Melissa Earley
United Methodist Pastor
Melissa Earley is the lead pastor of First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights, IL. She has written for the Christian Century and United Methodist Disciplines. She is also active in the Chicago story-telling community and recently won her first Moth Story Slam. She blogs at www.melissa-earley.com.
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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