Neighborhood Get-Togethers

UPDATE: The 2025 season of Neighborhood Get-Togethers will run from May 1^st to October 31^st. Please review the newly updated criteria for the 2025 season.

Small grant program for neighborhood gatherings

These grants, ranging from $100 to $500, are intended to support projects or events that bring neighbors together around a shared purpose or activity. Block parties, cleanups, supplies for a neighborhood volunteer project — these are just a few examples of projects that are eligible for funding. How will your neighborhood get together?

Neighborhood Get-Togethers: Grant Process

			1. Brainstorm ideas with neighbors.
			2. Submit application.
			3. Get approval and complete contract.
			4. Get together for the event/project.
			5. Submit evaluation, receipts, and photos.
			6. Receive reimbursement.

Details:

• Neighborhood groups are invited to apply to receive a grant of either $100, $300, or $500. 
  • Please note that a limited number of $500 grants will be awarded at the discretion of the department (based on the quality of the application, neighborhood match, and the project's reach/impact).
• Apply anytime from May 1 to October 31, 2025, until funds for the year are expended. Applications are received and reviewed on a rolling basis. 
• Projects will be reimbursed after the final evaluation, receipts, and photos have been submitted.

• A block, HOA, or neighborhood organization may only receive the grant once per calendar year.

Requirements:

• Applicant must be a Lakewood resident.
• Applications should be submitted at least two weeks prior to event.
• Event must be open to all neighbors.
• If your proposal is approved, you must complete a contract.
• Provide a follow-up evaluation within two weeks of the date of the event, including:
  • Completed evaluation form.
  • All receipts from items purchased for the event.
  • At least five photographs of the event.

Restrictions:

• Projects cannot occur outside of Lakewood city limits.
• Projects must have proper permitting and adhere to City codes and regulations.
• Projects cannot be organized by or associated with a business; educational, political or religious organizations.
• Projects cannot be commercial or fundraising events.
• Funds cannot be used for:
• • Prizes, gift cards, field trips or admissions.
  • Entertainment (e.g., live music, performances, etc.).
  • Alcohol, cigarettes or any illegal substances.
  • Decorations.
  • Private property improvements or personal acquisitions. 

Examples of eligible Get-Togethers:

• Food for a neighborhood BBQ, ice cream social or block party.
• Plants, soil and mulch to jump-start a neighborhood garden.
• Supplies for a neighborhood cleanup and shirts for volunteers.
• Little Free Library, community pantry or seed bank project.
• Neighborhood entryway beautification project and breakfast.
• Memorial tree planting event.

Ready to apply? Use the online application below. If you have any questions, please contact neighborhoods@lakewood.org.