CAMDEN — West Bay Rotary is once again accepting grant requests to support local causes, having suspended last year’s grants due to COVID. Twice a year, the Club, through its Charitable Foundation, provides financial support to organizations that work to improve the lives of people in Knox County and Lincolnville.

Grants up to $1500 are awarded for specific projects that will be completed within 12 months of receipt of donation.

The club accepts grant applications from charities and nonprofit organizations that promote the welfare of residents in one or more of the following focus areas:

 Education and Literacy
 Maternal and Child Health
 Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution
 Disease Prevention and Treatment
 Water Sanitation and Hygiene
 Community and Economic Development
 Environmental Support

The grant application process is competitive and all applications go through a rigorous review process. The deadline for this year’s applications is April 1 st , with grant awarded in June; and October 1, with grants awarded in January. Organizations receiving a grant will be asked to make a brief presentation to WBR members.

For more information and an application, go to: www.westbayrotaryofmaine.org and click on the West Bay Rotary Charitable Foundation application link.

West Bay Rotary is celebrating its 37th year of manifesting its mission of “service above self” here in the Midcoast. The club undertakes dozens of community projects as well as fundraising (and “fun-raising”) events, including its annual “Duck Derby,” Christmas Trees, Chili Challenge, Toboggan Nationals parking, and more. The door for prospective members is always open. The club meets on Thursday mornings from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., currently via Zoom. For more information, go to: www.westbayrotaryofmaine.org.