Recipients:

Central Northside Neighborhood Council - $1,820

CNNC will establish a community dialogue on racism and race relations to provide neighbors an opportunity to talk about race in a safe environment that supports constructive engagement and encourages collaboration and action to address local race-based concerns.

Citizens Coal Council - $3,000

CCC addresses the environmental and social problems precipitated by the full coal cycle. The cycle includes the mining, processing, and burning of coal, in addition to the dumping of power plant waste. Their goals include halting irresponsible mining practices, strengthening the federal Abandoned Mine Lands program, monitoring power plant waste regulation, and educating the public about what they can do to stop pollution due to all phases of mining.

Clean Water Fund - $3,000

CWF’s grant will support the Neville Island webcam project, which will establish a permanent webcam so that local residents can monitor pollution from Neville Island industries and improve compliance by these plants with air pollution rules.

Dreams of Hope - $3,000

Dreams of Hope is the first lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, and allies youth performing arts group. All performance material is taken from the youth’s life experiences and are written and performed by the youth. Each show is followed by a candid question and answer period with the audience. Funding will support their fifth season, allowing them to continue their focus on performing at academic institutions as well as public venues.

Fair Housing Partnership of Greater Pittsburgh - $3,000

The mission of the Fair Housing Partnership is to create, promote, and support equal housing choice and opportunity in our community. Through fair housing enforcement and housing counseling services, FHP seeks to end housing discrimination, assist those seeking rental and homeownership opportunities, and build diverse and inclusive neighborhoods. They will use their grant money to investigate discrimination in housing with regards to sexual orientation.

Middle East Peace Forum of Pittsburgh - $3,000

The MEPF focuses on the recognition of the humanity of all peoples in the Middle East and on awareness of the possibility of peace. Events include public discussions, films, and workshops, with a particular focus on introducing change through personal experiences. Building on the success of their 2006 programs, funds would be used on event costs throughout the year.

Mountain Watershed Association - $3,000

MWA will use their grant to engage the public, raise awareness, and build enough power to bring about a change in public policy with regard to a relatively unknown component of the coal cycle, coalbed methane extraction (CBM). The frequency of this activity has recently exploded in Southwestern Pennsylvania. This project will inform the public of their rights regarding this activity, and have them speak out about it to local policy makers.

Rainbow Rising - $2,740.30

Rainbow Rising will put their grant towards marketing efforts to build community awareness of their programs for GLBT individuals and their allies in the rural counties (Fayette, Washington, and Westmoreland) of Southwestern Pennsylvania. They offer coffee houses, speakers, musicians, and other activities in safe spaces.

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