Author
Marc Antoine Lavarin
Pastor
The Rev. Dr. Marc Antoine Lavarin, Sr. serves as the eighth pastor of the First Calvary Baptist Church in Durham, North Carolina. Prior to his call to First Calvary, he served as an assistant minister at the historic Alfred Street Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia, under the leadership of the Rev. Dr. Howard-John Wesley. He completed his doctor of ministry degree in educational leadership at Virginia Theological Seminary concentrating on the influence of the Black church on K-12 education.
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. Learn more about the guidelines for submitting concept papers at the Serving Neighbors webpage. The Endowment will also host virtual information sessions on November 2 and November 3.
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