Two Teal Art Fest volunteers stand in front of a banner featuring illustrations of squirrels.

2024-2025 The People's Project Program Report

The People’s Project is an initiative of the Community Foundation of Lorain County that fosters a thriving, supportive community by connecting people with causes that matter.

The People’s Project is an initiative of the Community Foundation of Lorain County that fosters a thriving, supportive community by connecting people with causes that matter. The crowdgranting program combines crowdfunding with a matching grant from the Community Foundation to support local, volunteer-led efforts across Lorain County, Ohio.

From vibrant green spaces to safe recreational areas and neighborhood revitalization, The People’s Project supports initiatives that strengthen community connections and create lasting change. The program is a vital part of the Community Foundation of Lorain County’s residential engagement efforts, promoting neighborly care, encouraging civic participation, and fostering trust between neighbors.

A group of high school girls throw up peace signs at the "She Did Her Big 1" Conference. — SHEDIDHERBIG1 Conference

How The People's Project Works

Changemakers identify an opportunity for growth or change in the community. Individuals, community groups, and other volunteer-led organizations can bring their vision to life by creating a crowdfunding campaign page.

Patronicity hosts The People's Project program and provides an easy-to-use crowdfunding platform with one-on-one project coaching, helping changemakers develop strategies to reach their fundraising goals, engage their community, and bring their visions to life.

Community members buy in and support projects with their dollars. Crowdfunding democratizes access to capital, allowing local residents and organizations to create the change they want to see in their community, fostering a sense of pride as they invest in their surroundings.

Volunteer-led projects that serve and benefit the residents of Lorain County are eligible to participate and, if successful, receive a matching grant of up to $2,000 to further the project's impact on the community. Projects must raise at least 20% of their goal to receive match funding. Main Street Lorain serves as a fiscal sponsor for projects, providing tax-deductible donations and disbursing grant funding to non-incorporated entities and individuals leading impactful community initiatives.

Explore how volunteers are fostering a vibrant community in The People's Project 2024-2025 Program Report.