FREDERICK, Md. – Nonprofit community groups looking to improve or build new recreational spaces are encouraged to apply for the Division of Parks and Recreation’s Fiscal Year 2026 Community Grant Program. In partnership with the Frederick County Parks and Recreation Commission, this grant program provides funds to eligible organizations for recreational facilities for people who live in the County.
Organizations may apply between June 2 and August 15, 2025. Groups that can apply include homeowners’ associations, civic and community organizations, service clubs, sports leagues, and recreation councils. A budget of $100,000 has been approved for the Fiscal Year 2026 Community Grants and each applicant may ask for up to $25,000.
Grants can be used to improve existing or build new recreation areas, however grants cannot be used for regular maintenance. For example, funds could be used to demolish and replace a playground, but not for maintenance of that playground.
The land where the recreation area is located must be owned or used by the organization. Grants cannot be used for projects on federal, state, municipal, or county-owned land. Grant funds will be provided before the project construction and can help pay for materials, equipment, and hired workers. Groups can also use volunteers to help with building.
Project must be completed, and all Community Grant Closeout documents must be submitted to the Division of Parks and Recreation within two years of the award year. For Fiscal Year 2026 grants, this deadline will be June 30, 2027.
To learn more about the Community Grant Program and to see if your organization’s project can qualify, visit www.Recreater.com/CommunityGrant. Applications must be submitted online by 11:59 p.m. on Friday, August 15, 2025. Preliminary grant funding decisions will be shared in October 2025.
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Contact: Adam Sees
Fiscal Supervisor
Division of Parks & Recreation
301-600-2383