City of Grand Rapids, MI

09/30/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/30/2024 11:59

City seeks Pitch Night ideas to reduce violence

City seeks Pitch Night ideas to reduce violence

Published on September 30, 2024

SAFE Task Force will fund new and creative ways to make it happen

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - The Safe Alliances for Everyone (SAFE) Task Force is looking to offer funding to those committed to helping to reduce gun violence in our community. It will do that through its next Pitch and Highlight Night Tuesday, Oct. 29. Those organizations and individuals who pitch proposals to reduce gun violence in Grand Rapids may be awarded financial support to make those ideas possible. Nonprofits and individuals may submit proposals to the SAFE Task Force through October 21 at https://bit.ly/PITCHNIGHT-Apply.

Those submitting ideas will then make their pitch at SAFE's next Pitch and Highlight Night Tuesday, Oct. 29. The event takes place from 6 to 8 p.m. at GRPS University at 1400 Fuller Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505.

"The upcoming Pitch and Highlight Night is more than just an event; it's an opportunity," said Staff Liaison Asante Cain. "We understand that the most impactful strategies to address violence in Grand Rapids often come from within our own community. The SAFE Task Force is here to fund and support these initiatives, offering a platform to turn dreams into practical solutions that build safer, more prosperous neighborhoods."

Nonprofits and individuals will compete for a partnership with the SAFE Task Force and $10,000 to support their efforts to reduce violence in the community. Five winners will be selected to partner with the City and perform their proposals. Participants will get five minutes to present their idea and show how it will be effective in reducing violence in Grand Rapids.

  • Proposals must seek to reduce violence and/or gun violence in Grand Rapids
  • Focus on young people involved in violence 12-24 years of age
  • Programs/interventions must take place between the months of March and September 2025
  • Demonstrate how they align with the recommendations of the SAFE Task Force, the Police Department's Strategic Plan, and/or the City's Strategic Plan.

More information can be found at the SAFE Task Force's website: grandrapidsmi.gov/SAFE.

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