Grants of up to $1,000 are available from the Martin Luther King Jr. Commission for nonprofit organizations and local government agencies wishing to create or strengthen programs that support the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The theme of this year’s 2019 grant program is “A Call for Civil Discourse,” a topic taught by Dr. King to encourage the engagement of conversation among citizens to further enhance understanding of one another.

The MLK Commission,  housed in the NC Department of Administration (DOA), administers the MLK grant annually in an effort to support programs that educate North Carolina youth on Dr. King’s messaging through peer-to-peer activities.

“The MLK grant program seeks to carry on the legacy and teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., by supporting programs that strengthen our communities and reaffirm our state’s commitment to diversity, inclusion and nonviolence,” said DOA Secretary Machelle Sanders.

The Commission is seeking innovative ideas from nonprofits and local government entities to promote Dr. King’s philosophy of nonviolence.  The Commission’s vision is to advance an awareness and appreciation of the life of Dr. King.

Grants will be awarded to entities across North Carolina to ensure statewide distribution of funds. Applicants are encouraged to partner with local Youth Councils, Human Relations Councils and community organizations. Preference will be given to applicants striving to reach 50 or more youth ages 15- 21 years of age.

Interested nonprofit and government entities should use the application form located on the MLK Jr. Commission’s website to define the specific program that will foster and promote the legacy and philosophy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Examples include but are not limited to:

·       Peer-to-peer youth programs to enhance community relations;

·       Digital and social media campaigns;

·       Bell Ringing ceremonies in local communities;

·       And promotion of cultural arts.

Candidates are encouraged to use the checklist to ensure that applications are complete. Applications must be postmarked no later than Thursday, October 31, 2019. Awards will be announced in December 2019. If you have questions or desire technical assistance, please contact the Department of Administration at 919-807-2425. To learn more about the Commission, follow us on Facebook @NCMLKJrCommission.