Lee-Hodge Character of Community Grant
Honoring the Legacy of Henry Lee and Blair Hodge
The Lee-Hodge Character of Community Grant celebrates the values and vision of Henry Lee and Blair Hodge, longtime Cobleskill business owners and civic-minded leaders whose dedication helped shape our community. Thanks to a generous gift from the Sterling Insurance Company Foundation, this grant program was established with a $100,000 investment to support projects that reflect the "character of the community."
About the Grant
The Lee-Hodge Grant is administered by Cobleskill Partnership Inc. (CPI) to strengthen the commercial, residential, and non-profit fabric of both the Village and Town of Cobleskill. The program provides reimbursable grants for projects that create visible, lasting, and positive impacts within our community.
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Total 2026 Fund: $5,000
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Maximum Award: $2,500 (50% of annual fund)
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Application Deadlines: March 1 & September 1
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Funding: Grants are reimbursable, but up to 50% of the award may be advanced upon approval. Retroactive funding for already-completed efforts may be considered.
Eligibility
Applicants can be individuals, organizations (non-profits, businesses, or community groups), or nominators submitting on behalf of a third party.
Projects should align with CPI's mission of promoting economic vitality in Cobleskill, have a long-term benefit to the community (lasting beyond one year), and demonstrate a positive community impact.
How to Apply
To apply, you’ll need to submit basic information via the application form, including:
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Recipient Information – Who is the grant for?
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Project Summary – What are you doing, when, and where?
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Community Impact – How will this benefit the Cobleskill community?
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Long-Term Benefit – What lasting effect will it have?
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Use of Funds – What are you requesting funds for?
You may include additional information, details, photographs, drawings, etc.
To apply, download the application form. Please submit your completed application to Cobleskill Partnership Inc. by March 1st or September 1st.
Submissions can be made 📬 via mail: Cobleskill Partnership Inc. P.O. Box 10Cobleskill, NY 12043
Or 📧 via email: CobleskillPartnership@gmail.com
Applicants may also present their project in person at the CPI Board Meeting designated for Lee-Hodge Grant application review (2nd Thursday of March or September). If you plan to present your project in person, please submit your application by the deadline and indicate your preference.
For questions or assistance with your application, please get in touch with us at the email address above. We’re here to help you bring your community-building ideas to life.
Examples of Eligible Projects
🏠 Residential: Rebuilding a deteriorating front porch to improve curb appeal and inspire pride in neighborhood upkeep.
🎉 Community Event: An annual festival with workshops, exhibitions and other activities to support local artists, provide community engagement, and stimulate the local economy.
How Applications Are Evaluated
Applications are scored on:
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Project Feasibility (1–5 pts)
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Community Impact (1–5 pts)
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Long-Term Benefit (1–5 pts)
To be eligible for funding, an application must score:
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At least 2 points in each category
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A total of 8 points or more
Thank You
This grant is made possible by the Sterling Insurance Company Foundation. We thank them for their continued commitment to the future of Cobleskill.
Prior Lee-Hodge Grant Recipients
Each Lee-Hodge Grant recipient has made a unique and lasting contribution to Cobleskill. From revitalizing storefronts to enhancing public events, these projects embody the spirit of community that the grant was designed to support.
The Community Library
2025 Grant Recipient
Project: Reconstruction of the library sign using the existing signposts and using elements to match the historic building
Impact: Improved visibility and communication through updated signage featuring the library’s new logo, illuminated display, and modern message board, helping connect residents to programs, events, and resources.
Award: $1500
Schoharie County Rural Preservation
2025 Grant Recipient
Project: Needed repairs to the front porch and siding
Impact: Preserved building integrity and exterior appearance through porch and siding repairs, supporting a safer, more welcoming space for community services and housing stability efforts in Cobleskill and Schoharie County
Award: $1500
Kevin's Barbershop
2025 Grant Recipient
Project: Reconstruction of the original front retaining wall, originally poured in 1939
Impact: Improved pedestrian safety and curb appeal along a highly visible stretch of Cobleskill roads. This project preserves local history while enhancing the day-to-day experience for customers and the surrounding community.
Award: $500
Completed by: JTG Construction
Cobleskill Firehouse
2025 Grant Recipient
Project: Major health and safety upgrades to its kitchen facilities, addressing needs through cabinet replacement, mold remediation, and plumbing improvements.
Impact: A vital community resource used daily by emergency personnel and during town-wide events, training, fundraisers, and disaster relief efforts. Maintaining a safe, functional, and ready-to-serve space for the public, both during routine and critical moments.
Award: $500