Agencies Receive $77,070 in Grants

TYLER — Three Tyler faith and community-based agencies have been awarded a total of $77,070 in grants to build their capacity to address priorities set by the North Tyler community. A Circle of Ten, Inc., leaders announced funding to Michael’s House of Hope ($40,000), ReHabitat of Smith County ($25,000), and Touched by Suicide ($12,070). The funds were made possible through the US Dept of Health & Human Services “Expanding Capacity Opportunities for Nonprofits” (ECON) grant, bringing $230,000 in competitive subgrants in the North Tyler area and $230,000 to the Greater Alto Area.

ECON is an initiative of A Circle of Ten, Inc., based in Jacksonville, TX, who will, along with several cooperating entities, provide much of the training and technical assistance. The subgrant funds will be used for additional capacity building such as attainment of 501c3 status, implementation of records systems, equipment, staff/volunteer development, and hiring of consultants offering specialized services.

Each of the awardees will focus on two or more of the previously identified community priorities, determined earlier this year during several priority setting meetings as part of the efforts of the North Tyler Rebuild America Initiative. Baseline priorities include community and economic development, with Green Jobs Academy opportunities through education and workforce, plus making homes/buildings energy efficient. Other priorities are set by each community. North Tyler Initiative’s top additional priorities include: health services to seniors and families, youth services and opportunities, and business development.

Faith and community-based agencies addressing North Tyler Initiative’s priorities are invited to apply for the second round of competitive subgrants. A Bidders’ Conference providing an overview and Q&A session is set for June 29, 6 pm, Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce at 526 E Commerce St., Jacksonville. Grant applications are due July 30. Additional information and the Requests for Proposals are available at http://www.etvv.org, 903-541-0013 or circleof10@circleof10.org.