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Mastenbrook came up with the matching grant program after he and his neighbors worked in conjunction with the county to improve a local park. In 1996, Mastenbrook and his neighbors donated their time and effort to plant a garden in Pine Spring Park, while the county removed brush and supplied other support services.

Since this program began, the county has raised $400,000 in park bond funds for the grants. Projects must take place in a Fairfax County Park Authority park or facility. The majority of the grants are for less than $10,000 each and volunteers match funds. Approximately 25 percent of the projects rely on volunteer labor, which the county values at $16.05 an hour when calculating grant amounts.

Applying for a Mastenbrook grant involves completing a two-page application form with a project description, explanation of public benefit, proof of sponsor commitment and detailed budget. Park Authority officials aim to respond within 60 days. Park Authority staff review each project and make recommendations to the Park Authority Board, which makes the final decision on funding. Grants are funded throughout the year.

For more information, please visit the Fairfax County Park Authority website: www.co.fairfax.va.us/parks/mastenbrookgrant.htm