Written by: Katie Scott
Eighteen US grassroots organisations will be getting a share of $1 million in community grants from Jordan Brand. The selected non-for-profits were recognized for their work in fighting systemic racism and delivering locally-relevant solutions to reduce inequality.
“Each of these groups has demonstrated the courage to make a difference at the local level and I could not be more proud to support the work they are doing.” - Michael Jordan
“Action over words is the foundation of our Black Community Commitment,” said Michael Jordan. “These 18 organisations put action over words every day to make their communities a better place. Each of these groups has demonstrated the courage to make a difference at the local level and I could not be more proud to support the work they are doing.”
The recipients include The Billie Holiday Theatre in Brooklyn, New York, which describes itself as a “beacon for world class art rooted in racial justice” and Mortar Cincinnati, which “allows historically marginalized entrepreneurs to access the resources needed to start and run successful businesses”.
Narrowing down the recipients was a tough task, admits Craig Williams, President of Jordan Brand. He said: “We received hundreds of applications for Community Grants, and every single one of them was a reminder of the unique impact and powerful personal connections local community efforts can make happen.”
This award – the second made - is part of a ten year commitment announced in 2020 by Michael Jordan and Jordan Brand to donate $100 million over the next 10 years. In June 2020, the brand detailed its focus will be on social justice; economic justice and education and awareness, and made three initial awards. Donations of $1 million each were made to the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund and the Formerly Incarcerated & Convicted People and Families Movement, and $500,000 to Black Voters Matter to support reformative practices that drive real change in the Black community.
To qualify to apply, organisations must have a total operating budget of less than $3 million and a track record of success in demonstrating a path to sustainable change.
