On the Thursday edition of “Closer Look,” Urban League President and CEO Nancy Flake Johnson discusses the organization’s partnership with the city to create its collaborative Youth Development Program.
The initiative, launched in partnership with Mayor Andre Dickens, is a grant program for local, community-based organizations that serve Atlanta students in grades K-12. The initiative — offering one million dollars to its chosen organizations — will have three grant cycles, the first of which is set to be awarded this year.
Affordable housing has become scarce amid widespread rent increases in the state. Johnson noted increases in rent beyond 25-30% of original lease rates, stressing that wages have not risen to equate to the cost of living.
The initiative is seeking Atlanta-based, grassroots organizations suited to serve low to moderate income families hit the hardest from the pandemic within Atlanta Public Schools. The program will focus on academic enrichment programming, the arts, athletic programs and cultural enrichment opportunities.
“At the end of the day it’s all about connecting with the people in the community who need these resources,” Johnson said.
