Grants will support seven organizations working in five historic area neighborhoods championing solutions to significant social issues
(above image courtesy of Green Dot Coalition)
(Dec. 11, 2023) – RiNo Art District, a 501(c)(6) nonprofit arts organization dedicated to fostering a welcoming, creative community where a diversity of artists, residents and business thrive, today announced the recipients of $75,000 in Social Impact Grants. This is the largest amount awarded for the Social Impact Grants to date.
With the goal of placing equity at the center of grant-making decisions, recipients are nominated by a diverse committee of local community members, this year led by Denver City Council District 9 Councilman Darrell Watson.
“RiNo’s Social Impact Grants allow us to amplify and celebrate the extraordinary work taking place every day in our District to address some of our most pressing social issues,” said Councilman Watson. “These grants are an investment in a city that works for everyone, and I’m excited to see how the selected organizations leverage their funds in service of their neighborhoods and their communities.”
CIRCLE, EGS + Partners, Green Dot, Mo Betta, The People's Pickle and Youth Empowerment Broadcasting Organization (YEBO Media) will each receive $10,000 to support community members in the five historic neighborhoods. Birdseed Collective will receive $15,000 to support their mission of educating and empowering disadvantaged and under-resourced individuals throughout the Denver area through food delivery, environmental equity work, youth-focused projects and events, art accessibility, work with immigrant communities, and more.
“There were so many incredible organizations nominated this year addressing everything from social justice and food scarcity to homelessness and youth arts education,” said Alye Sharp, Deputy Director of RiNo Art District. “We are so appreciative of the review committee’s passion for identifying and advocating for these organizations and appreciate our BID’s commitment to directing RiNo’s collective resources towards this important work in our community.”
RiNo has awarded unrestricted grants each year since 2020 to organizations in Five Points, Globeville, Elyria-Swansea and Cole. To date, the organization has awarded a total of $225,000. The RiNo Business Improvement District (BID) has additionally committed to increasing funding for the Social Impact Grants program every year.
“We extend our deep gratitude to the RiNo Art District for their generous support to EGS & Partners,“ said Sandra Ruiz Parrilla, CEO of EGS & Partners. “This fund will not only strengthen our mission to improve our neighborhoods and offer vital mental health art therapy programs but will also allow us to grow and get even closer to the community, effectively engaging residents in Elyria-Swansea and Globeville neighborhoods. Together, we will move forward toward promoting environmental and social justice, promoting health, and building a stronger, healthier community. Thank you for being a valued partner in our shared mission!"
About the Grantees
Birdseed Collective – Works to transform the lives of artists, youths, individuals, and communities through visionary art, civic projects, and programs.
CIRCLE – Works with young people, schools, and organizations across sectors to address systemic inequity and interpersonal inclusiveness.
EGS + Partners – Cultivates and maintains relationships with candidates and employees while empowering them through development, knowledge, coaching and integrity.
Green Dot Coalition – An equity-focused placemaking organization working to translate community vision into green spaces, practices, and policies.
Mo Betta Green Marketplace – Black-owned farmers market that provides low-cost food and accessible wellness events.
The People's Pickles – Community-driven transitional job training program that provides employment for marginalized individuals in Colorado while producing the best pickles in Denver.
YEBO Media – Nonprofit media organization that aims to promote personal and communal well-being in BIPOC communities by creating spaces for sharing and listening to stories.
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To learn more about RiNo Art District’s Social Impact Grant program, please contact support@rinoartdistrict.org.