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Friends of the Verde River is delighted to announce that the River Friendly Living Grants are open! Friends of the Verde River is inviting homeowners, businesses, and organizations to submit their proposals for sustainability projects in 2024. This initiative aims to support projects that contribute to sustainable water supply, clean water, healthy habitat, and community connection to water.
From August 1, 2023, until October 31, 2023, interested parties can submit their proposals to be considered for the River Friendly Living Grants. Funding recipients will be announced in December 2023, and funding will be distributed in January 2024.
In the previous year, nine community projects were successfully funded, including rain harvesting projects, installation of a flow meter at Smelter Town Brewery, trail building, and community educational programming. These initiatives have had a significant positive impact on the local environment and water conservation efforts.
“We are thrilled to once again offer the River Friendly Living Grants and collaborate with homeowners, businesses, and other organizations dedicated to making a difference in our community’s sustainability,” said Nancy Steele, Executive Director at Friends of the Verde River. “Through these grants, we hope to encourage and support innovative projects that align with our mission to protect the Verde River and its ecosystem.”
This year’s grant program provides opportunities for homeowners to apply for grants of up to $1,000, while businesses, agricultural producers, and organizations can apply for grants of up to $5,000. The aim is to extend the reach of the River Friendly Living Grants to benefit more projects and initiatives striving for environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.
One satisfied grant recipient from the previous year, Jessica and Ross Mehlman, homeowners in Rio Verde Foothills, expressed their gratitude for the grant that helped them acquire rain barrels for their property. “We live just two blocks from the Tonto National Forest and want to do our part to preserve the beautiful desert landscape. Little did we know how important those rain barrels would become as the water situation in our area became tenuous,” they remarked.
To further support potential applicants, Friends of the Verde River will host a mixer at the Copper Jackalope in October. The mixer will provide an opportunity to workshop project proposals and access valuable resources, guiding applicants through the submission process.
Isaac Dudley, Flows Project Manager with Friends of the Verde River emphasized, “Whether you are a homeowner, business owner, or have a unique project idea, we encourage everyone with a passion for the environment to reach out for support and assistance. Together, we can make a significant impact on the conservation and sustainability of the Verde River.”
Friends of the Verde River is committed to fostering partnerships with more than 30 businesses to offer these vital community grants. By funding projects for homeowners, businesses, agricultural producers, new developments, and communities, the organization strives to empower initiatives that contribute positively to the local environment and community.
For more information about the River Friendly Living Grants and how to submit a proposal, please visit verderiver.org/get-involved or contact:
Isaac Dudley
Flows Project Manager
Email: IsaacD@VerdeRiver.org
Phone: 928-641-6013
