United Way Seeks Grant Proposals

The United Way wants to hear from all churches, clinics, schools, service agencies, nonprofit organizations and individuals that have ideas for improving Sun Valley, a traditionally underserved geographic area.

“It’s basically an open call,” said Roy Mata of the United Way’s North Angeles Region. Mata said United Way must spend $16,000 in uncommitted grant funds for Sun Valley by April, or the money will be lost.

“The money is there, and hasn’t been distributed because there haven’t been enough proposals” for community projects to fund, Mata said.

United Way has provided funds through the Sun Valley Community Venture Council since 1991, Mata said. The council, which includes residents, homeowners, agency chiefs, church leaders, merchants and others, meets monthly to decide what kinds of community service programs to fund.

The council steers money to programs that emphasize youth empowerment, community education and beautification.

Past programs the council has funded include a youth mural project and a computer homework center at the Sun Valley Branch Public Library.

“We’re looking for programs that provide something that will stay in the community, such as health services, tutorial services or scholarships for kids,” Mata said.

The deadline for submitting grant proposals is March 8. Proposals will be reviewed by members of the Community Venture Council at a meeting on March 19.

For more information or to receive a proposal application, call (818) 374-4007.