By Okon Ekpenyong

Columbus Councilmember Nancy Day-Achauer, in partnership with the city of Columbus, the Human Service Chamber of Franklin County, and Libby V & Associates, has launched the ‘Getting Grant Ready Academy.’ 

Throughout her career in the human services sector and now in public office, Councilmember Nancy Day-Achauer has seen firsthand the challenges small nonprofits encounter when accessing professional resources such as education training, coaching, fundraising, and networking. 

This comprehensive academy program will include educational workshops, one-on-one coaching sessions, and networking opportunities to prepare nonprofits to secure grant funding. 

This new initiative has the potential to significantly enhance the community impact of these organizations. It will also help them connect with the right partners and provide a much-needed educational pathway to increase their chances of securing grant funding. The deadline to apply for the first cohort is August 26, 2024, due by noon. The city council will release the names of those selected by August 29.

These organizations generally organize community food drives, mental health awareness events, employment assistance, and affordable housing initiatives. They also work to ensure that individuals can live, work, and practice their religion without discrimination and be an integral part of their community.

Between 15-20 nonprofit organizations will have the unique opportunity to be part of the first cohort, a testament to their valuable work in the community. 

The Office of Councilmember Day-Achauer and the Libby V & Associates team will select the participants. The Human Service Chamber will not be involved in the review or selection process of the applicants.

Members will be enrolled in a year-long program led by Libby V & Associates to develop their fundraising capabilities. Additionally, they will be granted a one-year membership to the Human Service Chamber, providing access to various membership benefits such as networking opportunities, professional development resources, and advocacy support. Moreover, they can participate in training, coaching, and networking events to improve their grant-writing skills. 

The program is available to 501(c)(3) nonprofits in good standing and meeting specific eligibility criteria. The criteria include helping address Columbus’s health and human services or youth programming needs. The program is designed to help organizations align with their missions and support meaningful work in the community.

Councilmember Day-Achauer’s commitment to supporting small nonprofits reflects her dedication to creating a more equitable and vibrant community. By providing these organizations with the chance to explore what tools and resources are out there to succeed, she aims to amplify their impact and foster a brighter future for Columbus.

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