An unusual philanthropy class project at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is seeking proposals from area nonprofits for projects to help empower people in need.

The Strive to Thrive Lincoln project, part of a senior-level management course, will give grants ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 to one or more philanthropic projects that meet criteria chosen by students. The deadline for applications is 5 p.m. Feb. 23, with awards to be announced at a public reception on April 18.

This semester, the Leading People and Projects (Management 411) class specifically seeks to grant funds to organizations that empower people in need through education, awareness and enrichment in Lincoln and/or Lancaster County, with special consideration given to those serving traditional and nontraditional families.

The class provides a funding opportunity that allows organizations to make a positive difference in the Lincoln community, while students gain knowledge of philanthropy by working with nonprofit organizations. Taught by Amber Messersmith, the class learns how to initiate a funding process, create a grant application, evaluate applications and make decisions on providing grants for community betterment.

A recent gift from Nebraska philanthropist Rhonda Seacrest enabled the College of Business to offer the course twice a year. The Learning by Giving Foundation, which funded the course since the philanthropy project began more than five years ago, will continue to provide partial funding through fall 2020.

“Our Nebraska Business community is grateful to Rhonda Seacrest for the generous gift which will enable the Strive to Thrive Lincoln program to continue and the community to benefit,” said Kathy Farrell, James Jr. and Susan Stuart Endowed Dean. “This course is integral in our curriculum as it teaches our students the role of nonprofits in a community and the importance of giving back, and the number of students taking this course continues to grow.”

To apply, organizations must have 501(c)3 status and propose a project consistent with the organization’s mission and within the mission of Strive to Thrive Lincoln. Within the application, organizations must provide their most recent Form 990 and IRS letter; submit a spreadsheet outlining their organizational and project budgets; give brief descriptions of their organization and its relevant achievements; and outline the proposed project along with how it aligns with their mission and goals.

Learn more about Strive to Thrive Lincoln.