One Second Collaborative (OSC) is now accepting applications for its 2024 microgrant initiative, aimed at supporting efforts to combat youth gun violence. Tarrant County organizations with programs that support this effort are encouraged to apply for funding through the newly opened Request for Application (RFA) process.
Applications must be submitted by Friday, Sept. 20, 2024 at 10 a.m.
Eligibility
Organizations eligible to apply include Tarrant County-based nonprofits and agencies formed before June 1, 2021, and/or those conducting proposed efforts in Tarrant County.
Additionally, organizations with at least two years of experience serving people ages 14 to 24, or those serving individuals and families affected by or at risk of youth gun violence in Tarrant County, may also apply.
Priority will be given to organizations based in and working within the following OSC target ZIP codes: 76104, 76105, 76134, 76036, 76119, 76112, 76116, 76010, 76011, 76133, 76106.
Current and past OSC funded recipients are eligible to apply if:
- 90% of agreed-upon metrics for past funding are met by Sept. 1, 2024
- Close out procedures for past funding are 100% met by Sept. 30, 2024
Important Dates
- Application release: Sept. 11, 2024
- Application deadline: Sept. 20, 2024, at 10 a.m.
- Notification of award: On or about Sept. 27, 2024
- Mandatory virtual orientation: Oct. 8, 2024
- Funding period: Oct. 7, 2024, to Dec. 10, 2024 (no extensions will be granted)
Program Focus Areas
Proposed events and programs MUST support efforts to reduce youth shooting deaths and decrease violent crime in Tarrant County within one of these tiers:
- Tier 1 Prevention: Community education, awareness, and engagement events designed to increase participant knowledge, promote active involvement with available resources, encourage behavior change and commitment to violence prevention, and/or foster stronger community partnerships.
- Tier 2 Intervention: Community and/or school-based programs and services that equip students and youth directly impacted or at high risk of becoming impacted by violence with the skills they need to manage conflicts, build healthy relationships and avoid violent behaviors and incidences.
- Tier 3 Re-Entry and Survivor Supports: Programs and services designed to support individuals reintegrating into the community after incarceration or surviving gun violence. These programs focus on facilitating successful reintegration, promoting recovery and healing, reducing recidivism, fostering self-sufficiency, addressing underlying issues such as trauma and mental health, and providing the tools necessary to rebuild lives.
Proposed events and programs outside of the scope of the program will not be considered.
Application Process
RFA applications must be submitted using the online form linked below. Incomplete proposals will not be considered. Only one application may be submitted per organization.
Review and Selection Process
All applications will be evaluated impartially and comprehensively by a grant committee using a peer-reviewed approach. This committee consists of representatives from United Way of Tarrant County, the City of Fort Worth, community-based organizations and youth leaders.
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Scoring Rubric
All applications will be scored on a 20-point scale based on the following criteria:
- Program Overview/Strategy (5 points max): The application should thoroughly outline the project, including detailed, evidence-based components, and clearly explain how it aligns with OSC microgrant goals. Strong alignment and a deep understanding of the initiative are essential.
- Evaluation (5 points max): A robust plan for measuring success is required, with well-defined and relevant outcomes. The plan should demonstrate a clear understanding of effective evaluation methods and metrics.
- Timeline and Budget (5 points max): The project must present a comprehensive and well-structured timeline, highlighting key milestones. Fund usage should be detailed and insightful. For Tier 2 or 3 applicants, the required funding amount must be precisely specified, with a strong rationale that reflects a clear understanding of project needs.
- Collaboration (5 points max): The application should identify key implementation and community partners and provide a clear, detailed account of existing collaborations, showcasing strong partnerships.
Office Hours
The following office hours are available to answer any questions regarding eligibility, timeline, program focus areas and/or the application process.
- Monday, September 16, 2024 | 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.
- Wednesday, September 18, 2024 | 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.
- Wednesday, September 18, 2024 | 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
For questions regarding the RFA, email one.second@unitedwaytarrant.org.
About OSC
Launched in December 2022, the OSC is an evidence-based approach to addressing youth violence through the unification and coordination of numerous community-based organizations that deliver outreach, education, workforce training, internships, referrals for basic needs and other support to everyday challenges young people and their families are experiencing.
United Way of Tarrant County, the Fort Worth Police Department, the City of Fort Worth, Tarrant County and countless community stakeholders have come together to make up this Collaborative. Financial support for the initiative and grants comes from American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds administered by Tarrant County and the City of Fort Worth.