Durham Region officially launches funds to grow para sport and recreation opportunities

Whitby, Ontario – Efforts to grow para sport opportunities and participation in Durham Region can now receive funding as a legacy of the Durham Region 2023 Ontario Parasport Games.

The Regional Municipality of Durham has partnered with Durham Community Foundation (DCF) to launch two funds to support the growth of diverse para sport and recreation opportunities in our local communities.

The Durham Region Para Sport & Recreation Opportunities Fund will have an immediate impact. $25,000 will be available to eligible applicants.

The Durham Region Para Sport & Recreation Legacy Fund is an $85,000 permanent endowment fund to be invested by DCF with interest earned to be granted annually in perpetuity, beginning in June 2025.

A maximum allowable grant of $3,000 is available per organization per year.

Eligible applicants include charitable organizations that are building new programs, enhancing existing programs, hosting events, or acquiring equipment and infrastructure for para sport and recreation opportunities to benefit residents of Durham Region. Non-profit sport and recreation organizations are encouraged to partner with local charitable organizations on grant applications.

Applications for the Durham Region Para Sport & Recreation Opportunities Fund will be received online from September 9 to October 7, 2024, with year one funding recipients to be notified by DCF in November. The funding will be distributed in December 2024.

Lori Talling and Don Terry have been named Co-Chairs of the funds’ Donor Committee. They worked together as General Manager and Co-Chair of the award-winning 2019 and 2023 Ontario Parasport Games hosted by Durham Region. The Donor Committee will also include members from the parasport community.

More details on the two funds and the application process are available at DurhamCommunityFoundation.ca/Parasport.

Quotes

“We are proud to deliver on the promise of our Games by ensuring their impact in our community will be long-lasting. These funds will grow inclusivity in sport and recreation activities so that many more of our residents can enjoy all the benefits of participation.”

– John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer, The Regional Municipality of Durham

“We’re pleased to partner with the Region of Durham to help manage these funds which will contribute to healthier residents both physically and mentally. Together we are building a better community for all.”

– Vivian Curl, Executive Director, Durham Community Foundation

“Our Games Organizing Committee, partners, and volunteers were determined to create a legacy fund with long-lasting benefits, so we’re pleased to see these funds launched and eager to see their positive impact.”

– Lori Talling and Don Terry, Co-Chairs, Donor Committee, Durham Region Para Sport & Recreation Funds

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For media requests, please contact CorporateCommunications@durham.ca