Foundation News
Civic Foundation awards $75,000 in community grants to nonprofits advancing housing and human services in North Carolina
Civic Foundation is honored to award $75,000 in community grants to three nonprofits focused on housing and human service needs across the state. Each recipient will receive a $25,000 grant to continue their impactful work and reflects the Foundation’s commitment to supporting newly formed nonprofits deeply rooted in service and community.
The recipients are:
“What makes these grantees so special is the heart behind their work — the intentional way they show up, meet people where they are, and make life a little easier for those who need it most,” said Jaz Kilpatrick, Executive Director of Civic Foundation. “I’m truly thrilled that Civic Foundation can come alongside them, and I look forward to the difference we’ll continue to make together for the good of the communities they serve.”
The selected organizations were chosen from a competitive pool of 22 applicants. Each met the Foundation’s new eligibility criteria — operating for 10 years or fewer and with annual budgets under $1 million.
These grant recipients will also complete a professional development course through the NC Community College System’s Small Business Center and engage with local municipal or county leadership to further strengthen their community partnerships.
Meet the grant recipients
Bike Box Project – Craven County and surrounding areas
Dedicated to supporting people with Parkinson’s disease and their families, Bike Box Project has been giving hope through movement since 2018. Its core program, Rock Steady Boxing, is a non-contact, high-intensity fitness class that has been scientifically proven to slow the progression of Parkinson’s symptoms. Funding will update essential boxing equipment, provide financial assistance to participants in need, and implement the Parkinson’s Assessment and Reporting System (PARS) — which tracks each participant’s physical, motor, and cognitive function to help measure the program’s impact.
Eden Village of Wilmington – New Hanover, Brunswick, and Pender counties
Founded in 2020, Eden Village of Wilmington is a 31-unit tiny home community that offers permanent, supportive housing for people experiencing chronic homelessness and living with disabilities. With support from Civic Foundation, Eden Village of Wilmington will stock its community store with essential supplies for an entire year. Residents volunteer within the community and earn points for their service, which are redeemable at the store.
Y ME Mobility Assistance – Mecklenburg County
Founded in 2023, Y ME Mobility Assistance is changing lives for families raising children with disabilities and veterans facing mobility challenges. This organization provides grants and subsidies for vehicle adaptations — including wheelchair lifts, hand controls, and ramp installations — empowering individuals with greater independence, safety, and freedom. Grant funding will provide vehicle modification grants to at least 15 households over the next 12 months, as well as support for outreach efforts, educational materials, and installation services.
Y ME Mobility Assistance is also being recognized as Civic Foundation’s 2025 Grant Recipient of the Year!
About the Civic Foundation
Civic Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Civic Credit Union. It exists to support thriving communities through investments in equity, education, financial well-being, and disaster resilience.
Are you a North Carolina nonprofit working to create lasting, local impact? Apply for a Civic Foundation grant and join a growing network of change-makers building stronger, more equitable communities in our state.
The current application period is open now through November 15.