Cochrane area initiatives are among those who will benefit from Rocky View County (RVC) community grants, it was announced today.

Medieval Day will receive $1,000 to help offset costs of providing entertainment and a cash prize for a youth writing contest.

Brought to Cochrane annually by the Cochrane Public Library, the popular fun day offers historically-inspired games and activities for all ages. It remains free of charge for participants with the help of such sponsorships.

Medieval Day is a salute to days of yore. Entertainers from storytellers to wandering minstrels will be there. Real knights and Vikings will be practising their weapon skills. Local artisans will be demonstrating their crafts and vendors will be selling their wares.

Recently, July 27 was proclaimed Medieval Day by town council after a suitably clad delegation gave a flowery oratory and presented Mayor Jeff Genung with a crown to wear that day.

Other recipients include the Stockmen’s Memorial Foundation, located in the Cochrane RancheHouse. It received $5,000 to create a more interactive website, including an e-commerce portal that will help with long-term sustainability. 

The Cochrane Society for Housing Options received $5,000 for operating expenses related to maintaining the sustainability of the rental program at the HomeStead building in Cochrane.

The Cochrane and Area Humane Society received $5,000 towards the purchase of volunteer t-shirts, appreciation gifts, an appreciation tea, a cellular I-Pad and materials to make volunteers' jobs easier. 

The Bragg Creek Artisans Society, Springbank Community Association and the Airdrie Alberta Winter Games 2020 Society were among the other recipients and each received the maximum allotment of $5,000.

A total of $46,000 was awarded in Community Benefit Initiatives grants, impact programs and projects of 11 different groups. Up to $50,000 is awarded annually from a program launched in September 2004.

The grant program supports programs and project in the categories of heritage awareness, volunteer development, culture and events, community beautification and cultivating communities.