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Notice of Funding Availability

Office of Gun Violence Prevention (OGVP) Building Blocks DC (BBDC) Mini Grants
BBDC Logo
Progressive Life Center (PLC) and the Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services (DYRS) in partnership with Office of Gun Violence Prevention (OGVP), is collaborating to reduce gun violence in neighborhoods one block at a time. As part of an intention to invest in the community, PLC, DYRS, and OGVP understand that those who reside in the communities will provide suggestions and assist with solutions to prevent gun violence. This request for applications seeks small entities, organizations, and individuals to propose creative services to support community members in promoting public safety.
OGVP offers funding opportunities through grants to DYRS/PLC designed to support community-based activities that will make neighborhoods safer. This will further empower the community to participate in community reinvestment strategies and promote productive and self-sustaining neighborhoods.

Priority will be given to those District locations affected by recent gun violence. Categories include the following but are not limited to:

Community Wealth

  • Skills Building
  • Leadership Development
  • Community Cohesion & Encouragement
  • Providing support of basic needs

Community Revitalization

  • Community organizing activities
  • Neighborhood outreach
  • Providing activities in a safe space
  • Murals, block cleaning, community gardens

Community Healing

  • Community Responses to Violence
  • Restorative Justice Supports
  • Direct intervention activities
  • Healing/Mental Wellness

Eligible Organizations/Entities:
Community-based non-profit groups and organizations, clergy groups, individuals or small businesses located in the District of Columbia are eligible to apply. For profit organizations are eligible but may not include profit in their grant application. For-profit organizations may also participate as subcontractors to eligible applicants.

Award Amount:
The grants offered will be mini grants with a maximum award amount of either $5,000 or $15,000. Only one grant will be allowed per applicant.

Application Deadline:
The deadline for all applications is 4pm on Friday, February 21, 2025.

Grant Notifications:
Notifications of awards will be made by COB Friday, March 21, 2025.

Service Deliver Period:
The anticipated service delivery period is between April 1, 2025 to May 6, 2025.
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