Inspirit Foundation calls for applications for projects that empower young Canadians of different beliefs

The new foundation will provide $250,000 in grants to projects that foster inclusion and community building

Toronto, June 19, 2012 – Today, the Inspirit Foundation, a new grant-making organization that works to foster a more inclusive and pluralistic Canada, launched its Bridge Building Grants with the first call for applications for funding. The pilot granting program will support projects that help young Canadians – aged 18 to 30 and from different religious, spiritual, and secular beliefs – to work together to address the needs in their communities.

“At the Inspirit Foundation, we believe in pluralism, an approach to diversity that goes beyond tolerance,” said Andrea Nemtin, President and CEO, Inspirit Foundation. “The initiatives we will fund through the Bridge Building Grants will foster meaningful exchange between young Canadians of different beliefs that will remove misperceptions and lead to the discovery of common threads that unite us all.”

The Inspirit Bridge Building Grants will provide $250,000 in funding, with grants ranging from $5,000 to $25,000. The deadline for applications is August 3, 2012.

The granting program welcomes applications from registered charitable organizations from across Canada that are collaborating or will collaborate with other organizations or community groups on a project that will effect positive change for young adults from diverse backgrounds and beliefs. Organizations interested in applying for grants are encouraged to review the guidelines and application form at www.inspiritfoundation.ca.

Priority will be placed on initiatives that foster learning, collaboration and community building. Examples of eligible initiatives include: arts, culture and media projects; community and civic service efforts; local environmental initiatives; and knowledge and skills development programs.

 

About the Inspirit Foundation

The Inspirit Foundation is a national grant-making organization that supports Canadians, particularly young adults, in building a more inclusive and pluralistic Canada. One way the foundation does this is by funding initiatives that foster engagement and exchange between young Canadians of different religious, spiritual, and secular beliefs.

For more information, visit www.inspiritfoundation.ca.

You can also follow us on Twitter @InspiritFdn.

### Applicant contact: Gwen Joy – – 416-644-3600, ext. 4

Media contact: Luciana Tuzino – – 416-644-3600, ext. 5 Mobile: 647-802-1296