Reconciliation Grant from the Pro-Reconciliation & Anti-Racism Ministry

OVERVIEW

The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Illinois and Wisconsin (CCIW)and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Michigan Region (CCMR) embrace the wider church’s call to be a Pro-Reconciling/Anti-Racist (PRAR) community. Rooted in the Reconciliation Ministry established in 1968 and affirmed in 1972, this work continues the church’s commitment to dismantle systemic racism and build a fully transformed, multicultural church. Through the leadership of the PRAR Team, CCIW & CCMR seek to live into its vision of being a radically welcoming region that nurtures wholeness, justice, and inclusion for all.

GENERAL GRANT GUIDELINES

Grant applications are accepted on a rolling basis and reviewed quarterly, with funding decisions made in January, April, July, and October. To be considered in a given cycle, complete applications must be submitted at least 30 days prior to the decision month (for example, applications received in January will be evaluated for April decisions).

Applications must be fully completed before they will be reviewed. The PRAR Team reserves the right to request additional information or supporting materials in order to thoroughly evaluate a proposal.

Priority consideration will be given to first-time applicants, whether individuals or congregations/ministries. However, all qualifying applications are welcome and will be reviewed.

Recipients of a grant will be asked to submit a narrative report describing the project or experience supported by the grant. In some cases, grantees may also be invited to share their learnings as part of a regional-sponsored gathering such as Regional Assembly or a PRAR workshop.

PRAR Offers Two Types of Grants

COMMUNITY/MINISTRY GRANTS

The PRAR Team invites CCIW and CCMR congregations and ministries to apply for grants of up to $5,000 in support of our vision to be a fully transformed, anti-racist, multicultural church. Funding will be awarded to innovative programs that foster healthy conversations on racism, projects that empower communities disproportionately impacted by systemic racism, and initiatives that organize for human rights and full inclusion of all people in the beloved community.

Grants may not be used for facility improvements, equipment purchases, or staff salaries unrelated to the project.

INDIVIDUAL GRANTS

The PRAR Team invites CCIW and CCMR individuals who identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) to apply for grants up to $2,000. These grants are intended to strengthen and support both lay and clergy leaders in BIPOC communities by fostering deeper connections to the wider church, providing opportunities for rest and renewal through retreats or continuing education, and reducing barriers caused by systemic racism that make travel, respite, and relationship-building more difficult.

Funds may be used to attend Regional or General Assembly, participate in retreats, or provide pulpit supply while pastors are away.

Individuals must be active members of a CCIW or CCMR congregation.

Online Application Form