Community Grant Program

Frederick County Parks and Recreation, through its Parks and Recreation Commission (FCPRC), has established a grant program for eligible non-profit community organizations that provides funds for recreational facilities for county residents.

Eligible Organizations

 The following organizations are eligible and may apply for grants:

  • Homeowners Associations:  Homeowners Associations have covenants and bylaws.  Lots and common areas are platted and recorded. They are established during the subdivision process and have the power to assess and collect fees from all property owners for maintenance and capital improvements to the common areas.  Membership is mandatory for the lot owners.
  • Civic / Community / Service Organizations:  Civic/Community/Service Organizations represent the residents of a loosely defined geographic area.  They are primarily formed to promote the interests of the community and may be responsible for maintenance and capital improvements for selected areas of the community.
  • Athletic Associations:  Athletic Associations are non-profit and represent a loosely defined geographic area in the community whose primary goal is to provide athletic programs for its members.  Membership is voluntary and dues and participation fees are assessed according to adopted by-laws.  Programs are oriented to a single athletic activity or encompass several athletic activities.
  • Recreation Councils:  A Recreation Council is a group of citizens who are interested in furthering recreation opportunities either within a geographical area of the County or a special interest category (i.e. senior and nature programs).  All Recreation Councils are recognized by the Frederick County Government to provide complementary and cooperative Recreation and Park opportunities for Frederick County Citizens.

Purpose

Grants are for the purpose of improving existing or adding recreation amenities or construction of small structures (i.e. pavilions) on land owned or utilized by the organization. Funding is not allowed on land owned by Federal, State or Municipality or Frederick County Governments. Funds will be distributed prior to the project construction and can be applied towards:

  • Cost of Materials
  • Cost of Equipment
  • Contracted Labor

Construction labor may be provided by a combination of volunteers (site preparation, clean up, landscape) and/or paid contractors.

Annual maintenance needs for existing facilities and tools are not an eligible expense. Projects must be completed and reports properly submitted within 2 years of the award year. If submitting an application as a non-profit, proof of status will be required.

Application Criteria

Applications are evaluated by a sub-committee of the FCPRC according to the following criteria:

  • Recreational and Community Value
  • Project and Planning
  • Site Plan / Master Plan
  • Local Contribution 

Click the link to view an example:  Score Sheet Example

For additional information please email:  fcprcommunitygrant@frederickcountymd.gov

Project Qualification Questionnaire Header

Interested organizations should fill out the project questionnaire to determine if your project qualifies for Community Grant funding. Upon review, Frederick County Parks and Recreation staff will reach out with further instructions.