Together, with the support of our donors, the DeKalb County Community Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in DeKalb County. Grants from the Community Foundation come from a variety of grant programs. Each program is unique in how to apply, who it supports, and the impact it creates. So how do these grants impact the community in which we live? Learn more in this grant in action story below. Thank you, donors, for making grants like these possible! Funding for Community Needs Grants is made possible through donor generosity to Community Impact Funds at the Foundation.

THE NEED

See this grant in action story in the 2023 Annual Report!

In 2022, the Town of Cortland Parks Advisory Committee was re-commissioned to receive input and prioritize improvements and needs at town properties. Resident feedback indicated that parks and recreational amenities were at the top of the list. The town implemented various improvement projects, including a large stormwater basin to a recreational area for fishing and water activities, and completed the first segment of a bike trail that will eventually allow residents to walk or bike to DeKalb and Sycamore. In addition, there was a request for ADA play equipment with sensory features, a feature not present in town parks.

THE SUPPORT

In spring 2023, Cortland applied for a Community Needs Grant and received $19,200 in funding to add inclusive playground equipment to McPhillips Park, a popular neighborhood park in Cortland.

THE IMPACT

The Public Works Department purchased and installed the equipment shortly after. The new equipment, which includes an inclusive whirl, safety swings, and the required safety surface, is operational and in use by the community.