The Durham County Manager’s office recently provided an update on the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on local youth. The pandemic caused disruptions in education, increased mental health concerns, and reduced physical activity among young people in Durham County, North Carolina. These challenges were more pronounced for low-income youth, who already faced gaps in academic achievement, health, and access to enrichment programs.
To address these issues, Durham County used part of its American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund (SLFRF) to support youth programs. In July 2022, the County started the ARPA Nonprofit Grant Program. This two-year program funds nonprofit projects that respond to the effects of the pandemic. The Request for Proposals (RFP) included seven categories, with three focused on youth enrichment and development for ages 0 to 24.
Nonprofits applying for funding needed experience working with Durham County youth and had to serve local residents. RFP Category 3 supported children ages 0 to 12 facing issues such as domestic violence and substance abuse. Category 4 provided similar support for youth ages 13 to 24. Category 5 focused on educational, artistic, recreational, and sports programs for youth ages 0 to 18, with attention to underserved and disabled youth…