Neighbors in Action (NIA)

The Neighbors in Action (NIA) program is a community grant initiative supported by the City of Rochester, ESL Federal Credit Union, and the Rochester Area Community Foundation. This grant program aims to support community-driven projects by providing resources and small grants to neighborhood associations, block clubs, and other community organizations within the City of Rochester. The overarching goal of NIA is to make Rochester a more connected city by engaging residents in improving their neighborhoods. It encourages participation from anyone passionate about strengthening the community and addressing local issues. The grant awards range from $250 to $10,000. The NIA program is open to 501(c)(3) organizations or 509(a)(1) public organizations. Organizations that do not have this classification must have a fiscal sponsor to apply. Eligible organizations must fall into one of the following categories: neighborhood associations, other community organizations, or block clubs. Neighborhood associations are defined as having a broader mission and covering a wider range of issues than block clubs. Other community organizations can include business associations, tenant or landlord associations, youth or faith groups, and other groups focused on specific neighborhoods. Block clubs, which are typically organized by residents of a single street or block, are also eligible to apply for the grant. Grants awarded through NIA must be used for projects benefiting residents in the City of Rochester. The funding is intended to support community initiatives that foster connection and engagement within neighborhoods. The application deadline for this funding opportunity is February 28, 2025. Future opportunities will be announced in the quarterly e-newsletter, "Grant Opportunities," which interested applicants can subscribe to. Once the application period closes, decisions will be announced on March 31, 2025. The grant application process is managed through an online grant portal, where applicants can submit their requests. Assistance is available for applicants who need help with the application process, and inquiries can be directed to the respective Neighborhood Service Centers in different quadrants of Rochester. Each quadrant has a dedicated contact for the NIA program: the Northwest, Northeast, Southwest, and Southeast Quadrant Neighborhood Service Centers. For further support related to the Community Foundation grants portal, applicants can email grants@racf.org. The NIA program is a part of a long history of neighborhood-focused initiatives. The NeighborGood Fund, established in 1993, was the precursor to the NIA program. Since 1998, the NeighborGood Grant program has awarded hundreds of grants to support various neighborhood projects, including beautification efforts, street festivals, community newsletters, and murals. In 2024, the program was expanded, with an increased focus on funding and support for grantees. NIA represents a further evolution of this effort, with a broader scope and greater community involvement.