It’s easy to say that community organizations should encourage youth and sponsor activities that support the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. While most are eager to embrace the dream, the fact is that many cash-strapped agencies lack the funds to convert such plans into action.
That is why the Martin Luther King Jr. Commission is offering grants of up to $5,000 each to non-profit organizations in seven regions across North Carolina to create or strengthen community-based programs.
As stated by Dr. Dumas A. Harshaw Jr., Chairman of the MLK Commission, “There is a great need for quality services for at-risk students and those who need guidance to make use of their abilities. We stand ready to support qualified non-profits that will work hard to reduce the drop-out rate, increase voter registration and embrace opportunities to strengthen their communities.”
Interested non-profits should use the application form on the Human Relations Commission website to apply for funding. Project examples include, but are not limited to: youth programs to enhance race relations; voter education and registration; reducing the high school drop-out rate; literacy programs (including essay contest); anti-gang activities; leadership training; and promotion of cultural arts.
Applications must be postmarked no later than March 5, and awards will be announced by April 9. If you have questions, please call the Human Relations Commission at 919-807-4420.