Community grant helps build connection and support in rural Strathcona County

Sunny weather, cold drinks, friends, neighbours and a large yard with a pool makes for the perfect setting to host a memorable BBQ. On a warm summer evening in 2024, Anne and Gerri, two neighbors in the Adam Lily Acres community in rural Strathcona County, did just that. With funds received from the Strathcona County Community Grants program, they hosted a BBQ that brought their community together for a night of fun and connection, with a side of community safety.

Surprisingly, hosting a BBQ to foster connection was not the sole reason for Anne and Gerri’s creative Community Grants application. The BBQ’s goal was broader, it was also an opportunity to bring the Adam Lily Acres community together to build positive change through sharing a newly developed community directory.

“The idea for a community directory took root a couple of years ago. In the event of a crisis, we thought it could be an excellent resource for our community to use to support each other,” explained Anne. “And with the recent rise of wildfires, the urgency to complete it became so much more real and important for us.”

“With some door knocking and legwork, and a quick buy-in from neighbours, we completed the community directory. Once we had that, we got to work on the BBQ,” added Gerri.

The duo used the funds received from the Community Grants to organize the BBQ and set the stage for handing out the newly made community directory. With close to 80 people attending, the event was a huge success. It was a day filled with food, poolside fun, lawn games, rides in a classic car and fundraising for the Strathcona County Food Bank. The community directory was shared with neighbours and the fire department, ensuring from now on that if members of the community needed help, they could get it.

“The benefits of the BBQ surpassed our expectations. The event has sparked ongoing social activities and conversations about strengthening the community,” said Gerri. “Neighbours began to walk together, socialize, and support each other in various initiatives. One resident even alerted others to an asphalt scam.”

When asked about the process of applying for the Community Grants, Anne shared, “If you are interested in applying, make sure you read the instructions. The Community Connections Grants process worked well and played a crucial role in making this event possible.”

The story of Adam Lily Acres embodies the essence of the Community Connections and Community Change Grants. It highlights how a simple idea to build connection and support, fueled by a grant, can lead to profound and lasting change.

Fostering safe, supported and connected communities is at the heart of Strathcona County’s Community Grants program. Applications are now open for the 2024 grants, the deadline to apply is Thursday, May 1, 2025. You can learn more about the Community Grants and apply at strathcona.ca/CommunityGrants or call 780-464-4044.