Media Releases

July 25, 2007

Mini-Grants Available To Neighborhood Projects

United Way and Bank of America team up to fund mini-grants to grassroots iniatives

Rochester, NY – United Way of Greater Rochester is now accepting applications from local grassroots organizations seeking grants to improve neighborhood conditions. Through the United Way and the Bank of America Mini-Grants program, local organizations and groups can receive up to $5,000 for short-term projects that will demonstrate a strong difference in our neighborhoods.

“We know that incredible neighborhood projects are driven by local organizations, and their commitment to improving the physical, social, and economic fabric of our neighborhoods, and ultimately our community,” said Jenifer Higgins, Senior Community Impact Associate at United Way.

Last year, Bank of America issued a challenge to all new small business supporters of United Way—it would double all first-time donations—and the money would be earmarked for neighborhood revitalization. More than $125,000 was raised through that challenge, and along with other mini-grant funds, it will be used to invest in these neighborhood initiatives.

The application and corresponding information about this mini-grants program is available online at www.uwrochester.org by clicking on the For Service Providers section, or by calling Jenifer Higgins at (585) 242-6564. The deadline to turn in all application materials to United Way is August 24th at 4:00 pm. Grant notifications will be made in September. A third round of applications will be accepted in early 2008.

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United Way’s mission is to magnify and focus the power of community resources to address our most pressing social needs.