority outcomes.

•Overnight/short-stay shelter for homeless persons, victims of domestic abuse, or post-incarceration housing (also referred to as a “halfway house” or “community residential facility”).•Community-based emergency feeding programs7 and food

banks for lower income persons. Preference may be given to organizations whose primary mandate is food security.•Peer support services and crisis intervention.•Emergency evacuation or comfort centres recognized by HRM

Fire & Emergency Services. Only incremental costs specific to the standards required by municipal emergency operations shall be considered under this category, for example a generator and electrical hook-up, utilities conversion, commercial appliances8. Applicants must provide written endorsement from Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency with the application. Excludes school evacuation facilities.•Preference may be given to applicants not in receipt of federal,

provincial or municipal funding.

Second stage or tertiary housing is funded under the Housing category.

7 For the purpose of this program an “emergency feeding program” is a non-institutional program that feeds the homeless or lower income persons on a regular basis and whose service is advertised to the general public; such programs are not social events per se nor community outreach.

8 A roof repair, heating system or kitchen cabinetry, for example, are not unique to a comfort centre and would not qualify under this category. Accessibility upgrades would be considered under the Diversity funding category.

Halifax Amateur Radio ClubHalifax Radio club members across HRM serve as volunteers in support of HRM’s Fire & Emergency Services to provide communications in the event of an emergency. A grant of $1,800 awarded to purchase a portable radio transmission kit that can operate independent of electrical power, telephone or Internet service.

Community Care Network—HalifaxThe Community Care Network provides household furnishings and food to lower income individuals and families. To address over-crowding during peak hours requires the building’s waiting area be expanded. A grant of $4,500 awarded towards renovations.

12

5. HistoryThe History category encompasses community-based research, collections, and public presentation aimed at enhancing awareness of the region’s physical and social development and distinct cultural identities. Conservation projects for registered heritage property or a historically significant artefact are also funded under this category.

Priority outcomes.

•Opportunities for self-representation.•Inclusion of diverse communities of interest (geographic and

demographic).•Authentic preservation of heritage assets (buildings, sites,

artefacts).•Innovative presentation and interpretation techniques including

web-based and digital.•Preference may be given to applicants not in receipt of federal,

provincial or municipal funding.

Fultz Corner Restoration Society—Lower SackvilleThe former Bennett Daniel Fultz property (c.1860’s) operates as a community museum to preserve the history of the Sackville, Beaver Bank, and Lucasville area. A grant of $25,000 awarded towards the cost of fabricating replacement wooden windows.

St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church – Middle Sackville St. John the Evangelist Church is believed to be the oldest building in Sackville (c. 1700’s) and is a registered heritage property. A grant of $9,000 awarded towards exterior painting and minor facia repairs.

13

6. HousingThe Housing category supports accommodations for persons in need of secure, appropriate, and affordable housing options. The category includes transitional (“second stage”), supportive and independent housing but excludes private home ownership. For the purpose of the Community Grants Program the term “affordable housing” refers to rents under 30% of income; tenants/clients are lower income as per the Canadian Council on Social Development Low Income Cut-off Scales (LICOS) for Nova Scotia.

Priority outcomes.

•Supportive housing for persons unable to secure appropriate accommodation in the open market (for example persons with a disability, mental health consumers, seniors, youth).•Expansion of affordable housing options.•Neighbourhood integration and sensitive design.•Preference may be given to applicants not in receipt of federal,

provincial or municipal funding.

Temporary shelter for homeless persons and emergency short-stay accommodations are funded under the Emergency Assistance category.

7. Neighbourhood SafetyMobilizing residents in public safety initiatives extends beyond municipal police and fire emergency services to include, for example, community-based efforts to reduce vandalism, illegal dumping, litter or graffiti, the promotion of pedestrian safety, and emergency preparedness. This category does not fund health promotion or medical projects.

Priority outcomes.

•Crime prevention.•Fire prevention.•Emergency preparedness.•Neighbourhood cleanliness.•Preference may be given to applicants not in receipt of federal,

provincial or municipal funding.

Note: the scale of initiative is a factor in the evaluation of submissions. Preference will be given to projects that engage entire neighbourhoods or “communities of interest” as compared to property-related upgrades (alarm system, exterior lighting). Applications may be strengthened by the inclusion of statistics or demonstration of the problem (for example, a photograph of an illegal dump site).

