Monday, July 30, 2012

Main Street Arkansas Update - July 30, 2012


Statewide 5-Year Preservation Plan Listening Sessions
July 31 Batesville, City Municipal Building, 5pm
August 14, Hot Springs, Board Chambers in City Hall, 5pm
August 21, West Memphis, Main Street Office, 5pm  

Main Street Arkansas Calendar – July 30 - August 3, 2012 
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MONDAY                            
TUESDAY                           Mark & Sam – Rogers
WEDNESDAY                    Mark & Sam - Rogers
THURSDAY                        Sam, Mark, Nancy – Morrilton (4-Point training); Cary - off     
FRIDAY                                Cary, Sam – off
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IN THIS ISSUE:
MSA on Public Radio
Main Street Batesville Partnership Highlighted Nationally
Main Street West Memphis Event
Incredible Resources from Illinois Main Street
Shrinking Cities – Preserving Buildings Helps Tide Population Loss
Placemaking Debate Continues
F-Commerce
Workshop on Successful Volunteer Programs
4 Grant Opportunities

Making A Difference – Main Street Arkansas (and Paragould & Osceola)

Main Street Batesville & Citizens’ Bank Partnership Highlighted Nationally

Main Street West Memphis Events Highlighted

Incredible Resources from Illinois Main Street
-          not the least of which is a three hour fundraising video. 

Shrinking Cities – Preserving Buildings Helps Tide Loss of Population

Creative Class Placemaking Debate Continues

Small Retailers Profit from Facebook Pages (aka F-Commerce)

Workshop – Keys to a Successful Volunteer Program
The DHS/Division of Community Service and Nonprofit Support will be conducting “Keys to a Successful Volunteer Program” on Wednesday August 22nd from 1-4 pm at the Arkansas Food Bank.  The address if 4301 West 65th Street in Little Rock.   You must preregister to attend. 
This interactive workshop presented by the staff of the Division of Community Service and Nonprofit Support is designed to provide an overview of effective volunteer management techniques.  Class participants will explore and identify the keys to a successful volunteer program while gathering valuable tips from other volunteer managers.  The workshop will cover topics such as building a successful volunteer program, recruitment and recognition that motivates volunteers, plus much more.

If you are interested in attending contact beth.jacks@arkansas.gov  for more information. 

Research and Development Grants Support Innovations in Agribusiness
Department of Agriculture
The Small Business Innovation Research Program provides support for high quality, advanced concepts research related to important scientific problems and opportunities in agriculture that could lead to significant public benefit if successful. Proposed investigations should be designed to stimulate technological innovation in the private sector, thereby strengthening the role of small businesses in meeting federal research and development needs, increasing private sector commercialization of innovations derived from USDA-supported research and development efforts, and fostering and encouraging participation by women-owned and socially and economically disadvantaged small business firms in technological innovation. The application deadline is September 6, 2012.

2013 Sustainable Design Assessment Team Program
The American Institute of Architects seeks partner communities that can demonstrate the capacity to convene a diverse set of community leaders and stakeholders for an intensive, collaborative planning process focused on long-term sustainability. Funded communities receive pro bono services and funding up to $15,000. A cash match of $5,000 is required. Application due date: November 16, 2012.

Promoting Health and Equity through Built Environment and Healthy Food Access Policy
The Convergence Partnership invites proposals that will support the launch of grant-making initiatives to enhance the built environment and/or expand healthy food access in low-income communities and communities of color to improve health and promote equity. A 50 percent match, up to $200,000 total, will be provided for a three-year period. Submittal deadline: August 9, 2012.

EPA Provides $950,000 to Improve Water Quality Using Green Infrastructure in 17 Communities
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is providing $950,000 to help 17 communities expand "green infrastructure" use to improve water quality and protect people's health and benefit communities. Green infrastructure uses vegetation and soil to manage rainwater where it falls, keeping polluted stormwater from entering sewer systems and waterways in local communities. The communities selected —and their awards— are listed online.



