VALPARAISO — The city's Human Relations Council is launching a community cultural initiative by offering grants to increase awareness, appreciation and dialogue in the community among diverse and traditionally underrepresented groups.
"This grant encourages expression and sharing in our community, which is part of the mission of the HRC," council Chairman Heath Carter said.
Applications for the current grant cycle are due on March 15. The grants will be offered twice per year for projects ranging from $500 to $2,000 per project. A total of $6,000 is available annually, funded through the mayor’s office.
A committee of four individuals appointed jointly through the HRC, ValpoNEXT and city administration will review grants in March and September, with award notifications and initial disbursements being made in June and December.
The HRC grant program is open to any individual, incorporated nonprofit, unincorporated association, public school or for-profit organization so long as the project for which funding is requested serves a nonprofit objective related to education and cultural inclusion.
The types of projects that will be considered include events (one-time or a series), speakers, exhibitions and classes or workshops that are free to the public. Categories funded may include arts, humanities, interpretive sciences and civic/cultural programming.
Priority will be given to new projects or concepts that enhance the quality of life and strengthen the community, and those that encourage collaboration and cooperation between organizations.
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