Neighborhood Yes Fund (The Yes Fund)

Neighborhood Yes Fund

Also Known As: The Yes Fund

Funder: Bartram's Garden and Mural Arts Philadelphia, with support from ArtPlace (national art foundation)

Status: Active program (established 2016, continuing through at least 2017)

Geographic Scope: South Kingsessing/North Elmwood neighborhood surrounding Bartram's Garden, Southwest Philadelphia, PA

Focus Areas:

Creative expression and artistic projects

Connection to nature

Community well-being

Youth engagement

Community organizing and activism

Arts and culture

Program Description:
The Neighborhood Yes Fund celebrates the creative talents of Southwest Philadelphia neighbors and provides mini-grants in support of community-led initiatives. A community advisory board from the South Kingsessing/North Elmwood neighborhood guides all funding decisions, ensuring community voice in grantmaking.

Eligibility:

Community members and leaders in Southwest Philadelphia

Neighborhood residents and organizations

Focus on grassroots community initiatives

Example Funded Projects:

Block cleanups

Video production and media training programs

Literacy promotion initiatives

Local performing arts showcases

Community gardening projects

Health and wellness events (e.g., 5K walk/run events)

Cultural festivals and celebrations

Youth leadership development programs

Farm-related community outreach

2016 Grants: Fifteen awards were given to community leaders who organized various initiatives including block-cleanups, teaching video production, promoting literacy, and showcasing local performing artists.

2017+ Programs Supported:

Legacy Crew: High school students cultivating leadership, organizing greening service projects, receiving stipends for special projects with community garden experts

Multicultural Festival: Series of cultural celebration events including Kickback Festival, paint-and-sip workshops, bicycle excursions, and soccer tournaments

Contact: Bartram's Garden; Mural Arts Philadelphia