Community Bank N.A recently donated $5,000.00 to the Fulton Block Builders (FBB). Branch Manager, Tina Stephens is seen here with Linda Eagan, FBB administrative Director. “The Fulton Block Builders have announced Target Areas and are accepting Pre-Applications for the 2017 Block Challenge matching grant program. Homeowners are encouraged to go to fultonblockbuilders.com to download the pre-application form and sample letter to organize your neighbors. It is a very simple process and any block in the city can apply, however preference will be given to blocks in the Target Areas. FBB is thrilled to have the support of Community Bank N.A. With this 5K check, FBB has now raised 92% of the match needed to realize the full $100,000.00 matching grant from the Shineman Foundation.” Eagan said
Branch Manager, Tina Stephens (left) with Linda Eagan, FBB administrative Director
Each participating property owner in a Challenge Block is eligible to receive a dollar-for-dollar match on exterior improvements (visible from the street), up to $1,000. If $500 is spent, a $250 match will be made. If $2,000 or more is spent the match will be $1,000. (minus taxes). Funding is competitive please see Tips for a Competitive Application.
To receive the matching funds, participants must submit all receipts and invoices at the conclusion of their project. Fulton Block Builders will review the materials, take a picture of the completed work, and send a reimbursement check to the participant. (Note sales tax on purchases cannot be matched only the before tax purchase price.)
In addition to matching funds, participants will be eligible to receive special discounts from sponsoring hardware stores and garden centers. (A list of sponsors and the applicable discounts will be available when the Challenge Blocks are designated).
What improvements are eligible?
- Painting
- Mailboxes
- Porch repair
- Exterior lights
- Soffit repair
- Front yard landscaping
- Sidewalk repair
- Front doors/screen doors
- Flower boxes
- Shutters
- And more...
“Community Bank N.A. slogan is Bank Happy which is more than just advertising it is the core principle by which we operate” said Stephens. We are a full service financial institution, offering all the things much bigger banks offer. But we also have one thing they don’t -a passion for providing the highest level of customer service in whatever we do. “The support for the FBB is clear demonstration of this passion” Stephens said.
