Up to $100,000 Available for Projects Focused on Places of Historical Significance
LEWIS COUNTY — The Northern New York Community Foundation is pleased to announce a funding opportunity of up to $100,000 to celebrate the rich historical heritage of Lewis County through support for historic preservation and restoration projects.
Historic preservation holds significant value by preserving history, fostering community identity, and offering economic and environmental benefits, contributing to the quality of life in our region. It helps residents understand our past, connect with our heritage, and create a stronger sense of place while adding character to the landscape of our communities.
“We know our local historic properties help enhance the beauty and character of our cities, towns, and villages. We are excited to offer this type of funding as a way to build an even stronger sense of community,” said Rande S. Richardson, Community Foundation executive director. “We are grateful for our Lewis County donors over the years who have entrusted us to support these types of initiatives.”
Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and churches located entirely within Lewis County, that plan to undertake historic preservation or restoration. Projects should focus on the preservation or restoration of places of legitimate historical significance and significant historical community landmarks. For this program, cemeteries are not eligible for consideration.
Applicants should also adhere to the following criteria:
- Properties slated for historic preservation or restoration must be wholly owned by the applicant organization
- Funding is available for projects that specifically address the exterior of existing structures or elements
- Funding priority will be for properties easily accessed and enjoyed by the public
- No grants will be awarded for additions or modifications that substantially alter the historic nature and character of the property
A total of up to $100,000 is available for the application period. Complete grant proposals must be submitted no later than 5 p.m. on Friday, July 18, 2025, through the Foundation’s online grant portal at bit.ly/grant-portal.
The Foundation will accommodate several grants that are meaningful within the total funding available. Successful applicants may receive full or partial funding, with consideration of the priorities previously described and the number of worthy projects.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the Community Foundation to discuss the amount being requested prior to submission. Requests will not be considered for work commencing before September 30, 2025. Reimbursement for prior expenses will not be considered. Email Kraig Everard, director of philanthropy, kraig@nnycf.org, or call 315-782-7110.
The Community Foundation will notify all applicants of the status of their grant proposal no later than October 17, 2025. Funding will be disbursed in advance of the start of the project, based on demonstrated project need and timeline.
About the Northern New York Community Foundation
Since 1929, the Northern New York Community Foundation has invested in improving and enriching the quality of life for all in communities across Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties.
Through partnerships with businesses and organizations, charitable foundations, and generous families and individual donors, the Community Foundation awards grants and scholarships from an endowment and collection of funds that benefit the region. Its commitment to donors helps individuals achieve their charitable objectives now and for generations to come by preserving and honoring legacies of community philanthropy while inspiring others.
The Community Foundation is a resource for local charitable organizations, donors, professional advisors and nonprofit organizations. It also works to bring people together at its permanent home in the Northern New York Philanthropy Center to discuss challenges our communities face and find creative solutions that strengthen the region and make it a great place to live, work, and play.