Do you have an idea for changing the world — or at least your corner of it? You may be eligible to apply for a Changemaker Grant.
United Way of Greater New Bedford is seeking applications for their Changemaker Grants (formerly the Community Building Mini-Grants Program) which aim to empower ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things to help their neighborhoods and their community.
All-volunteer groups in Greater New Bedford can apply for up to $2,500 to complete projects that are engaging, community driven, solutions-focused, and that foster unity through community action.
“Changemaker Grants are a unique opportunity for residents to identify a challenge and come up with a creative way to address that challenge,” said Michelle N. Hantman, President & CEO of United Way. “Since 1995, we’ve funded 825 projects that have helped to build stronger connections between people and that fill important needs. Over the years, we’ve seen projects such as community gardens, neighborhood cleanups, and care kits for different populations including moms, students, babies, and homeless.”
To be eligible for a grant, groups must be all volunteer with budgets less than $40,000. Projects should be small in scale, but have the potential for long-term impact. Changemaker projects ideally should support one of the following United Way impact areas : health, education, financial stability, and basic needs.
United Way is hosting two virtual information sessions in February for groups to learn more. Sessions will take place via Zoom on Tuesday, Feb. 8 at 1 p.m. and Wednesday, Feb. 9 at 5:30 pm. To register, visit unitedwayofgnb.org/changemaker-grants or call 508-994-9625.
In addition to funding, Changemaker groups are further supported with skill-building workshops, networking opportunities, and recruiting new volunteers to assist with their projects through Volunteer SouthCoast.
Applications will be accepted Feb. 1 through March 11 through United Way’s grant portal.