CREW, Inc. has taken steps toward obtaining a 1 million dollar grant to help transform the old Triplett School into a vibrant community center.
The initiative to develop a community center in Mount Jackson is gaining traction as the organization in charge has a promising chance to secure a $1 million matching grant. This would provide the nonprofit with a total of $2 million for the project.
Community Resources for Education and Wellness (CREW), founded earlier this year, has been diligently working to transform the old Triplett School facility into a community center in Mount Jackson.
The potential $1 million grant would come from the Industrial Revitalization Fund, managed by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DCHD). CREW is preparing to submit its application by the May 31 deadline.
Mount Jackson Town Manager Olivia Hilton shared that the DCHD recommended the town apply on behalf of CREW, highlighting the organization’s suitability for the grant.
Most of the grant funding will go towards construction and capital expenses to fully utilize the building. This includes developing a commercial commissary kitchen, art and fitness studios, renovating indoor basketball courts as well as the stage area and shared spaces. The funding would also cover security and plumbing infrastructure, parking lot renovations, upgrades to electrical systems and other needs.
Hilton noted that, per state program rules, the locality must apply for the funds, which will be received by CREW if awarded.
“The grant application includes letters of support, a Town Council resolution to administer the grant, a market analysis demonstrating community need, a description of the organization and building plans, a budget breakdown, the number of jobs it will create, and the program’s sustainability,” Hilton detailed. “By advocating for CREW through this application, we can generate financial support for the program without burdening our citizens.”
To qualify for the $1 million in state funds, CREW must match the funding on their end.
At their regular meeting on Tuesday, the town of Mount Jackson voted unanimously to provide CREW with a third installment of $50,000 in town support to help meet the matching requirement. The town had previously donated $50,000 last year, with a second installment included in the fiscal year 2025 budget.
The third installment is contingent on a successful grant application, and Hilton informed the council that it could be met through various means, not just cash.
“Whether it’s land acquisition for an aquatic center, maintenance or in-kind staff support, the $50,000 can be spent flexibly,” Hilton explained. “It’s not strictly a tax dollar-for-dollar initiative.” Hilton confirmed that the funds had been met through public and private donors.
CREW’s Executive Director Kim Cassford expressed excitement about the grant and gratitude for the town’s support.
“We are delighted to have been selected for this opportunity,” Cassford said.
You can read the original article online at NVD: https://www.nvdaily.com/nvdaily/mount-jackson-community-center-up-for-1-million-state-grant/article_0f07947f-f117-52d5-bc35-702dff40465f.html
