How Knight Foundation Funds Community Projects and Journalism

Knight Foundation is a national foundation that invests in communities to help people shape thriving neighborhoods. They focus on three main areas: strengthening information and journalism, expanding economic opportunities, and supporting arts and culture. The foundation works in 26 cities where the Knight family once owned newspapers. Most of their grants come through partnerships and research rather than open applications. When they do have open calls, they post details on their website. They look for projects that align with their goals, have clear outcomes, and can make a real impact in communities. Knight Foundation cannot fund political campaigns or lobbying, but they support many other types of community work. They also run special programs like Press Forward to help local news and the Knight Cities Challenge that gives $5 million for creative community projects. The foundation believes that access to good information, economic opportunity, and strong cultural connections are essential for healthy communities.

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The Bigger WeStories of Community Builders Who Weave Neighbors TogetherThis article shares inspiring stories of three community builders from Phoenixville, PA who found ways to connect neighbors and strengthen their town. Maddie Goodwin started PXV Gives after the Women's March to help people find volunteer opportunities with local nonprofits. Julie Miller, an English teacher for immigrants, created a Spanish library and builds bridges between immigrant families and the community. Teresa Haag paints murals that bring beauty to the town and create spaces for neighbors to share stories. These 'weavers' show how regular people can make their communities stronger by building relationships and helping others get involved. Their work demonstrates that lasting change happens when neighbors know and care for each other. The stories are part of a series celebrating everyday people who create positive change in their communities through small but meaningful actions.

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