Monday, July 23, 2012

Main Street Arkansas Update - July 23, 2012


Preservation Plan Public Meetings
July 24 Paragould, Old City Hall, 5pm
July 26 Pine Buff, Reynolds Center, 5pm
July 31 Batesville, City Municipal Building, 5pm  

Main Street Arkansas Calendar – July 23 - 27, 2012 
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MONDAY                             Susan, Nancy – Texarkana (property owner visit); Mark – off
TUESDAY                           Sam, Greg – Parkin (ADN presentation)  
WEDNESDAY                     
THURSDAY                        Mark – Hardy (board meeting)                          
FRIDAY                               
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IN THIS ISSUE:
AR Nonprofit Filing with Secretary of State due August 1
Tourism Calendar of Events Submission
Creative Placemaking Has an Outcomes Problem
Tax Basics for Nonprofits
Grant Opportunity
The Role of the Brand in the Nonprofit Sector
Nonprofit Branding Podcast
Make Sure Your Logo Tells a Story
More on Nonprofit Branding


The Arkansas Secretary of State's Annual Report for Nonprofit Corporations is due August 1, 2012. Be sure to complete the report before the deadline in order to keep your incorporation status with the state.

Arkansas Tourism is collecting events for the Spring/Summer Calendar of Events
Events must occur March 1- September 2, 2013.  Submit online at Arkansas.com/submitevents proof at Arkansas.com/events.  Deadline August 31. 

Creative Placemaking Has an Outcomes Problem

Tax Basics for Nonprofits

Grant Opportunity
The Arkansas Flower & Garden Show is currently accepting applications for its Greening of Arkansas community beautification grants. The deadline to apply is September 15, 2012. For more info, visit http://www.arflowerandgardenshow.org/grants.htm.

The Role of the Brand in the Non-Profit Sector

Branding for Non-Profits Podcast
Nonprofit Branding - Podcast with Elaine Fogel, Solutions Marketing and Consulting LLC  
A podcast developed by the American Marketing Association (AMA), is now available to nonprofit professionals and interested individuals absolutely free. The 18-minute interview hosted by Anna Carbonara of the AMA, features marketing and communications thought leader, professional speaker, blogger, and writer, Elaine Fogel.  
Questions include: 
 1. What is branding as it relates to the nonprofit sector? 
2. How does branding differ in the nonprofit sector as opposed to the business sector? 
3. How can nonprofits benefit from branding? 
4. Can nonprofits afford to invest in their brands? 
5. How would an organization begin to tackle branding? Listen here...
Make Sure Your Logo Tells a Story

Much More About Non-Profit Brands/Branding

Monday, July 16, 2012

Main Street Arkansas Update - July 16, 2012



Main Street Arkansas Calendar – July 16 - 20, 2012 
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MONDAY                             Susan – Batesville (merchant visits); Sam – Russellville (master plan)
TUESDAY                           Susan, Mark – Ozark (merchant visits); Cary, Greg, Nancy, Sam – Wynne (4-Point training)  
WEDNESDAY                    Greg & Brian – Siloam Springs (property tech asst.); Sam & Susan – Helena (board meeting, merchant visit)
THURSDAY                                                         
FRIDAY                                Nancy – out  
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IN THIS ISSUE:
Main Street Rogers Press
New Paragould Business
6 Grant Opportunities
Small Biz, Big Dreams – AmEx Opportunity
Main Street Weekly Items Worth Review

Main Street Rogers Press

New Paragould Biz

Tourism Feasibility Study Matching Grant

USDA Offers Rural Business Opportunity Grants
USDA is awarding an estimated $2.4 million to promote sustainable economic development in rural communities with exceptional needs. Grant funds can be used for community economic development, feasibility studies, business strategic planning, and other activities. Application deadline: August 6, 2012

FedEx Global Citizenship Program
The mission of the FedEx Global Citizenship Program is to support the communities the company serves, including international locations, through charitable contributions, in-kind shipping services, and volunteer services of employees. The company's core giving areas include the following: Emergency and Disaster Relief, Child Pedestrian Safety, and Environmental Sustainability. In addition to its commitment to these core areas, FedEx supports select educational as well as local community projects identified by company team members. FedEx is especially interested in supporting organizations that request 5% or less of the total project budget, contingency grants, or seed monies with the expectation that other sources will contribute matching amounts. Priority is also given to communities where FedEx employees live, work, and volunteer. Requests may be submitted at any time. Visit the company’s website to review the grant criteria and the online application process.

Arts on Tour Grants Available for Non-Profits

Arkansas non-profit organizations are invited to take advantage of an incredible opportunity to apply for grants from the Arkansas Arts Council's statewide Arts on Tour program. Grant applications are available here and are being accepted for performances and exhibitions that are scheduled for July 1-December 31, 2012.

The Arts on Tour program was developed by the Arkansas Arts Council to provide fee support to eligible presenters that showcase artists listed on the Arts on Tour roster. Eligible presenters include non-profit organizations (theaters, libraries, museums, social service organizations, etc.) and schools and government agencies.

