Media contact:  Kelliann Amico, Interstate Bridge Replacement Program, Public Information Officer: 503-897-9218 (Oregon), 360-859-0494 (Washington), 888-503-6735 (toll-free) | kelliann.amico@interstatebridge.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Aug. 10, 2023

Interstate Bridge Replacement program opens second round of community engagement miniature grants

Grant program offers funding to facilitate engagement and expand program involvement for equity priority communities

Vancouver, WA –The bi-state Interstate Bridge Replacement program is opening its second round of small-scale, low-barrier grants for community-based organizations. Eligible organizations may apply through Sept. 10 for funds to partner with the IBR program and support community engagement efforts with the members they serve.

The IBR program’s first small-scale, low-barrier grant program was implemented in 2021 to cultivate relationships with local community groups and assist them in expanding community engagement efforts with equity-priority communities. This second round of small-scale, low-barrier grants will provide community organizations resources at varying levels in exchange for support extending the IBR program’s outreach through their networks. Eligible organizations do not need to be transportation focused to qualify for funding and organizations that received funding through the first round of grants are welcome to apply again.

“Meaningful and intentional feedback from those who have typically been excluded from the process of designing and building large infrastructure projects is essential to the success of this program,” said Greg Johnson, IBR program administrator. “We recognize and value the trusting relationships that exist between community-based organizations and equity-priority communities, and we believe it is a ‘win-win’ to collaborate with these organizations to extend our reach and be certain everyone has the opportunity to have their voice heard.”

Equity-priority communities for the IBR program are defined as those who experience or have experienced discrimination and exclusion based on identity, such as:

• BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color).
• People with disabilities.
• Communities with limited English proficiency.
• Lower income and houseless individuals and families.
• Immigrants and refugees.
• Young people and older adults.

Organizations that serve equity-priority communities in or near the IBR program area (in Portland, Oregon and Vancouver, Washington), are invited to participate. Those selected must have multiple modes of engagement with their member base (social media, email, phones and/or newsletters) and a history or experience in community organizing. Recipients must also be a legally incorporated nonprofit organization for at least one year at the time of application. Grants will be awarded in exchange for conducting outreach and engagement activity that is focused on the IBR program.

More information and the grant program application can be accessed online. The application period is open through September.
Questions about the grant program or other topics may be sent to info@interstatebridge.org