Improvement Grants
Farm Credit Services of Illinois awards up to sixty $250 community improvement grants annually to 4-H clubs and FFA chapters seeking to establish projects that will make their communities better places to live. Eligible clubs and chapters must be located in the 60 county region served by Farm Credit Services of Illinois.
To determine a worthwhile project, 4-H clubs and FFA chapters are encouraged to discuss the needs of their local communities with one another, or visit with other community members and leaders. Groups should also consider how collaborating with other community organizations could be beneficial to the success of their project. The following list includes examples of projects previously completed 4-H and FFA groups.
• Develop a roadside park.
• Implement a tree planting program.
• Improve and maintain an abandoned cemetery.
• Develop a bicycle, horse, or hiking trail.
• Construct and maintain a community bulletin board.
• Set up a community self-guided nature trail.
• Provide landscaping at a fairgrounds, park, or near a community building.
• Clean and repair a community church.
• Build playground equipment that is designed for children with disabilities.
• Establish a community recreation park facility.
NOTE: Applications for the 2014 Community Improvement Grants will be available late December 2013. Questions about the grants can be sent to info@fcsillinois.com.