We know resources are tight and HOPSports is dedicated to making sure you are aware of funding opportunities that will allow you to sustain and expand your programs. We recently received information regarding the Ohio 21st Century Community Learning Centers Program. This grant is not only perfect to help you obtain the HOPSports Training System (HTS) but to also garner critical staffing, technology, programs and other resources. For more information, please visit our website at www.hopsports.com or contact Michael Connors Long or Colleen Connors at (866) 762-4677. 

Amount Available Per Grant: $50,000-$200,000 per year for three years. The fourth year will be funded at 75%, and the fifth year will be funded at 50%.

Number of Awards: Unspecified (requested from program officer)

General Eligibility: Eligible applicants may be local education agencies, community-based organizations, including faith-based organizations, institutions of higher education, city or private entities serving students who are eligible to receive free or reduced lunches and are underachieving in math, reading or language arts.

Any Evaluation Limitations?: Evaluation will be conducted by the Ohio Department of Education.

How Funding Can Be Used:  Each grant may be applied to no more than three sites. Academic enrichment is the main priority of this grant with reading, literacy and mathematics intervention being the main component. However, to receive a grant under this program, applicants are expected to provide academic and/or enrichment programs beyond the required math and reading. Some suggested activities beyond math and reading include; STEM; Art, music and cultural education activities;  Entrepreneurial education programs;  Tutoring services;  Limited English Proficient (LEP) programs that emphasize language skills and academic achievement; Recreational activities; Telecommunication education programs;  Expanded library service hours; Health and nutrition programs; Programs that assist students who have been truant, suspended or expelled improve their academic achievement;  Drug and violence prevention programs, counseling programs and character education programs; and Parent and family engagement activities. If it is educational and enrichment oriented, it is most likely an approved activity.