Across the South, grassroots organizers work every day to protect their communities, whether it is fighting deportations, pushing back against police violence, or organizing against harmful policies. These groups are led by the people most directly impacted, people who see what is happening on the ground and take action. But despite their deep commitment and strategic work, they have the least access to funding. Too often these local leaders are forced to cover urgent needs out of their own pockets while moving from one attack to the next.
In today’s political climate, the need for urgent action is growing daily. For this reason, SVA is working with partners to launch the Southern Block and Build Rapid Response Fund in April 2025. We are trying to raise and regrant $200,000 this year. If you or your organization are in a position to support this effort please reach out to us at Power@Southernvision.org.
If you have ever been part of local organizing, you know what it is like to pass the hat, buy coffee for early morning meetings, print fliers out of your wallet for the next neighborhood gathering, or pick up last minute supplies. That is the reality for so many grassroots groups protecting their communities and constantly stretched thin. This fund provides flexible and time-sensitive grants from $500 to $3000 to grassroots groups.
Groups like Comité de Accion Popular are on the frontlines of deportation defense, working around the clock to keep families together. Refund Raleigh is organizing neighborhoods to create alternatives to policing, helping build local safety networks that do not rely on law enforcement and instead center care and mutual support. These organizations, and so many others, are doing essential work to protect their communities while also laying the groundwork for long term solutions.
Grassroots organizations are responding to ongoing and escalating threats against our communities every day, but they cannot do this alone. They need support and they need it now. SVA has seeded this fund with $40,000 and just got our first match. Please help us get to $200,000 to get these critical resources into the hands of movement leaders who are protecting and defending their people. Every dollar makes a difference in sustaining this work. If you or your foundation are interested in partnering, reach out to Power@Southernvision.org.
