Lake Superior Initiative, a joint project of the Duluth Area Family YMCA and United Way of Greater Duluth, awarded more than $212,000 to 20 community-based, faith-based and tribal-based organizations in the region.
Locally, the Alano Society of Carlton County received $6,069 to support organizational leadership development and technology.
The awards are part of a three-year, $2.25 million federally-funded program designed to provide needed services to the community.
Organizations that qualified serve people in need such as: individuals and families experiencing poverty; at-risk youth, people transitioning from welfare to work; people facing addiction; and former prisoners re-entering the community.
While the grant cannot be used for general program or operating expenses, the funds can be used for strategic planning, training, equipment and other efforts to improve organizational efficiency and sustainability. In addition to providing grants, Lake Superior Initiative will also provide customized trainings and one-on-one technical assistance.
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"These grants will improve the quality of organizations, and encourage them to do what they do best - help people," said Julie Munger, program director for Lake Superior Initiative.
Proposals were submitted by organizations throughout St. Louis, Cook, Lake and Carlton counties of Minnesota, and Douglas County in Wisconsin. Review panels consisting of 25 community volunteers throughout the five-county region donated over 300 volunteer hours and provided qualitative and quantitative data needed to select grantees based on a demonstrated need for capacity building funding, identified goals and the ability to carry out their proposed objectives.
"We are pleased to announce the first year grant recipients, and look forward to improved community programs as a result of these funds," said Blair Gagne, community services manager from the Duluth Area Family YMCA.
Lake Superior Initiative will seek applicants for its next round of grants, with information sessions beginning in September. For more information, visit www.unitedwayduluth.org/ourwork_lsi.htm .
