Olds, Alta. June 3, 2024 – Several local community groups have received a boost from the Mountain View Power (MVP) Community Grant Program, funded by designated profits from MVP. The grant committee made their selections from the Spring 2024 applications, choosing several exceptional groups which met its guidelines for funding. As a community-driven organization, Mountain View Power has been a positive influence on Olds and surrounding areas by allocating $75,000, the most given so far in one term.
The Spring granting session saw a total requested funding amount of $223,500, with $75,000 available to share with community organizations. 11 eligible funding applications were received, which were carefully considered by the volunteer evaluation committee. The following groups were chosen to receive funding:
$20,000 - Ecole Olds High School Leadership: You Matter Outdoor Wellness Space
This student-led initiative will create a ‘You Matter’ area on the high school property, consisting of a concrete pad and sidewalk with an accessible picnic table. This is intended to further positive mental health in the school.
$10,000 - Kiwanis Club of Olds: Warming Shack at Centennial Park
This facility will enhance the use of the new outdoor rink year-round by providing a space to change footwear for skaters and pickle ball players and offering shelter in the winter. The additional tables and benches will offer space for small community gatherings and family parties.
$35,000 - Mountain View Emergency Shelter: Kirsten’s Place Bedroom Furnishing
These recipients will use the funds to purchase beds, including mattresses, bed frames and bedding essentials, and furniture for the bedrooms within Kirsten’s Place, the new shelter being constructed in town. It is anticipated that they will be providing safety to 306 individuals per year.
$5,000- Reed Ranch School Playground
Reed Ranch School Parent Advisory Council sought funding to construct a new playground on the school grounds. Reed Ranch School is a public school within the Chinook’s Edge School division, about 17 km east of Olds, and provides learning for kindergarten to grade 6.
$5,000 - Rotary Club of Olds – Olds Creek Food Forest
This Rotary initiative will provide a fenced “Food Forest” to the north and east of the Rotary Athletic Park that surrounds Olds Creek. Funds will be used to purchase perimeter fence and signage, variety of fruit trees/berry bushes and landscaping materials.
ABOUT THE GRANT
The MVP Community Grant Program provides financial assistance to local initiatives that enhance and enrich the community. Every six months, this grant program accepts applications from community groups, which are then reviewed for eligibility by local community members on the Mountain View Power Committee.
Following their review, the committee makes recommendations to Town Council. These latest funding awards mark the third round of approvals since the program was established in June 2023 and has invested a grand total of $197,000 back into the community.
MVP CUSTOMERS
To support this and other important community initiatives, consider becoming a Mountain View Power customer and see how you can support your community while saving money on competitive energy rates for your home, business, or farm.
FALL 2024 GRANT APPLICATIONS
Community groups can apply for the next community grant application intake in Fall 2024. More information about the MVP Community Grants can be found at www.olds.ca/mvp.
Media Contact:
Jillian Toellner
Supervisor – Communications & Engagement
Town of Olds
O: 403-507-4857
C: 403-415-6974