Our province is set to mark its 150th anniversary in 2020 and the Manitoba 150 committee has three ways for Manitobans to participate.

 

The first is with the Build 150 fund. Through local community foundations, groups can apply for funding to create legacy projects.

 

Monique LaCoste, co-chair of Manitoba 150, explains how to get involved.

 

“We’re going to have a pot of about $2.5 million across the province and people are going to be able to apply to their community foundation - so the people of Thompson can do that in their area - and they would receive and review applications andd approve them based on community need.”

 

LaCoste says Build 150 projects can be for new structures and initiatives or to refurbish existing ones.

 

Next is Celebrate 150. Communities can access partial funding for one-time events such as festivals, food fairs or concerts.

 

Grant applications are available at manitoba150.com with the deadline being November 12th to apply.

 

LaCoste shares how the funds can be used.

 

“We’re looking for one-time event-based initiatives. These are picnics or food festivals or something a little different for your community. So in the name of Manitoba 150, we’re inviting people to think a little differently and come up with great opportunities to engage their community.”

 

Last is Honour 150, which will honour 150 Manitobans who have made outstanding contributions to their communities. For all the details on nomination criteria, go to manitoba150.com.

 

Deadline to nominate a worthy volunteer is January 31st.