Parks & Rec opens applications for challenge grants
May 18, 2022

KNOXVILLE -- The City of Knoxville Parks and Recreation Department is now accepting applications for its 2022 Challenge Grant Program, which offers grants up to $2,500 to nonprofit organizations with project ideas for public parks, recreation facilities or greenways within city limits. The 2022 Challenge Grant Application is now available online.

In past years, grants recipients have used funds for playground equipment, water fountains, benches and landscaping. Starting this year, grants may also be used to produce activities in City parks and greenways. For instance, grants can provide matching funds for various fitness classes such as yoga, tai chi, aerobics or other activities. Passive programming for activities such as painting and birdwatching will also be considered.

Qualifying organizations are designated 501(c)3, 501(c)4 and 501(c)6 status community groups, homeowner associations, schools, Scout troops and other organizations. Grant recipients will be reimbursed 50 percent of the cost of a single project, up to $2,500.

The City of Knoxville Parks and Recreation Department has been awarding challenge grants to nonprofit groups for more than 25 years.

Important dates:

• Application deadline is 4:30 p.m. Friday, June 24, 2022

• Award notifications will be made in July 2022

• Project work must be completed by Friday, January 20, 2023

Visit www.KnoxvilleTN.gov/parks for more information about Parks and Recreation programs and facilities. For questions regarding the Parks and Recreation Challenge Grants, please call 311 or 865-215-4311.