The Oregon City Metro Enhancement Grant Program Committee, coordinated by the City's Economic Development Department, met June 15 and awarded more than $400,000 in grants to 13 local nonprofits.
The grant money is generated through an intergovernmental agreement between Oregon City and Metro. The City receives $1 in funding for every ton of solid waste accepted at the Metro South Transfer Station on Washington St. That money is then granted to non-profits, schools or local governments for improvement efforts.
“Aside from assisting businesses with growth and just survival, the Economic Development Department of Oregon City awards hundreds of thousands of dollars to support non-profit organizations with implementing projects in Oregon City that enhance the community’s quality of life,” said Oregon City Economic Development Director James Graham. “Nonprofit organizations have big missions but small budgets and do amazing work. From operating drug awareness programs to establishing art exhibitions, we applaud them and their work,” he said.
A pair of grants were awarded to organizations focused on art. The Oregon City Arts Commission received $15,900 for the Oregon City Art Piece Replacement effort, while the Clackamas Arts Alliance was granted $50,000 for their “Supporting a Vibrant Arts Community in Oregon City” initiative.
Four of the proposals focused on the city’s youth. Clackamas Women’s Services received $50,000 for supporting youth safety. The Clackamas River Basin Council was awarded $43,526 for youth workforce development efforts along with their riparian tree rescue work. OC Together received a grant to raise awareness of the dangers of fentanyl among young people and parents in the community, and the Mary Rose Foundation received a second year of funding to further support the Community Mentoring program with Oregon City High School.
Two more applicants, two additional non-profits that currently participate in the program, Friends of the Ermatinger House and Soulflags, were granted an extension.
The Metro Enhancement Grant Committee is comprised of the Oregon City Commission and two additional community volunteers.
Click/tap the image below for the full list of grant awardees.