S.S Atlantic Heritage Park Society – Terence Bay/Lower Prospect To preserve the history of the 1873 sinking of the S.S Atlantic and the loss of 562 lives, the Society provides stewardship for two burial sites (St. Paul’s Anglican and the Star of the Sea Roman Catholic cemeteries), monuments, and the SS Atlantic Heritage Park. A grant of $2,000 towards advertising to encourage local visitors.

14

8. Recreation and LeisureGrants to support recreational amenities or programs are intended to expand opportunities for physical activity. The focus of funding is on entry level (non-elite) developmental programming and leisure activities for persons with special needs.

Priority outcomes.

•Community-based recreation amenities in under-serviced communities.•Entry level and developmental programs.•Leisure activities for persons with special needs.•Physical activity for children and youth.•Preference may be given to applicants not in receipt of federal,

provincial or municipal funding.

Note: organizations seeking facility accessibility upgrades or adaptive equipment for persons with a disability should make application under the Diversity category.

Sheet Harbour & Area Chamber of Commerce—Sheet HarbourThe development of Sheet Harbour as a destination for sport and recreational boating on the Eastern Shore is a collaborative project with marine-based local businesses. A grant of $4,999 awarded towards construction of a coastal marina.

Lake District Recreation Association—Lower SackvilleConstructed in 1971, the Sackville Arena is one of the few remaining non-governmental or institutional facilities. Upgrades to the building will include an elevator and fire exit stairwell. A grant of $25,000 awarded towards accessibility upgrades.

Nova Scotia Sea School Society—RegionalThe Society promotes sailing and related skills (navigation, boat building, and survival skills) and wilderness education for youth and young adults. A grant of $3,000 awarded towards the purchase of safety equipment for outdoor education program.

15

Step 6: Submit Application

Application must be made using the program application form. A cover letter, financial information, quotes and any additional materials should be attached. If including a cover letter to describe your organization’s aims and/or a particular project you might refer to previous grants reports to see how an applicant organization and project are described. Past reports are posted at: www.halifax.ca/boardscom/bccgrants/CommunityGrantsProgram.php.

A copy of the prior year’s financial statement must be included. This financial information should be itemized to show all revenue and expenditures, assets and liabilities.

Applicants must disclose if they have or intend to apply to another municipal funding program or any other form of municipal assistance (for example, tax relief, or less than market value rent). If funding from another source is not confirmed at the time of making application note this on the application form.

Application forms must be signed by two (2) people, one of which must be a member of the Board of Directors.

Incomplete applications may be denied consideration.

Applications must be post-marked or dated (courier or drop-off delivery) on or before March 31st.Applications will not be accepted by fax or email.

Applications should be mailed to:

Community Grants ProgramHRM FinancePO Box 1749 Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 3A5

Applications delivered by courier should be directed to:

Community Grants ProgramHRM Finance5th Floor, Alderney Gate40 Alderney Drive, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia

Applications may be dropped off at any HRM Customer Service Centre. For the address of a centre near you see: www.halifax.ca/311/InPerson.php.

Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy: applicants are advised that any records created or held by the municipality can be requested under Freedom of Information legislation. Extracts from an application may also be cited in a public report. Applicants will be notified by HRM should a FOIPOP request be received in relation to their grant application.

16

Step 7: Responsibility of Grant Recipient

Notification: all applicants receive written notification to confirm if a grant has been awarded and if so the amount and any conditions. Applicants not recommended for an award may request feedback.

Payment: grants may be issued in full, in instalments, or held-back pending confirmation that specific requirements have been met (for example, financing, approvals or permits).

Inability to proceed: if the funded project cannot be completed as planned, or cannot be undertaken, please contact the Grants & Contributions office for guidance. In some cases an extension may be permitted and the funds carried forward to the next fiscal year. If an extension if approved the term will be for 12 months and confirmed in writing.

Refund of grant balance: in some cases it is necessary to refund all or a portion of a grant. A cheque payable to Halifax Regional Municipality may be sent to the Grants & Contributions office.

Refund of ineligible expenditures: your letter of notification will specify the value of grant and the expenditures supported by the grant. Misappropriation of funds may result in a request to repay the grant to the municipality and/or suspension of eligibility for future consideration.

