RAE Announces Funding for Gulf Region Volunteer Events in 2023

Restore America’s Estuaries is excited to once again partner with CITGO to facilitate the Caring for our Coasts Gulf Region Grants. The goal of this program is to support organizations and groups hosting locally based volunteer events in the Gulf of Mexico region.  

In 2022 this program awarded $30,000 to nine organizations. More than 1,500 volunteers donated 5,200 hours of time at 39 different events where they restored or preserved more than 20 acres, planted 4,776 native trees and plants, and collected 23,737 lbs of trash along 362 miles of shoreline. 

Eligible organizations will be registered non-profits, municipalities, and community organizations with annual operating budgets of less than $10 million.  The deadline to apply for consideration is 11:59 PM Pacific on February 10, 2023. The total funding available for this year’s funding cycle is $44,000 with a maximum of $4,000 per grant. Projects must be completed between February 11th and August 31st, 2023.  

In order to improve access to this funding, RAE will accept applications through our online portal, written applications, or for those that request it, a phone screening where you will be able to answer the questions listed on the application. Your choice of application method will not be used as a benefit or a detriment to your application. 

Applications will be evaluated based on the following criteria: 

  • Potential for this funding to increase event capacity 
  • Expected impact of the event on local communities and ecosystems 
  • Demonstration of community engagement and outreach 
  • Funding need 
  • Special Consideration will be given to high-ranking proposals from diverse groups, or partner with diverse groups, that have traditionally been under-engaged with coastal conservation efforts or are new to competitive grant funding 

To learn more, and submit your application, please visit: https://estuaries.org/caring-for-our-coasts-grant/.  

If you have any questions, or if assistance is needed to complete the application, please email applications@estuaries.org.