Illinois State Rep. Gregg Johnson is partnering with the Moline Regional Community Foundation (MRCF) on a $500,000 grant to support violence prevention, youth employment and operational expenses for nonprofits in Illinois’ 72nd House District.
The grant was made possible through the Illinois Department of Human Services from funds appropriated through the state’s General Revenue Fund, the East Moline Democrat said in a Monday, June 9, news release.
“These dollars are going directly to the boots-on-the-ground organizations that are doing the hard work in our neighborhoods every single day,” Mr. Johnson said in the release. “By providing flexible operational funding, we’re helping nonprofits stay focused on their mission, expand their reach and make our community better. At a time when federal programs are in jeopardy, I couldn’t be prouder to proactively take care of our own here in the Quad Cities.”
The foundation will administer fund distribution through a competitive grant process, designed to ensure equity, transparency, and alignment with community needs.
“As an organization with more than 70 years of expertise in local philanthropy, the Moline Regional Community Foundation is honored to partner with Rep. Johnson,” MRCF President and CEO Paul Plagenz told the QCBJ on Tuesday, June 10. “These operating grants will truly make a positive difference in the lives of our neighbors.”
More details to come
Funding amounts will vary based on the scope and impact of the proposed work, and priority will be given to projects that support underserved communities, youth opportunity, and public safety, Mr. Johnson’s office said. He also emphasized in the release that this state grant appropriation is about trust, empowerment, and local control.
“This isn’t about state officials telling local leaders what they need — it’s about lifting up the work that’s already happening and giving our partners the resources to keep going,” he said. “I’m proud to bring these funds home and even prouder of the organizations that will make every dollar count.”
More details, including application instructions and deadlines, will be released by the foundation in the coming weeks. Nonprofits interested in applying are encouraged to follow MRCF on social media, facebook.com/MolineFoundation, and visit its website for updates and to begin gathering their organizational documents, financial statements and project outlines. Follow state Rep. Gregg Johnson at www.linktr.ee/repgreggjohnson72.
