Neighborhood Excellence Initiative Awards

6th Annual Neighborhood Excellence Initiative: Bank of America will award $450,000 in grants and recognition to deserving individuals and non-profit organizations in Central Florida (Orange, Seminole, Osceola and Lake Counties).

Organizations and individuals are encouraged to submit applications and nominations in the following two categories:

1) Local Hero Award: Deadline June 30, 2009
The Local Hero Award was created to honor outstanding individuals who are making a difference in the Central Florida community and serve as role models, advocates, mentors or volunteers and are inspiring others to get involved as well! Consider nominating a board member, volunteer, staff member, a donor, a client, or another leader whom you feel has earned the title of "Local Hero" for their exemplary service to the community.

Award: Five Local Heroes are awarded a $5,000 grant to be given to the eligible non-profit organization of their choice.

2) Neighborhood Builder Award: Deadline June 30, 2009
The Neighborhood Builder Award recognizes non-profit organizations that are working to bring about positive change in the Central Florida community while addressing pressing community needs. The award is focused on strengthening the capacity and infrastructure of non-profit organizations and promotes the leadership development of their executives. Bank of America seeks applications from qualified non-profits that are focused on the following priority areas:

Community Development – with an emphasis on Affordable Housing, Neighborhood Revitalization, and Small Business Development
Health & Human Services - with an emphasis on Family Support Services
Arts & Culture – with an emphasis on Arts Education and access to the arts for underserved communities

Award: Two Neighborhood Builders are awarded a $200,000 grant (operating support) paid $100,000 annually for two (2) years. In addition, the organization’s Senior Executive and an Emerging Leader attend leadership training workshops throughout the year.

Apply:
Log on to bankofamerica.com/foundation. Click on Neighborhood Excellence Initiative. Click on the appropriate links to apply for Neighborhood Builders and Local Heroes. Applications are reviewed by a selection committee and winners will be awarded November 2009 (Source)