Author
Beth Crissman
District superintendent, UMC Western North Carolina Conference
Beth Crissman is superintendent of the Uwharrie District of the Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church and director of Peace Building Ministries for the conference. She is the author of the Purple Church Initiative.
Lilly Endowment Inc. announces Serving Neighbors Initiative
Lilly Endowment Inc. invites eligible charitable organizations to submit concept papers for its Serving Neighbors Through Congregational Collaborations Initiative. The initiative supports efforts to help Christian congregations and local charitable organizations build relationships, identify community priorities, and design lasting collaborations that improve life for individuals and families. Projects might address housing instability, youth opportunities, parks and outdoor recreation, mental health, or other locally identified needs.
Approximately 60 charitable organizations with promising concept papers may receive planning grants of up to $50,000. Those selected may then apply for implementation grants of up to $5 million to carry out their programs.
Concept papers are due by January 19, 2027.
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