Mandatory final report: organizations in receipt of an award under the Community Grants Program are required to submit a final report on or before March 31st. A reporting form will be included with your letter of notification and grant payment(s). Failure to report may result in suspension of eligibility. A report is sent annually to the Grants Committee listing organizations in default. Eligibility for the following year is reinstated once the documentation has been received and the expenditures are in compliance with the terms of funding.

Grant recipients are encouraged to include a photograph or sample with their final report. Photographs may be used in a future program guide and/or posted on the HRM web site. A permission form is included on page 17. For assistance with reporting please contact the Grants & Contributions office at 902.490.7310.

Acknowledgement: for guidance on acknowledgements or use of the Halifax Regional Municipality logo contact Grants & Contributions at: nonprofitgrants@halifax.ca.

17

Publication Consent Form

Form requesting permission for the use of photograph(s) that are the property of a non-profit grant recipient organization or personal property.

Halifax Regional Municipality encourages award recipients to submit a photograph of their funded project, or several images showing a time-lapsed progression (“before/after”). These images may be used in the Community Grants Program guide or web page.

Consent Form: Community Grants Program

Complete and sign a copy of this form for each individual image.

I hereby grant permission to the Halifax Regional Municipality to use the enclosed photograph(s) on the municipal web site, or in any publication associated with the expenditure of a municipal grant.

The photographs are my property; I own the copyright to them and/or I have the right to permit the Halifax Regional Municipality to use them as authorized. No other person has copyright in the photograph(s) whose permission is needed to use them as authorized.

I agree to indemnify and save harmless the Halifax Regional Municipality against any liability incurred as a result of the Halifax Regional Municipality using the photograph(s) on its web site or in a publication in breach of the copyright of a person undisclosed by me to the Municipality.

Name of photographer (state if unknown):

Date photograph taken (if known) or archival reference if applicable:

Description of the image (including location):

Signature: Date

Please do not write on the back of photographs—the writing may show through the image when scanned or reproduced.

Thank you for your assistance.

18

The following municipal grant programs may be (i) open to all non-profit organizations and charities, or (ii) limited to a defined type of organization. Readers should refer to the applicable program policy for eligibility criteria and the web site address for program-specific application forms and supplementary materials. Where applicable, the name of the Administrative Order (policy) is included in the subject line. These documents can be found online at: www.halifax.ca/legislation/adminorders/index.php.

The programs are listed in alphabetical order by name and the department responsible for the program’s administration.

1. District Activity Fund and District Capital Fund—Office of the Chief Administrative OfficerModest project-specific grants to registered non-profit organizations and charities for small-scale events and projects. Capital grants may assist property-related and equipment purchases for amenities serving the general public, for example, a park, playground, or community hall. Award amounts vary subject to budget capacity. See: www.halifax.ca/councillors/councillor-funds.php.

2. Grants to Professional Arts Organizations Program (Administrative Order 2014-007-ADM)—Parks and RecreationAnnual application deadline. Grants to registered non-profit professional arts and culture organizations that supports, presents, or produces work by professional or established artists, and employs qualified paid staff to administer on-going arts and culture programs and services.

Two funding streams:

•Operating Grant: administration and core programming support of up to $50,000 for “anchor organizations” that have operated for a minimum of 5 consecutive years with strong public impact in terms of the number of events, attendance, and employment with an annual operating budget of $3,000,000; up to $25,000 for professional arts organizations that have operated for 3 consecutive years.•Project: project-specific awards up to $10,000 to professional arts organizations that have operated

for 3 consecutive years for production or presentation.

See: http://www.halifax.ca/culture/Opportunities/index.php#ArtsGrantProgram

3. Grants to Rural Transit (Administrative Order 2014-012-ADM)—Transportation and Public WorksAnnual operating grants to community-based transit services in rural communities in Halifax Regional Municipality. See: www.halifax.ca/transit/rural-transit.php.

4. Grants to Volunteer Search and Rescue Organizations (Administrative Order 2014-018-ADM)—Halifax Fire and EmergencyAnnual operating and project-specific grants to volunteer ground search and rescue non-profit organizations located within the geographic boundary of Halifax Regional Municipality. The value of award varies with annual budget capacity.

See: www.halifax.ca/legislation/adminorders/documents/2014-018-ADM.pdf.

