The Community Foundation of North Florida (CFNF) is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2024 Knight Foundation Fund grants, awarded to six local organizations to support initiatives that foster creativity, community development, and social cohesion in our community. These grants total $207,391 and aim to enhance the cultural and economic landscape of our community.

The James L. Knight Foundation annually supports the Tallahassee community through its endowed fund at CFNF, with a goal to have an impact in revitalizing the downtown and bordering communities, attract and retain talented people, and promote economic opportunity through projects in smart design, the arts, and entrepreneurship.

The 2024 Knight Foundation Fund grant recipients are as follows:

  • Council on Cultural Arts (COCA) – $50,000: In partnership with the Tallahassee Community Redevelopment Agency, this grant will support the creation of custom murals on commercial properties, including nonprofits and small businesses, in Greater Frenchtown, the Southside, and Downtown Tallahassee. The initiative seeks to beautify these areas while showcasing local artistic talent.

 

  • Greater Apalachee Ridge Estates – $40,000: This grant will foster economic development in the Greater Apalachee Ridge Estates community by integrating technology education and e-commerce through asset-based community development methods.  The project is designed to empower residents with the tools and skills to thrive in a digital economy.

 

  • Knight Creative Communities Institute (KCCI) – $40,000: Supporting the development of a bicentennial park at City Hall, this project will enhance Tallahassee’s public spaces and serve as a lasting symbol of the city’s rich history and commitment to community engagement.  

 

  • North Florida Community Development Corporation – $15,000: This grant will support outreach programs, including jazz appreciation sessions, and workshops tailored to underserved communities, fostering cultural appreciation and collaboration with local musicians.

 

  • South City Foundation – $35,000: The South City Foundation will use this grant to expand its work through the recruitment of additional Block Champions, the establishment of a leadership program, and neighborhood events designed to strengthen social cohesion and community leadership in South City.  Block Champions are South City residents that take a pivotal leadership role in driving effective civic engagement and working collaboratively to address community issues.

 

  • The Village Square – $27,391: Funding will be used to revive “Local Color,” a diverse network of citizens committed to building a more unified Tallahassee. This initiative seeks to bridge racial and political divides, encouraging meaningful dialogue and collaboration among residents.

 

For more information on the Knight Foundation Fund or to learn more about these and other initiatives supported by CFNF, visit www.cfnf.org or contact Katrina Rolle at 850-222-2899 or krolle@cfnf.org.