A new initiative by The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles aims to prove that it doesn’t take a lot of money to make a big difference.
The ChangeMaker Challenge will award small grants to project proposals that demonstrate the greatest potential to make an impact in the areas of transportation, civic life, economic development, education and fighting hunger in this city.
“Maybe you’ve got an idea for an ongoing service project, or a grassroots initiative, or an art installation that will change the face of Los Angeles. … In the spirit of tikkun olam [repairing the world], we’re looking for innovative ideas that will make L.A. a better place for us all. If your idea is chosen, we’ll make it take off together!” read a statement released by Federation the week of Sept 29.
The challenge will award grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, with a panel of L.A. community and civic leaders serving as judges. Jews and non-Jews, whether as individuals or as members of organizations or groups, are eligible to submit a proposal by Nov. 8. Winners will be announced Dec. 1.
“A key goal of the ChangeMaker Challenge is to build strong ties between the Jewish community and other communities across Los Angeles, so those applying from outside the Jewish community will be encouraged to partner with the Jewish community, and vice versa,” Federation’s Web site states. “The Jewish Federation will help applicants make those connections.”
The ChangeMaker Challenge is part of Federation’s Community Engagement Strategic Initiative.
For more information or to submit a proposal, visit jewishla.org.
