Community Funding Project Invites Proposals

The Sewanee Community Funding Project Committee invites individuals and groups to submit proposals for projects that enhance the community and improve the quality of life for area residents. 

Application forms are available at the Sewanee post office or by sending an email to <SewaneeFundingPro​ject@gmail.com>. The deadline for submissions is March 1.

In the summer of 2014, the Sewanee Community Council approved increasing the municipal service fee paid by all leaseholders to generate funds to be used by the Community Council for physical improvements and amenities on the Domain. Charged with the task of deciding how those funds will be used, the new committee will receive and evaluate proposals. The Council makes the final approval of the committee’s recommendations.

The $10,000 in funds can be used for “practical, functional or educational purposes or somewhere in between,” said Sarah Marhevsky, chair of the committee. “Do you want the sidewalk that goes almost to Wiggins to go all the way? Do you want to see a bike repair kiosk downtown or some more flowers somewhere? What else is on your wish list?”

Applicants submitting proposals can identify new projects, as well as projects that are part of an already existing initiative undertaken by a group or organization.

Seven projects were approved last year, the first year of the program. $10,000 was awarded in 2015.

Four of last year’s projects have been completed: creation of the Robin Room at the Sewanee Community Center for free activities; installation of a special-needs swing at the Woodlands Park; assistance with improvements at Thurmond Library in Otey Parish House; and support for the new playground in Elliott Park. 

Projects yet to be completed include a Girl Scout Silver Award project to update kiosks at three Perimeter Trail locations; a Little Free Library and butterfly garden planned for Sewanee Elementary School; and improvements at the Sewanee pound.

The application form asks how the project will benefit Sewanee and its residents, the estimated cost and budget, who will be doing the work and who will be accountable for completion. For more information email <se​waneepro​jectfunding@gmail.com>.