Nonprofit and public organizations seeking funding for projects that draw on the strengths of the community and foster collaboration are encouraged to apply to the Lincoln County Fund through the Community Building Grant Program of the Maine Community Foundation.

A volunteer committee of Lincoln County residents and business leaders reviews grants and makes recommendations for funding. The deadline for applying is Feb. 15. Application and guidelines are available at www.mainecf.org.

In 2016, the Lincoln County Committee awarded $15,000 in grants to three nonprofits. They included:

• $3,000 to the Boothbay Sea and Science Center for a summer youth program that fosters understanding of the aquaculture industry and careers
• $6,500 to Coastal Kids Preschool in Damariscotta to build the organization’s capacity by hiring a development coordinator
• $3,000 to Twin Villages Foodbank Farm to grow fresh vegetables for Lincoln County food pantries and low-income food programs.

With offices in Ellsworth and Portland, the Maine Community Foundation works with donors and other partners to improve the quality of life for all Maine people. To learn more about the foundation, visit www.mainecf.org.