Upcoming Events and Engagement Opportunities
2021 Jumpstart Community Safety Grant - Apply by January 1, 2021
The 2021 Winter/Spring JumpStart application cycle is now open. The Jumpstart Grant can support your grassroots efforts to promote community safety. Program funds are available for projects in the following categories:
- Conflict Resolution and Mediation
- Crime Fighting & Prevention
- Opportunities for Youth and/or Parents
- Family Stability
- Addressing Racial Segregation
Non-profit and community organizations may submit applications for grants up to $5000. Projects must serve residents within the Charlotte city limits.
The process of applying for a Jumpstart Grant begins with submitting a Letter of Intent. The deadline to submit your Letter of Intent is January 1. Learn more about the Jumpstart Community Safety Grant here.
Civic Leadership Academy applications are OPEN - Apply by January 18, 2021
The City of Charlotte’s Civic Leadership Academy is a free program specifically designed for residents like you—Charlotteans who are ready to take the next step in being community leaders and improving the quality of life in all of Charlotte’s neighborhoods. The experience will provide participants an opportunity to grow in their leadership, understand how the City of Charlotte works, analyze issues using data, connect with decision makers, and make a difference in their communities.
During the Civic Leadership Academy, you will:
- Receive a personalized leadership assessment
- Learn how to efficiently utilize your leadership style to positively impact the community
- Enhance your understanding of Charlotte history and culture
- Develop relationships with other leaders in the community and local government
- Learn to navigate issues through local government
- Commit to using your leadership skills in the broader community
Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your leadership skills and to work with other leaders to create a community where every voice is heard.
The Spring 2021 CLA will be held virtually – participants must commit to missing no more than three sessions. To review the workshop schedule or to apply visit.
Applications must be received by January 18, sessions begin March 12.
For additional information contact Philip Freeman at philip.freeman@charlottenc.gov or 704-336-1303.
Neighborhood Board Retreat (NBR) - Apply by January 15, 2021
The Neighborhood Board Retreat is an opportunity for neighborhoods and business associations to assess the current state of their community, identify and prioritize strategic goals, create action plans and improve the quality of life in Charlotte's neighborhoods.
The Neighborhood Board Retreat will be held virtually. Neighborhoods will receive a customized, interactive workshop delivered via Zoom hosted by a trained facilitator. Eligible neighborhoods will also qualify for a $1500 Neighborhood Matching Grant credit.
To apply, click here. In order for your application to be considered, you must have at least five (5) participants from your neighborhood or business association register. Capacity is limited and applicants will be considered on a first-come, first-serve basis with priority given to first-time attendees. The deadline to apply is January 15, 2021. Individual neighborhood retreats will begin the third week of February at a date and time agreed upon by the group.
For more information, contact Nichelle Wilson at nichelle.wilson@charlottenc.gov.
Financial Navigators Program
In partnership with national nonprofit organization the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund (CFE Fund), the City of Charlotte and Common Wealth Charlotte announced a new, free Financial Navigators program to help residents navigate critical financial issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Financial Navigators provide free guidance over the phone to help residents access programs and services to manage income disruptions and other financial concerns. Financial Navigators help residents one-on-one with:
- Prioritizing daily living expenses like housing, food and insurance
- Maximizing income through accessing benefits, emergency cash assistance and emergency loans
- Managing debt, from credit cards and student loans to child support
- Avoiding predatory scams
- Budgeting for future loss of income
- Accessing other social services such as Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Services
Residents can access these remote services by completing the web form at finnav.org/clt or calling 311 to sign up. The financial navigator will then send a short service agreement and call the client to begin their personal session. Services are available in English and Spanish and can be accessed Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Organizations across Charlotte can also refer clients directly to a financial navigator.
Learn more about this program here.
https://charlottenc.gov/newsroom/cityhighlights/Pages/Financial-Navigator.aspx
Pandemic Assistance Available to Charlotte Water Customers – December 31 Funding Deadline
Funding is currently available to help residents pay their past due water bills. The Charlotte Water Customer Care Team will work one-on-one with customers to connect them with community assistance agencies including Crisis Assistance Ministry, The Housing Partnership, Common Wealth Charlotte and other organizations that can provide help.
Customers can call 311 during business hours or visit charlottewater.org for more details. Funds will expire on December 31.
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