USDA honors Heil, awards Senior Center

munity Program Specialist in Rural Development for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), visited the Lind Senior Center in December to award the center with a grant check in the amount of $15,000, and to recognize Howard Heil for heading the application process to apply for the grant.

Heil contacted Peter McMillin, Community Programs Director for Washington state in March 2012, to inquire about funding needed to replace the flat membrane roof and windows of the Lind Senior Center and food bank. Heil took the opportunity to complete the Rural Development application, along with valuable assistance from Sharon Englehart. Heil served as the primary contact during the application and construction process.

“The commitment of the members of the Lind Senior Center are extraordinary and memorable,” McMillin said, “It was a pleasure to work with Mr. Heil and Mrs. Englehart.”

Funding is awarded based on need, so each application is different. The Rural Development (RD) staff is dedicated to the local communities that the USDA serves, and helps applicants in the step-by-step process to complete the application.

Canatsey read a statement to those in attendance, sent by McMillin in his absence, “Part of the reason that this project was of high interest with me was because of you. I remember your presentation, very thorough and professional, to Marti and I when you talked through the needs and reasons for requesting RD funding. The detail you provided was the best and it was very detailed. But the thing that struck me was that you cared deeply about this building, organization, the mission, the Town of Lind, and most of all… the people. We all go through life looking for a place to fit in, and a sense of accomplishment. You have accomplished much through your contribution to keep this facility running. Howard, you are the reason that compelled me to approve these funds and put them to good work! Because of this, I pay tribute to you.”

Canatsey provided Heil with a plaque honoring his service and continued to share McMillin’s gratitude for the opportunity to assist in funding the building repair of the roof and replacement of two windows.

“This is exactly the kind of project that RD looks for in an essential Community Facilities project.” Canatsey continued. “The project will yield energy efficiencies and a return on investment with every dollar that was spent. You, as individuals and certainly as an organization are leaders and represent the fabric within your community. Your service and commitment to Lind is recognized by RD, and I’m happy to be able to say to you… keep up the good work.”

As a part of the program, Canatsey will continue to monitor the center to ensure the grant funds benefit the community for the same purpose, until the life of the roof and windows are below $5,000. As a part of her service two things will take place. First, completing a civil rights compliance review, to assure that the center is open for all people. Second, complete security inspections to assure that the roof and windows are there and in good shape. Canatsey will also continue to check in occasionally to see how the center is doing and assist them as needed.

The USDA Community Facilities Programs provide loans, grant and loan guarantees for essential community facilities in rural areas. Priority is given to health care, education and public safety projects. Typical projects are hospitals, health clinics, schools, firehouses, community centers and many other community based initiatives.

Community Facilities Programs can make and guarantee loans to develop essential community facilities in rural areas and towns of up to 20,000 in population. Eligible entities are towns, cities, districts, nonprofit organizations and tribes.