Community Solutions Grants

A multi-year funding initiative launched in May 2025 that invests in nonprofits creating innovative, community-driven strategies to strengthen safety, resilience, and well-being.

Total Program Funding (Initial Round): $450,000 (May 2025 awards)

Purpose:

• Support ground-level, community-driven strategies
• Address systemic issues related to community safety and well-being
• Empower communities through tangible, innovative solutions
• Focus on creating Safe and Resilient Places

Focus Areas:

• Community safety initiatives
• Justice system reform and alternatives
• Violence prevention and healing
• Youth programs and alternatives to incarceration
• Police accountability and transparency
• Conflict resolution and community trust-building

Geographic Scope: Greater Memphis and Mid-South region (Tennessee)

Funded Through: FOREVER Funds

Award Timing:

• Program launched: May 28, 2025
• First round awards: May 2025
• Multi-year initiative (ongoing)

Diversity Commitment: 80% of funded agencies in first round led by executive directors/CEOs of color

Review Process: Volunteer Community Initiatives Committee

2025 Award Recipients:

1. Decarcerate Memphis - $50,000 (police transparency and rights education)
2. Heal 901 - $100,000 (youth justice diversion and community trust)
3. Memphis Artists for Change - $150,000 (community safety advocacy training)
4. Playback Memphis - $81,250 (community healing through theater)
5. Stand for Children Tennessee - $68,750 (youth incarceration alternatives)

Contact Information:

• Community Foundation of Greater Memphis
• 1350 Concourse Avenue, Suite 458
• Memphis, TN 38104
• Phone: (901) 728-4600
• Website: cfgm.org

Application Process

Specific application procedures, deadlines, required materials, and submission format are not detailed in the provided content. Organizations interested in applying should contact the Community Foundation directly or visit their grants page for current guidelines.

Award Range: Varies based on proposal and community need (examples: $50,000 - $150,000)

Eligibility: Organizations must demonstrate:

• Deep connection to communities served
• Active collaboration with community members
• Community-driven strategy design and implementation
• Focus on creating innovative, tangible solutions for safety and resilience