photo by: United Way of Douglas County

The United Way of Douglas County is accepting grant applications to provide funding to those working on issues related to racial equity.

As part of the United Way’s racial equity community fund, applicants may be selected to receive between $500 and $5,000 in funding to support racial equity work, according to the news release.

The program is open to grassroots or community nonprofit organizations in Douglas County with projects focused on increasing equity and opportunities for local Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) communities, according to the eligibility requirements. The grants provide support for organizations or individuals whose work benefits people with low incomes, communities of color and historically and/or systematically marginalized people.

Though the application is open to anyone working on equity issues, requirements state that priority will be given to organizations led by people of color. The United Way states in the news release that the program recognizes that the funding process favors the privileged and is often inaccessible to new, innovative, BIPOC-led efforts.

“The focus of this fund is to support projects that build community, leadership, and direct supports for all marginalized community groups,” the release states. “Our simple goal is to recognize that Black, Indigenous, People of Color in Douglas County are best suited to lead change, and it is the responsibility of funders to alter processes and create a safe space for BIPOC leaders to participate and prosper.”

United Way Director of Operations Mandy Enfield said that at least $20,000 would be awarded as part of the program and that the final total would depend on the campaign contributions received between now and the end of the year. Enfield said the application is open to anyone who is leading work on racial justice, and applicants do not need to be a registered nonprofit organization. She said applicants would also be offered grant-writing support and sustainability resources.

Janine Colter, owner of Hidden Jewel Salon and previous grant recipient, will facilitate the 2022 grant process. More details about eligibility requirements and a link to the application are available on the United Way website, unitedwaydgco.org. Applications are due on Jan. 19.