There is definitely a strong back-to-nature/get outdoors movement alive today. As a mom, I see media campaigns, blogs, books, etc., encouraging children to get outside and just play. Redwood Creek wines is also supportive of this movement. The winery is currently accepting grant applications for its Greater Outdoors Project. Eight nonprofit organizations will be chosen to receive a $10,000 grant, and the grand prizewinner will receive a $50,000 grant.

 

Nonprofit organizations have until Feb. 28, 2010, to submit a grant application. The grant funds will need to be applied to an outdoor project that is specific to the organization applying. The winery expects applications from hiking groups, water conservation nonprofits, energy preservation groups, and other nonprofit organizations that have an outdoor-conservation focus.

 

After Redwood Creek receives and reviews the applications, they’ll place them online for public viewing and voting. Voting runs from April 1, 2010, through Aug. 31, 2010, with the winner being announced in September 2010.

 

The 2010 contest marks the third year that Redwood Creek has sponsored the Greater Outdoors Project grant program. In 2009, the Friends of New Orleans City Park (PDF) received the $50,000 grand prize. The park was devastated by Hurricane Katrina, and the grant monies are being used to build up the eco system of 19 acres of the Couturie Forest, which sits in the middle of the park.

 

For more information, including access to the application, visit the Greater Outdoors Project website.