RI Nonprofits that Serve African-American Community Invited to Apply for Grants

RHODE ISLAND—Local nonprofit organizations that serve the African-American community have until Sept. 15 to apply for grants through the Black Philanthropy Initiative (BPI) at the Rhode Island Foundation.

"Only by working together can we address the years of economic disadvantages that Rhode Island's Black community has endured and continues to endure. Achieving real progress takes commitments of time and resources by all of us,” said Edward Clifton, co-chair of the BPI grant committee.

Proposals must serve the African-American community and focus on economic sustainability and the Black family in at least one of three specific areas: housing, financial literacy or job training. The average grant was $5,000 last year.

Past recipients include the Urban League of Rhode Island, Higher Ground International, the Rhode Island Black Business Association and the Refugee Dream Center. Since 2012, the Foundation has awarded more than $110,000 in grants.

The Rhode Island Foundation is the largest and most comprehensive funder of nonprofit organizations in Rhode Island. In 2015, the Foundation awarded $41.5 million in grants to organizations addressing the state’s most pressing issues and needs of diverse communities. Through leadership, fundraising and grantmaking activities, often in partnership with individuals and organizations, the Foundation is helping Rhode Island reach its true potential. For more information about apply for a grant, visit www.rifoundation.org.