The Hear Foundation (THF), based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is currently accepting applications for its Winter 2025 Impact Grant funding cycle. The foundation is dedicated to fostering collaboration between community leaders, residents, and the Pittsburgh Police to create safe, thriving neighborhoods. Co-founded by Leon Ford and former Pittsburgh Police Chief Scott Schubert, THF focuses on initiatives that strengthen community relationships and enhance public safety.

The Winter 2025 Impact Grants provide financial support of up to $40,000 for efforts that promote public safety through one or more of THF’s three core focus areas: gun violence reduction, trauma healing, and workforce development. Applicants may request programmatic support for new or existing projects. General operating support will only be considered for organizations whose mission and core activities strongly align with the foundation’s goals. Preference is given to proposals emphasizing constructive interactions and relationship-building between residents and police or those submitted by organizations with a proven history of collaboration with law enforcement.

The foundation does not fund annual appeals, fundraising events, lobbying, advocacy, or individual projects. Applications are due by 11:59 PM on February 10, 2025, with grant decisions announced on March 26, 2025. Funded projects must be completed by March 31, 2026.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to submit questions to Caroline Woodward at cwoodward@hearfoundation.com by February 1, 2025. Answers to submitted questions will be posted on the foundation’s website by February 2, 2025. The application process and additional information are accessible online through the foundation’s website.

This funding opportunity is ideal for nonprofits and community organizations with a focus on public safety and innovative approaches to addressing gun violence, trauma, or workforce challenges. Organizations should highlight collaboration, especially with police, and clearly articulate how their efforts align with THF’s mission of building strong, safe communities in Pittsburgh.