Harper College launches second year of Community Innovation Fund Grant Program
In June 2021, MacKenzie Scott bestowed $18 million to Harper College through her mission of donating funds to "high-impact organizations." To align with her equity-focused mission, the Harper College Educational Foundation launched the Community Innovation Fund Grant Program in April 2022.
In July 2022, Harper awarded grants to five nonprofit organizations whose missions support the advancement of equity, diversity and economic mobility for underserved and marginalized communities in Harper's district. The funded projects are having long-term, impactful changes in community members' lives, with projects and services that range from providing transitional housing to single mothers and children leaving domestic violence situations to expanding curriculum to improve math skills of those with Down syndrome.
"The impact of the Community Innovation Fund can be transformative. Joining with partner organizations helps to expand our reach and impact more individuals and families," said Laura Brown, vice president and chief advancement officer.
To continue the grant program's mission of supporting equity, diversity and economic mobility programs in Harper's district, the Educational Foundation is accepting applications for a second round of Community Innovation Fund Grant Program funding.
This year the Community Innovation Fund Grant Program will award five, one-year grants of up to $10,000 each. Selected organizations may use the funding for various projects, programs, activities and services focusing on uplifting activities with long-lasting impacts and outcomes within the 23 communities of Harper's service area. Applications are due May 8, 2023. Harper will announce the awards in June 2023.
A live webinar will be held Monday, April 3, to provide more details about the program, explain the application process and give attendees the opportunity to ask questions.
"Following the success of the Community Innovation Fund Grant Program's first year, we are excited to continue empowering area nonprofit organizations," said Dr. Avis Proctor, president of Harper College. "This program advances the missions of the participating organizations, which have an immense impact on the lives they touch. Harper and the college's Educational Foundation remain committed to transforming lives through postsecondary education and strengthening the social and economic mobility of our district."
To learn more about the program and to register for the webinar, visit www.harpercollege.edu/foundation/connect/cifg.php.
For questions email CIFG@harpercollege.edu.