Grant Opportunities
Through our grant program, the Parks Foundation of Hendricks County puts donor contributions to work, funding special projects and programs that make our community better for everyone.
Who Can Apply
What We Fund
New equipment to promote health, fitness, or recreation
Signage that provides education or enrichment for visitors
Beautification projects that enhance aesthetics or cultural significance
Special events or programs that increase access to park services
Environmental education programs for children, youth, and community members
Conservation and preservation initiative
What We Don't Fund
Routine facility repairs and maintenance
Staffing or overhead costs
Projects or events outside of Hendricks County, Indiana
Organizations not classified as a public park by the PFOHC Board
Projects, programs, or events not open and welcoming to all community members
Requests that don't align with the PFOHC mission
Any public park, trail system, or nature preserve in Hendricks County that offers recreational, cultural, or athletic opportunities to residents at no or minimal cost is welcome to apply. The intent of your grant request must align with the PFOHC mission.
Not sure if your project qualifies? Reach out to Katy Cummings, Executive Director, at katy@pfohc.org.
Two Funds. Two Focuses.
Each year, PFOHC awards grants from two funds. Each fund has its own focus area and grant cycle. Review both to determine which is the right fit for your project.
Gary Emsweller Parks & Trails Fund
This fund supports physical improvements that make parks and trails more usable, welcoming, and vibrant. Projects may include new equipment, signage, beautification, conservation efforts, or events that bring people outdoors.
Spring Grant Cycle Applications open in February. Deadline: TBA. Recipients notified by late April. Check presentations in early May.
Robert A. Wood Environmental Education Fund
Dedicated to connecting people, especially children and young adults, with nature and the outdoors. This fund supports new or improved outdoor education programming, community nature programs, and initiatives that educate residents about the environment across Hendricks County.
Fall Grant Cycle Applications open August 17. Deadline: September 25. Recipients notified by late October. Check presentations in early November.
How the Process Works
Step 1: Find Your Fund
Determine whether your project aligns with the Gary Emsweller Parks & Trails Fund (physical improvements, equipment, events) or the Robert A. Wood Environmental Education Fund (outdoor education programs, nature connection). See the fund descriptions above if you're unsure.
Step 2: Submit Your Application
Complete the grant application during the open cycle window. Application details are communicated directly to public park leaders in Hendricks County when each cycle opens. Not on the list? Contact Katy Cummings to be added.
Step 3: Await Review
The PFOHC Grants Committee reviews all submitted proposals and meets to discuss them before making a recommendation to the full Board of Directors. This process takes approximately three to four weeks.
Step 4: Receive Notification
All applicants are notified of the Board's decision. Grants are approved or declined; there is no subsequent negotiation process. Approved grants are paid in full following the approval notice.
Step 5: Celebrate and Report Back
Grant recipients are invited to a check presentation — a moment for PFOHC to recognize your work and share your project with the community. Once your project is complete, submit a brief final report with 2–3 photos to the Executive Director. This report is required to remain eligible for future funding.
Questions? Contact Katy Cummings, Executive Director, at katy@pfohc.org.
Grants in Action
It's easy to take our favorite outdoor spaces for granted.
A smooth trail. A safe crossing. A place to sit. A program that brings families out on a weeknight.
Those things didn't just happen — they were built, improved, and supported over time. PFOHC grant funding makes them possible.
Parks & Trails Projects Recent grants have supported trail safety and wayfinding improvements, bike-friendly trailhead amenities, accessible nature and play spaces, sports courts, mobility chairs, and birding and reflection areas at parks across Hendricks County.
Environmental Education Programs Recent grants have brought nature closer to families through outdoor discovery stations, adventure backpacks for young explorers, family fishing programs, wildlife enclosures, and hands-on learning experiences at nature centers.
Every grant is made possible by donors who believe in our community’s parks, trails, and outdoor spaces. Want to grow this impact? Support PFOHC!