5. Heritage Incentive Grants (Administrative Order 2014-002-ADM)—Planning and DevelopmentMatching grants of up to $10,000 for eligible exterior restoration work to encourage conservation of privately-owned municipally registered heritage property used for residential or commercial purposes. Applications shall only be accepted between January 1st and March 1st.

See: www.halifax.ca/heritage-properties/hertpropincentprog.php.

Other Municipal Assistance: Grants Programs

19

6. Marketing Levy Special Events Reserve Grants (Administrative Order 2014-020-GOV)—Parks and RecreationThe Marketing Levy Special Events Reserve supports large-scale events that have an economic impact and tourism appeal. Four funding streams:

•Signature Event: event has operated for a minimum of 5 consecutive years with demonstrated event management and a record of success, has a minimum budget of $500,000.•Tourism Event: event has operated for 2 consecutive years with demonstrated event management

and a record of success, has a minimum budget of $300,000.•New (Emerging) Event: has operated for 1 year with demonstrated event management and a

minimum budget of $50,000. Preference may be given to applicants who have secured corporate and government funding.•Major Hosting Events: support for bidding on the right to host a major event with a minimum budget

of $500,000.

See: www.halifax.ca/legislation/adminorders/documents/2014-020-GOV.pdf.

Further information see: http://halifax.ca/events/grants/

7. Regional Special Events Grants Program (Administrative Order 2014-021-GOV)—Parks and RecreationAnnual application deadline January. Grants to registered non-profit organizations or charities governed by a volunteer board. Four funding streams:

•Community Celebrations: less than 5 days duration, focus on local residents, community gathering or civic holiday, free admission. Maximum grant up to $1,000.•Established Community Event: maximum 7 days duration, focus on local residents, free or low cost

activities, have been in existence a minimum of 3 years, minimum event budget of $10,000. Maximum grant up to $25,000 for up to 3 years.•Significant Anniversaries: event organized to commemorate or celebrate a major quarterly

anniversary (25th, 50th, 75th, 100th etc.) with a minimum budget of $7,500. Recipient ineligible for consideration under another Halifax Regional Municipality event grant program. Maximum grant up to $10,000.•Cultural Events and Showcases: events with strong cultural content that furthers the disciplines

of literary, media, performing or visual arts, accessible to the public with free or low cost activities, minimum budget of $50,000. Maximum grant up to $60,000 for up to 3 years.

See: http://halifax.ca/events/grants/

8. Tax Relief for Non-Profit Organizations (Administrative Order 2014-001-ADM)—FinanceDiscretionary annual award towards real property taxes. Eligibility must be renewed annually and is non-transferable. Availability subject to annual budget capacity. Restricted eligibility.

See: www.halifax.ca/boardscom/bccgrants/TaxExemptionsforNon-ProfitOrganziations.php.

20

Other Municipal Assistance: Organizational Capacity-Building

The following municipal programs and services may be of interest to start-up and established non-profit organizations in terms of capacity-building, project planning, or assistance to program users. Readers should refer to the applicable program contact information for further details. Where applicable, the name of the Administrative Order (policy) is included in the subject line. These documents can be found online at: www.halifax.ca/legislation/adminorders/index.php.

The programs are listed in alphabetical order by name followed by the name of the department responsible for the program’s administration.

1. Disposal of Surplus Real Property: Community Interest Category (Administrative Order 50)—Operations Support/Finance Real property no longer required for municipal operations may be declared “surplus” by Regional Council and disposed of through a defined process. Property assigned to the Community Interest category may be offered through a Call for Submissions that is restricted to registered non-profit organizations and charities.

See: www.halifax.ca/surplusproperties/communityinterest/index.php

2. Heritage Property Program—Planning and DevelopmentProperty owners interested in applying for registration as a heritage property or those seeking conservation advice or approval for substantial alterations should contact Planning and Development staff.

See: www.halifax.ca/heritage-properties/index.php

3. Jumpstart/HRM RecKids—Parks and RecreationA joint initiative of the Canadian Tire Jumpstart Program and HRM Recreation, the program provides assistance to children and youth who due to lack of funds would otherwise unable to participate in sport, art, cultural and recreational activities. The program supports registered non-profit organizations.