Presenters can choose from an online roster of more than 200 Arkansas performing and visual artists, ensembles and groups, and apply for reimbursement of 40 percent of the artist's contract fee. For more information, contact Jess at (501) 324-9768 or jess@arkansasheritage.org.

Dog Park Grant Opportunity
The Nutro Company, a manufacturer of pet food products, is inviting applications for the third annual Room to Run Dog Park Appreciation Project, a grant program designed to support dog parks and off-leash areas serving communities in the United States.
The program will award thirty grants of $2,000 on a rolling basis (through October 2012) to help fund enhancement efforts in public, nonprofit dog parks. Examples of funded enhancements include general repairs and maintenance (e.g., painting benches, repairing fences), installation of new agility equipment, landscaping, updates to water system, and creation of a poop bag center.
For complete program information and application procedures, visit the Nutro Company Community Initiatives Web page.

AR Law Firm Issues Call for Non-Profits

Small business. Big dreams.

Your business could win $25,000 and a strategy to make those dreams a reality.*

American Express OPEN and Facebook have teamed up to give five small businesses a Big Break® for their business and their community.

For your business and your community:
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  • Your community will get: An event for local businesses to meet and learn from American Express OPEN and Facebook. In addition, American Express® Cardmembers will receive a statement credit for shopping at local small businesses one weekend in September. Details to be announced.
Entering is easy
Just answer 3 simple questions at facebook.com/OPEN. See Official Rules for complete details before entering.

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You can receive $50 in free Facebook ads when you sign up and watch 4 videos on how to use the ads effectively — $100 in free Facebook ads if you’re an American Express Cardmember or merchant.

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Good Stuff from this week’s Main Street Weekly:
Building the Streetscape. This presentation published by the National Trust Main Street Center offers an overview of appropriate public improvement strategies for historic and traditional commercial districts. It can be used to train volunteers and build public support for your efforts. Download a copy.
Vacant Building Ordinance, Nebraska City, Nebraska. Ordinance to identify and register vacant commercial buildings; determine the responsibilities of owners of vacant buildings; and provide for administration, enforcement, and penalties. Also included is a Vacant Building Registration form. Download a copy.

Monday, July 9, 2012

Main Street Arkansas Update - July 9, 2012


Main Street Arkansas Calendar – July 9-13, 2012 
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MONDAY                            
TUESDAY                           Mark & Susan – Heber Springs (merchant visits)
WEDNESDAY                   Mark & Susan – Blytheville & Osceola (interviews in Blytheville, merchant visit in Osceola)
THURSDAY                                                         
FRIDAY                               
******************************************************************

IN THIS ISSUE:
Sam Speaks in Harrisburg
MSA Quoted in Arkansas Business
Eureka Springs Celebrates Main Street Designation
Every City Needs a Brand
2 Grant Opportunities

Sam Visits Harrisburg

MSA Quoted in this week’s Arkansas Business (page 25)
-          Typo, it should read: “21st century economic development….”

Eureka Springs Celebrates Main Street Designation

Every City Needs a Brand

http://www.salon.com/2012/06/30/every_city_needs_a_brand/

-          What’s yours? 

 

Cities of Service Impact Volunteering Fund

http://www.citiesofservice.org/resources/volunteer/

The Cities of Service Impact Volunteering Fund is a $2 million fund administered by Cities of Service and funded by Bloomberg Philanthropies to help cities use impact volunteering to tackle pressing local challenges. Grant sizes will range from $25,000 to $100,000 with larger amounts reserved for cities with multiple initiatives.
Cities interested in applying should read all of the documents below and then click here to access the online Intent to Apply and full application. We ask that all interested cities submit their Intent to Apply by July 9. The full application is due August 31, 2012.
For questions not answered by the supporting documents below, please email us at impactvolunteering@citiesofservice.org.

