The Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation (NCCF) is accepting applications to the biennial "Community Pride Program." Funding is available to community groups for projects that promote a sense of pride and worth in the northern Chautauqua County community. The deadline to apply is March 1.

Community based, not-for-profit organizations such as garden clubs, service clubs, church groups and civic improvement associations are eligible to apply.

The NCCF anticipates a competitive grant round for Community Pride funding. Projects that most exemplify community pride and encourage active citizen participation will be considered for funding.

Past grant examples have been beautification projects, signage, park benches, tree plantings and community gardens.

A one to one match is required. Grant requests will be considered in the range of $100 to $500. A match could be in dollars, volunteer hours, supplies, etc.

These funds are made available through the generosity of people who have made gifts to unrestricted endowments within the community foundation.

The NCCF hopes that the "Community Pride Project" will spark grassroots efforts that will continue on their own merits.

To be considered, submit a letter of interest and request, outlining the necessary information, to include name of the organization or group making the request, contact person and telephone number, description of the project, cost breakdown, location, completion date, and how matching funds will be raised.

Letters should be submitted by March 1 to the attention of Eileen Dunn, Program Coordinator, Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation, 212 Lake Shore Drive West, Dunkirk, NY 14048.

Please address your questions to the Foundation office at 366-4892 or edunn@nccfoundation.org.

The Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation was incorporated in 1986 as a tax-exempt charitable organization.

Since its establishment, the NCCF has distributed more than $7.5 million into the community through its various grant programs.

It is an organization inherently committed to furthering its mission of enriching the northern Chautauqua community and encouraging local philanthropy.