April 21, 2004 – Religious organizations and other faith-based groups with social outreach programs in the territory will have an opportunity on May 7 to learn what's available in the way of federal "compassion capital" funding and how to access it.
The information will be shared at a Human Services Department grant-applications workshop at Palms Court Harborview Hotel on St. Thomas. Faith-based not-for-profit and community organizations are invited to send representatives; there is no charge.
About $30 million a year in compassion funds is available nationwide, Lennox Zamore of Human Services said. Organizations must apply directly to the federal government for grants, he said, and the competition is keen, so organizations in the Virgin Islands have to know how to apply, and that is what the workshop is all about.
"My particular interest is making sure that the territory is not left out," Zamore said. He said he wasn't sure if there is a cap on the amount of money an organization can receive.
Robert J. Polito, director of the Human Services Faith and Community Initiative Program, will be the keynote speaker.
In addition to talking about applying for grants, Polito, who has worked extensively with establishing faith- and community-based programs, also will share his insights on structuring social programs.
The workshop will run from 8 a.m. to about 1 p.m., with continental breakfast and a light lunch provided. Advance registration is required. Those interested in attending are asked to call Zamore at 774-0930, ext. 4477 or 4257.
Polito will visit St. Croix on May 6 but will not conduct a workshop on the island.
Churches should not necessarily be represented by their pastors at the session, Zamore noted. "The ideal person to attend is someone with writing skills," he said.
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