Seven Diverse Affinity Groups Receive Mini Grants

The Board of Directors of Vibrant Pittsburgh and the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh’s Community Relations Council have approved $50,000 in Mini Grant awards to diverse community-based groups designed to increase the civic engagement of diverse and immigrant communities. This year’s theme was Systemic Inequities in the COVID-19 Era. 

The Mini Grants initiative was established in early 2012 to support and elevate the visibility of the region’s Affinity Groups and to leverage their interest in growing a more diverse place. Affinity Groups are civic, professional, community, student and other membership groups that represent or serve the region’s wide array of diverse communities.  

“The effects of the coronavirus pandemic and the eye-opening social unrest experienced over the past year have been felt deeply throughout our region. In light of this unique time, the seven Mini Grant awardees focus their efforts where people need it most urgently.”

Sabrina Saunders Mosby, president and CEO of Vibrant Pittsburgh

Over the years, the Mini Grant initiative has supported a wide range of activities, including mentoring and professional networking projects, social supports for LGBTQ women of color, welcoming initiatives for diverse newcomers, and refugee and immigrant projects that connect people to jobs and resources. “This year, our support will advance economic parity, gender equity, belonging, and overall well-being during a time of significant challenge for the region’s most vulnerable citizens. Our vision is to create a Pittsburgh that is a designation of choice for people of all backgrounds and that begins with investing in the diversity of talent that is here,” said Mosby. 

A review panel consisting of leaders from business, education and nonprofit sectors reviewed the proposals. The final selection was approved by Vibrant Pittsburgh’s Board of Directors.  

The 2021 Vibrant Pittsburgh Mini Grants award recipients are:

• Latino Community Center
• Kitchen of Grace
• The Greenwood Plan
• Hello Neighbor
• Foster Love Project
• SisTers PGH
• When She Thrives

“The recipients of this year’s grants represent the values of diversity, innovation, and service to community. We look forward to seeing the impact that these important projects will make on the communities they serve,” said Laura Cherner, director of the Community Relations Council of the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh.

About Vibrant Pittsburgh
Vibrant Pittsburgh is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the growth and economic competitiveness of the Pittsburgh region by engaging the region’s employers; attracting, retaining and elevating a diverse talent pool; and positioning the region nationally and internationally as an inclusive and welcoming place for people of all backgrounds. Vibrant Pittsburgh efforts and this Mini Grants initiative are made possible by Vibrant Pittsburgh Members; more information is available at www.vibrantpittsburgh.org.

About the Urban Affairs Foundation
The purpose of the Urban Affairs Foundation, part of the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh’s Community Relations Council, is to promote the involvement of Jewish organizations and individuals in urban concerns. The Community Relations Council engages in public policy activities to promote harmonious relations and mutual understanding within and beyond the Jewish community and to support the State of Israel.