See: www.halifax.ca/rec/JumpstartRecKids.php

4. Neighbourhood Place-making Program—Parks and RecreationProgram offers guidance and support to community members interested in hosting a project in their neighbourhood that brings residents together to create public art (street mural, an installation, communal fixtures). Municipal staff will assist with referrals for approvals, coordination, and funding.

See: www.halifax.ca/culture/communityarts/placemaking.php

5. Organizational Development—Parks and RecreationSubject to the availability of staff, community groups may be assisted with organizational development such as training for Board of Directors, policy development, financial management, marketing, planning, volunteer recruitment, risk management, or project development.

See: www.halifax.ca/volunteerservices/

6. Special Events Task Force Procedures for Events, Parades and Street Closures (Administrative Order 2014-010-ADM)—Parks and RecreationThe Special Events Task Force provides technical and logistical support to events hosted on municipal land or events held on non-municipal land that may seek municipal services including electrical, grounds maintenance, equipment delivery, police of fire and emergency services, traffic control, a temporary street closure, transit, or solid waste.

21

7. Volunteer Awards—Parks and RecreationAn annual program of awards recognizing exceptional volunteers in three categories: (i) youth, (ii) adult, or (iii) community group.

See: www.halifax.ca/volunteerservices/awards/index.php

8. Volunteer Conference—Parks and RecreationAn annual two-day conference in the Fall (November) provides an opportunity to network with peers from across the region, attend instructional workshops, and gather information on programs and services targeting the volunteer sector.

See: www.halifax.ca/volunteerservices/volunteerconference.php

22

4

2

1

3

5 6

1. Bide Awhile Animal ShelterAnimal Control - Grants to the Bide Awhile Animal Shelter and SPCA have expanded community-based shelter services and heighten public awareness of responsible pet ownership.

2. Narratives in Space and Time Innovative - In advance of the 100th anniversary of the Halifax Explosion, the Narrative in Space + Time Society launched an innovative series of walking tours featuring digital, visual and performance elements and interactive storytelling actively engaging participants in interpreting the physical environment.

3. Valley Bicentennial Theatre SocietyNational Significance - The Bicentennial Theatre, Middle Musquodoboit, is home to a rare example of scenic artwork by itinerant scenic artist William Gill (1854-1943). In 2002, the artefact was professionally restored and is a feature attraction on permanent display.

4. Hooked Rug Museum of North America Society Cultural Preservation - The region’s network of community museums preserves cultural traditions and enhances appreciation of distinct cultural identities. The Hooked Rug Museum, Queensland, is home to Noah’s Ark, a three-dimensional assemblage that includes 104 hooked replica animals and figures. The project took three years to complete, stands 5’7” tall and weighs 331 lbs.

5. Metro Non-Profit Housing Society Collaboration - In 1998 a collaboration of local stakeholders developed a partnership to expand affordable housing options for clients living in shelters or sub-standard housing. The Buddy Daye Street Apartment & Housing Support Centre‘s sensitive design was recognized with the 2002 Lieutenant Governor’s Medal for Architecture.

6. Martock Nordic Ski ClubCollaboration - - Rather than compete, the Nova Nordic Ski Club and Martock Nordic Ski Club merged to create a new club which led to a resurgence in cross-country skiing with free access to equipment and groomed trails in provincial parks.

1 2 3

4 5

Halifax Regional MunicipalityGrants and Contributions

2017

1. Affirmative Ventures AssociationInnovation - The Affirmative Ventures Association, Dartmouth, employs a participatory model to foster residents’ independence. In 2008, the Association’s 10-unit residence received an Award of Excellence for Housing from the Canadian Institute of Planners.

2. Veith Street Gallery Studio AssociationInclusion—Arts-related opportunities for persons with a disability and mental health consumers have increased in recent years with an emphasis on self-directed programming, self-representation and public presentation.

3. Victoria Road United Baptist ChurchDiversity—Lifted from its foundations and hauled by a team of horses to its present location the Victoria Road Baptist Church, (c.1853) played an important role in relation to the settlement of Black Loyalist descendants in Dartmouth.

4. Sackville Rivers AssociationYouth Engagement—The Sackville Rivers Association has championed the protection of the Sackville River Watershed and fostered future stewardship through school-based programming and field trips.

5. Salvation Army (Booth Centre)Community Gardens—HRM’s support to community gardens has encompassed youth initiatives, seniors’ residences, and communal food production.