MLK Grants Available To Qualified Organizations

RALEIGH: Grants of up to $1,000 are available from the Martin Luther King Jr. Commission to non-profit organizations or local government agencies wishing to create or strengthen programs that support the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The theme of this year’s 2018 grant program is “A Call for Civil Discourse,” a topic taught by Dr. King to encourage the engagement of conversation among citizens to further enhance understanding of one another.

“This grant helps strengthen our communities and affirm Dr. King’s stance on nonviolence and diversity through peer-to-peer educational activities for children," said N.C. Department of Administration Secretary Machelle Sanders. “It promotes and extends Dr. King’s teachings and philosophy which remain relevant in our society today.”

The Commission is interested in receiving innovative applications from qualified non-profits and local governmental units whose focus is awareness and education to further the philosophy of nonviolence toward ourselves, others and the world.

The MLK Commission is staffed by the N.C. Department of Administration. Grants will be awarded to entities across North Carolina to ensure statewide distribution of funds. Applicants are encouraged to partner with local Youth Councils, Human Relations Councils and community organizations. Preference will be given to applicants striving to reach 50 or more youth ages 14 years and younger.

Interested non-profits should use the application form on the MLK Jr. Commission’s website to identify your organization and to define the specific program you wish to present that will foster and promote the legacy and philosophy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Examples include but are not limited to: peer-to-peer youth programs to enhance community relations; non-violence and peacemaking activities; digital and social media campaigns; and promotion of cultural arts.

Applicants are encouraged to the use the checklist to ensure that applications are complete. Applications must be postmarked no later than October 31. Awards will be announced in December 2018. If you have questions, call the Department of Administration at 919-807-2425.

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ABOUT MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. COMMISSION:

Staffed by the North Carolina Department of Administration, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission works to promote an awareness and appreciation of the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and to encourage appropriate ceremonies and activities throughout the State of North Carolina relating to the observance of the legal holiday honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday.

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