Town of Peace River allocated the first set of Council Grants to Organizations recipients for the year, experiencing its highest-ever number of applicants in one program intake.
“It’s a positive sign,” says Mayor Shelly Shannon.
“A high number of applications indicates that our non-profit sector is active, engaged, and growing. That’s something council is very encouraged to see.”
In the first intake of the year, 12 non-profit organizations submitted applications to receive grant money for their various endeavours. With only a $50,000 budget and $86,680 worth of applications in its first intake, council had some tough decisions to make.
“Administration uses an established evaluation framework to review applications and provide recommendations,” explains Shannon.
“Council then reviews those recommendations and makes final decisions, including adjusting allocations where appropriate. It is always challenging to distribute limited funds among many deserving organizations.”
In the end, 10 Acre Shaker Festival, Alberta Pond Hockey, Community Futures – SongRise, Peace River Boating Association, Peace River Curling Club, and Royal Canadian Legion all received $5,000 each for their projects. Peace Association for Lifelong Learning received $900, Peace River Hockey Tour earned $1,000, Peace River Wahoos Winter Swim Club $900, Peace River Rotaract- River Daze $10,300, Tri River Triathlon $6,000, and Underground Music Society $900.
“Given the number of strong applications, council felt it was most fair and impactful to distribute funding across all applicants,” explains Shannon.
“Even modest contributions can make a meaningful difference for organizations working hard to deliver programs and events in our community.”
Shannon adds non-profit organizations play a vital role in enhancing quality of life.
“They create events, programs, and opportunities that bring people together and attract visitors to Peace River,” she says.
“This activity supports local businesses, increases tourism, and strengthens community spirit. Sports and event tourism, in particular, continues to be a growing and valuable economic driver.”
Shannon says council allocated a larger amount of funds to events that are large-scale, high-impact initiatives, requiring significant planning and resources.
“They draw thousands of visitors and generate meaningful economic activity for local businesses,” she explains.
“Rotaract River Days, in particular, has become a cornerstone event, similar in spirit to past major festivals, and plays an important role in bringing the community together. Supporting events of this scale helps ensure their continued success and long-term benefit to Peace River.”
Funding for the Grants to Organizations has been fully allocated for the year after just the first intake.
Shannon says additional applications will likely need to wait until the next budget cycle to receive funding, unless council chooses to revisit and expand the program.
She explains many non-profits face ongoing challenges. particularly with volunteer recruitment and rising costs. Financial support helps offset these pressures and allows organizations to continue offering valuable programs and events.
“While the return on investment may not always be direct, the broader impact is significant,” Shannon says.
“A strong non-profit sector makes Peace River a more vibrant and attractive place to live, which in turn supports population growth
Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter