If you're the kind of person who gets excited reading about green roofs and community building projects, Washington Parks & People may be able to fuel your desire to put a hand in making your neighborhood a better place to live. This 18 year-old community group has played a vital role in turning D.C. parks, like Meridian Hill and Marvin Gaye Parks, from dangerous, crime-ridden areas to places where people play and see performances and just enjoy some greenery.

WPP just announced a series of Community Greening mini-grants to encourage neighborhood groups to participate in cleaning up other such spaces around the city. The awards are given to purchase tools, plants and other supplies, and usually range from $500 to $1000, but could be as much as $2500. Entrants must be part of an established group, and priority is given to those from underserved neighborhoods. Projects can be one from a long list, including a community garden, schoolyard greening, or trail restoration. Deadline for submissions is February 15, and at least one person from each group must attend one of the training sessions on January 29 and 30. See WPPs web site for indepth details.

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