Cawaco RC&D grant program supports local projects benefiting community, environment, education
From community gardens to innovation centers and critical safety equipment for first responders, local leaders across Central Alabama leveraged $843,000 in grants to generate nearly $4 million in community impact. Cawaco Resource Conservation and Development Council, in partnership with the Alabama legislature, supported 73 locally led projects across five counties.
These strategic investments in local organizations drive large returns across Blount, Chilton, Jefferson, Shelby and Walker counties. Every $1 Cawaco granted generated $4.69 in total community impact.
The projects served more than 150,000 people and were supported by 950 volunteers who donated over 10,000 hours of their time. Local leaders improved over 20 facilities and hosted nearly 950 trainings and events.
Local leaders amplified the initial grants through matching funds and the value of volunteer time. The added value reflects the efforts and determination of these local leaders.
“The credit for this impact is owed to the knowledgeable, passionate and dedicated local people who lead these projects,” said Patti Pennington, Cawaco RC&D’s programs manager. “We often work with small organizations and rural communities with limited resources but strong leadership, community support and vision. These leaders are already solving problems and meeting needs in their communities. Our grants simply help them do more of what they already do best.”
Cawaco RC&D supports projects that make a broad community, environmental or educational impact. Funding priorities include community improvement, education, first responder support, and parks and recreation. Grants support programs like job skills training, scholarships and field trips, infrastructure improvements, safety equipment and community development projects.
The RC&D grant program is in partnership with the Alabama legislature and the Alabama Association of RC&D Councils.
State Rep. Danny Garrett (R-Trussville), who represents House District 44 and chairs the Alabama House Education Budget Committee, said the results show the impact of collaboration between state lawmakers and local partners across Central Alabama.
“This is a powerful example of what can happen when state leaders and trusted local partners work together toward shared goals,” Garrett said. “Through our partnership with Cawaco RC&D, the Legislature is able to invest in community-driven solutions that multiply impact across Central Alabama. These projects strengthen education, public safety, and quality of life in all five counties, while ensuring taxpayer dollars are used efficiently and responsibly. Collaboration like this turns good ideas into lasting results for our communities.
“This grant program wouldn’t be possible without our state legislators. Their continued partnership allows us to support the community-driven solutions that make Central Alabama stronger,” said Kellie Johnston, Cawaco RC&D’s executive director.
The next grant application cycle opens April 1, 2026. Visit www.cawaco.org to learn more.
About Cawaco RC&D: Cawaco Resource Conservation & Development Council (RC&D) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that supports educational and community development projects in Central Alabama. Cawaco RC&D has a vision of vibrant communities that achieve balance between economic, human, and natural resource needs. Cawaco RC&D serves Blount, Chilton, Jefferson, Shelby and Walker Counties.
