The Anchorage Park Foundation opened its annual challenge grant program Thursday, offering up to $300,000 in matching funds for community-driven park and trail projects across the municipality.

The program matches community investment dollar-for-dollar with support from the Rasmuson Foundation. Communities can contribute cash, in-kind donations, or volunteer hours calculated at a national rate. The foundation increased award amounts this year and extended project completion timelines to two years.

Beth Nordlund, executive director of the Anchorage Park Foundation, told the Community and Economic Development Committee that the program has historically generated significant community investment beyond the initial match.

"The community investment over the years, we have all the numbers, but often people overmatch it 3 to 1," Nordlund said. "So this $300,000 investment in people's hopes and dreams for neighborhood parks and trails is just a really good opportunity to get community engagement."

The challenge grants accept applications for trail and public land projects. This year the foundation expanded eligibility to include projects on land adjacent to public property, not just municipal parks and trails.

Nordlund described the program as more than infrastructure improvement. She said the grants have transformed neighborhood dynamics by giving residents a shared purpose.

"I have seen it multiple times transform a group of neighbors who do not know one another are working towards the same thing," Nordlund said. "I have had multiple neighborhoods basically tell me that they were a divided community, and now they have something to work on together."

A committee member who has worked on a challenge grant echoed that assessment. "I have also worked on a challenge grant and yeah, I definitely can say it brings people together and it gives them something to, a goal to achieve together," the member said.

The foundation works closely with the Parks and Recreation Department to evaluate which projects are feasible and fundable. For applicants without nonprofit status, the foundation can serve as a fiscal sponsor, managing funds and paying bills directly.

A grantee kickoff is scheduled for May 15. The foundation has not yet announced the location, as Town Square Park will be unavailable due to construction.

Nordlund encouraged residents to contact the foundation before applying. She said professional guidance helps applicants shape stronger proposals and increases their chances of receiving funding.

Applications are open now. Information is available at the Anchorage Park Foundation website or by contacting [email protected].