The Houlton Rotary Club is now accepting project funding requests for 2026-2027, incoming President Johanna Johnston said.
Local nonprofits, schools, youth organizations and community groups are encouraged to submit requests for projects and initiatives that positively impact the greater Houlton area and surrounding communities.
Requests should include a brief description of the project, the amount requested, and an explanation of how the funding will benefit the community. Applicants should also be willing and available to answer questions from the Rotary Board of Directors during the review process and provide a project update presentation to the club if selected for funding. All submissions must be received prior to June 30.
In an effort to maximize community impact and create strong collaborative partnerships, priority consideration may be given to projects that:
– Demonstrate broad community benefit
– Provide opportunities for measurable or lasting impact
– Encourage volunteer engagement or partnership opportunities with Rotary members
– Show organizational preparedness and ability to execute the project successfully
– Support or help promote the Houlton Rotary Club Annual Auction and related fundraising efforts through attendance, promotion, volunteerism, or donated items/services
Rotary hopes to continue building relationships with organizations that view the club as an active community partner rather than simply a funding source, Johnston said.
“Our Rotary Auction and fundraisers are what make these investments back into the community possible,” Johnston said. “We’re excited to support organizations that are willing to help us grow those efforts and work alongside Rotarians to strengthen our communities together.”
Requests may be mailed to: Houlton Rotary Club, P.O. Box 425, Houlton, ME 04730, Attn: Johanna Johnston, or emailed to johanna@sadcaroostook.org.
“This year’s Rotary theme is ‘Create Lasting Impact,’ and that message reflects the type of work our club hopes to continue supporting throughout Southern Aroostook,” said Johnston. “Rotary has a long history of investing in projects that strengthen our communities, support local families, create opportunities for youth, and improve quality of life throughout the region.”
Funding for community projects is made possible through the Houlton Rotary Club’s annual Rotary Auction and other fundraising activities held throughout the year. Recent Rotary-supported projects and organizations have included youth sports programs, educational initiatives, recreation projects, food security efforts, arts and culture programming, community events, senior services, and numerous local nonprofit initiatives.
In addition to continuing Rotary’s tradition of financial support, Johnston said the club is also seeking additional hands-on service opportunities during the upcoming year.
“One of my goals as president is to create even more opportunities for Rotarians to actively serve within our communities,” Johnston said. “Organizations with volunteer needs or community service projects are encouraged to reach out to us as well.”
The Houlton Rotary Club has served the community for more than 100 years and welcomes individuals interested in service, leadership, and community involvement to learn more about membership opportunities.
For information, visit houltonrotary.org or the club’s Facebook page.
