The United Black Fund of Greater Cleveland is now accepting applications for the 2024-2025 Community Thrive Grant, aimed at supporting organizations in Cuyahoga County addressing mental health and gun violence prevention. The grant seeks to partner with local nonprofits that are making meaningful strides in reducing mental health issues or preventing gun violence through innovative programs and resources. The application period runs from October 1 to November 12, 2024, with a final deadline of 11:59 p.m. The grant focuses on funding efforts that have a lasting impact, aiming to improve community well-being and safety across the region.

Eligible applicants for the Community Thrive Grant must be 501(c)(3) organizations or have a fiscal sponsor, and they must have been established for at least three years with a demonstrated track record of success. Projects must focus on mental health support or gun violence prevention within Cuyahoga County. Areas of interest for mental health projects include youth and adult depression, suicide prevention, school absenteeism, anger management, and social media addiction. For gun violence prevention, proposals should address community-based interventions, education, support for families affected by violence, gun culture, safety, and legislative awareness. Applicants should be able to provide data illustrating their impact and include at least one letter of support.

Funding from the Community Thrive Grant will be allocated with an 80/20 split, where 80% is dedicated to program implementation and 20% can cover operational or marketing expenses. The grant does not support one-time events, sponsorships, or fundraising campaigns, and all programming must have a minimum execution period of one year. Applicants must also submit a one-page strategic plan summary detailing how the funds will be utilized. Short-listed organizations will undergo site visits starting the week of December 2, 2024, following an initial application review beginning the week of November 18.

Successful applicants will be notified of grant decisions by the week of December 16, with the first disbursements of funds occurring by the week of December 23. A second disbursement will follow in June 2025, contingent upon the submission of a mid-year progress report by June 15. A final report is required by December 15, 2025, to complete the grant cycle. Organizations that receive the Community Thrive Grant will not be eligible for UBF's traditional grant funding until April 2026, ensuring a focus on delivering results from the current grant.

A virtual informational meeting about the grant will be held on October 15, 2024, at 11 a.m., providing potential applicants with an opportunity to learn more about the program requirements and application process. Those interested in attending can register by contacting Celeste Terry, the Grants Manager. This grant represents a vital opportunity for local organizations to secure funding for transformative programs that address critical community issues, fostering safer and healthier environments for Cuyahoga County residents.