Parks & Public Space Initiative/Margaret Annis Boys Trust Fund

The 2025 Parks & Public Space Initiative, administered under the Margaret Annis Boys Trust, offers grants for beautification, development, and activation projects on public lands in the Oklahoma City Metro area. Funding of up to $40,000 per project is available for eligible entities, including neighborhood groups, 501(c)(3) nonprofits, and local or state government agencies. These grants primarily support tree planting, landscaping, and related enhancements, such as soil amendments, irrigation, and shade structures, emphasizing projects that increase public engagement, recreational use, and community stewardship of accessible public spaces. To be considered, applicants must submit a Letter of Intent (LOI) by December 5, 2024, followed by a full application by December 12, 2024. Applicants are encouraged to attend an informational meeting on November 6, 2024, and consult with local authorities if the project impacts city-managed spaces. Additionally, all projects must ensure accessibility to the public, complete within one year, and include a volunteer component, with volunteers involved in planning, implementation, or ongoing maintenance. The application process includes submitting a project narrative, a detailed budget, a site plan, and matching funds or in-kind contributions (though no minimum percentage is specified). Grantees must report project outcomes, participate in a post-award meeting, and submit a mid-term progress check-in. This initiative does not fund construction, sports fields, playgrounds, fencing, or ongoing maintenance. For questions or additional guidance, applicants may contact the Parks Program Manager.