Grants Encourage Tree Planting Projects
Hardwood Forestry Fund
The Hardwood Forestry Fund promotes hardwood timber growth, management, and education, as well as environmentally sound uses of renewable forest resources. The Fund supports projects on public land, including state, local, or university land, or on property owned by nonprofit organizations. Grants are provided for the planting and/or management of commercial hardwood species, giving preference to cherry, red oak, white oak, hard maple, and walnut. Examples of planting sites include idle land being converted to forest; sites damaged by wildfire, insect or disease, ice, or wind storms; and naturally regenerating sites lacking desired stocking or species composition. Priority is given to hardwood seedling planting on state forest land managed for multiple use. The grant application deadline for spring 2013 planting is August 31, 2012. Visit the Fund’s website for more information 

Monday, July 2, 2012

Main Street Arkansas Update - July 2, 2012




Main Street Arkansas Calendar – July 2 – 6, 2012 
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MONDAY                            
TUESDAY                          
WEDNESDAY                   office closed in observance of Independence Day
THURSDAY                       Mark & Sam – out                                 
FRIDAY                                Mark & Sam – out
********************************************************************

IN THIS ISSUE:
AR Biz City of Distinction Awards Due August 6
SoMa Biz in Running for Prize
Main Street El Dorado Press
NPR Cities
How to Market Your Biz at Festivals
AR Community Foundation Giving Tree Grants
3 More Grant Opportunities
Software/Hardware Opportunity


Reminder – AR Biz City of Distinction Awards due August 6

SoMa Biz in Running for Prize
Chase Bank and Living Social are providing grants for up to $250,000.  In order to be eligible, we need to get at least 250 votes. 

Please vote for the Empress B&B at https://www.missionsmallbusiness.com.  

Main Street El Dorado Issues Mini-Grants

NPR Cities
NPR is asking the audience input for the NPR Cities Project, where Americans across the country share more about the heart of their city. Learn how to contribute pictures and sound at npr.org/nprcities. You can also follow the project on Twitter @nprcities.

How To Market Your Biz at Festivals

Arkansas Community Foundation Giving Tree Grants
Through ARCF signature Giving Tree Grant Program, ARCF supports a broad range of projects with the potential for statewide impact and programs serving immediate local needs. Each of their 27 local offices and our central office in Little Rock offers Giving Tree grants at least once a year. Typically, these grants are available for a wide variety of charitable causes;. Check with the local office to which you’re applying for information about the current grantmaking focus.
How to Apply: Download and complete the application form at www.arcf.org between July 10 and August 15, 2012. Applications must be submitted to arcfgrants@arcf.org by 11:59 p.m. on August 15. If you need assistance, contact Chris Love, Arkansas Community Foundation’s program director, at clove@arcf.org or 501-372-1116.

Playground Equipment Grant Opportunity
The Dr Pepper Snapple Group and KaBOOM! are offering grants to qualifying United States-based organizations for the purchase of playground equipment that will be built using the KaBOOM! community-build model.
The program will provide grantees with a $15,000 grant to be applied toward their equipment purchase from a KaBOOM! preferred vendor; access to planning tools on the Our Dream Playground Web site; the opportunity to receive one-on-one planning support from KaBOOM! alumni; and post-build access to the KaBOOM! alumni network. Grantees will plan their project and share best practices and challenges through the Our Dream Playground Web site.
The program is open to U.S.-based municipalities, neighborhood associations, schools, day care centers, and nonprofit organizations without a playground or with existing equipment that is unsafe for children to use.

Tourism Cares Grant Opportunity
Through its Worldwide Grant Program, Tourism Cares works to make a difference at tourism-related sites of cultural, historical, and natural significance.
Nonprofit, tax-exempt public charities are invited to submit letters of inquiry online for projects to conserve, preserve, or restore a site, and/or educate visitors. Funding requests may include brick-and-mortar capital improvement projects or educational programs that enhance interpretation of the site.

NEA Design Art Works Grant Program

Here's a quick rundown on what you should know if your organization plans to apply for the August 9, 2012 deadline. Grant guidelines, additional details, and application materials are all available on www.arts.gov.

         Grant guidelines: http://www.arts.gov/grants/apply/GAP13/DesignAW.html

         Eligible applicants: Nonprofit 501(c)(3) U.S. organizations; units of state or local government; or federally recognized tribal communities with 3 years of programming history. http://www.arts.gov/grants/apply/GAP13/Eligibility.html

         Eligible design project activities: It's a long list! Everything from competitions to design commissions; design research to community workshops; exhibitions to design festivals; education to technology products that advance the field of design; and much more. Review the guidelines for a more comprehensive list.  Note: Construction costs are NOT eligible. However, NEA can support earlier phases in the project, including predevelopment and design fees.

Get Donated Software and Refurbished Hardware
TechSoup
TechSoup helps nonprofits like yours get the technology products and resources you need to operate at your full potential. With the help of our more than 40 donor partners like Microsoft and Adobe, we offer over 400 products, plus free tech learning resources including articles, blogs, webinars, community discussions, and forums led by expert hosts. Check your nonprofit’s eligibility for our donation programs and get started.