The United Black Fund of Greater Cleveland (UBF) has announced a new grant opportunity for two successful applicants at $25,000 each, totaling $50,000 in grant funding, marking a significant milestone in its 42-year history. This grant is specifically aimed at supporting initiatives that address mental health issues and gun violence prevention/intervention in the community.
UBF is committed to identifying and partnering with organizations that are making a positive impact in improving mental health and reducing gun violence issues, according to Cecil LIpscomb, UBF president and CEO.
"If there are organizations in Cuyahoga County that provide programs, resources, and support to gun violence prevention or improve mental health by reducing the incidence of these issues, we encourage them to apply for our "Community Thrive" grant., said Lipscomb in a statement announcing the grants.
According to Lipscomb, “the funding from this grant is the much-needed resource to bring a positive change in Cleveland's current climate. It is extremely beneficial to our communities and their needs."
Grant Focus Areas
UBF is particularly interested in projects that impact mental health and wellness and other causes that lead to this disease. Some recommended areas are depression (youth and adults), suicide prevention (youth and adults), school violence/school absenteeism, anger management, and social media addiction.
UBF is also seek innovative approaches to prevent gun violence, such as education and awareness and community-based interventions that address the root causes. Proposals to upport for families affected by gun violence, gun culture, gun safety, and/or gun laws are welcome.
To be considered for this one-time opportunity, interested applicants should visit the UBF website to access the application form and guidelines. The grant application is open, and the grant application deadline is Monday, November 27, 2023, at 11:59p. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for further discussion and site visits as part of the selection process. The funding for successful applicants is scheduled for December 2023.
Apart from the new funding opportunity, the United Black Fund of Greater Cleveland also has its traditional funding cycle of awards, which opens in the spring of 2024, providing grants of up to $10,000. This funding is focused on basic needs, education, workforce development, and social justice. According to UBF's Grants Manager, Celeste Terry, “there are multiple opportunities for the community to receive support from UBF in order to carry out the work we want to see in the community. We encourage organizations that are not eligible for this new initiative to apply for our traditional funding cycle.”
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