Credit plaque at Maryland Hall - Founders Green
The following list includes criteria we consider when evaluating proposals:
- Space must be welcoming and inclusive of all faiths, beliefs and cultures
- The space itself or a designated area within the greater space must be designed to offer an invitation and opportunity for personal reflection and contemplation.
- A dedicated project leader and/or a small committed cadre of supporters
- Plan must have a strong focus on obtaining the input of the community of users of the space
- Should include a community outreach plan to maximize impact and use of the space
- Letters of support from organizations and institutions located near the space
- Make note of co-funders or past funders
- Certification or application to become a certified wildlife habitat
- Unique, out-of-the-box idea
- Long lasting effects and long term opportunities envisioned for the space
- Describe design elements which will invite users into the space.
- High volunteer participation
- Long-term maintenance plan
- Access to water
- Ownership of land at project location or written authorization from the landowner
- Reasonable budget
Eligible organizations must be:
- 501(c)(3)
- Located in Annapolis, Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, or Washington, DC.
What we do not fund:
- Capital campaigns
- "Landscaping" (we do fund materials to create a defined space, which in turn includes landscaping)
- Salaries
- On-going maintenance
What we have learned:
- A small amount of money can create a great space
- Projects that honor a person, historical event, or a cause work well
- In a private effort, there can still be great community involvement
- The more open a space, the more inclusive and dynamic it will be
- Challenge grants work best
- It takes time for a garden to grow
