The Valley Community Foundation is proud to announce the launch of The Valley Celebrates America’s 250, a regional grant initiative designed to inspire, support, and fund community-based programs and events commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States.
As communities across the nation prepare to recognize this historic milestone, the Valley Community Foundation is investing in local efforts that honor the Valley’s unique role in the American story while encouraging civic pride, education, creativity, and connection throughout the region.
The Valley Community Foundation will award thirty (30) grants of $500 each to support projects taking place across the Valley’s five-town region. The initiative seeks to encourage broad community participation, with a special emphasis on engaging Valley youth in celebrating America through meaningful and locally inspired programming.
Eligible projects may include, but are not limited to, community celebrations, exhibits, performances, educational programs, historical storytelling, arts and culture events, civic engagement activities, and other creative initiatives that reflect the spirit of America’s 250th anniversary.
Additional funding opportunities may be available for cross-town collaborations and regional events, encouraging organizations and communities to work together to create larger-scale impact throughout the Valley.
“The Valley Celebrates America’s 250 is an opportunity for residents, organizations, schools, historical societies and community groups to reflect on our shared history while creating meaningful experiences for future generations,” shared The Valley Community Foundation. “We are excited to support ideas that bring communities together and showcase the Valley’s contributions to the American story.”
Grant funds may be used to support a wide range of project-related expenses, allowing flexibility for organizations and community leaders to bring innovative and community-centered ideas to life.
Apply for Funding
Community organizations, schools, municipalities, nonprofits, and resident-led initiatives are encouraged to apply. Grants will be awarded until funds are depleted.
Applications are available here:
Valley Celebrates America’s 250 Grant Application
Submit Your America 250 Events
Community members and organizations are also encouraged to submit and promote their Valley Celebrates America’s 250 events through the regional calendar to help build awareness and participation across the Valley.
Add your event here:
The Valley Celebrates America’s 250 Event Calendar
For more information about Valley Celebrates America’s 250 and upcoming opportunities, community members are encouraged to connect with the Valley Community Foundation.
Grant funds may be used to support a wide range of project-related expenses associated with Valley Celebrates America’s 250. VCF aims to provide flexible support to help bring community-centered ideas to life.
Funding is available to nonprofit organizations, municipalities, libraries, historical societies, and other eligible community-based entities.
While grants may not be awarded directly to individuals, collaborative projects led by individuals are eligible when administered through an appropriate organizational partner.
The Valley Celebrates America’s 250 seeks to support a diverse range of programming, including but not limited to educational events, historical exhibits, cultural performances, public art, storytelling initiatives, and community conversations.
Projects should reflect on the Valley’s history, celebrate shared values, and be uplifting local stories that connect the Valley region to the broader American experience.
VCF encourages funding requests that are inclusive, accessible, and engaging for a wide audience, and that foster a deeper understanding of the past while inspiring civic pride and community connection in the present.