V-Free Mini Grant Program :THE V-FREE GRANT APPLICATION DEADLINE IS SEPTEMBER 10, 2007

Our nation has been witness to unprecedented acts of violence committed by youth.  These tragic incidents are clear signals that our youth are crying out for help.  To help address these issues, the MLK Commission administers an innovative campaign called V-Free.  V-Free is a comprehensive initiative created to empower New Jersey’s youth and encourage personal responsibility while addressing the three "V’s" - violence, vandalism and victimization.  The focus of the initiative is to challenge New Jersey's schools and communities to become V-Free through youth participation and by supporting the positive efforts of existing programs and activities.

The V-Free Mini-Grant program was designed to help students develop projects and promote activities aimed at fostering positive environments in their schools and communities that are free of violence, vandalism and victimization.  Any student or youth group, with the help of a teacher or advisor, can apply for a mini-grant.  Funds range from $1,500 to $3,000 for projects taking place from October 1, 2007 through June 15, 2008. THE V-FREE GRANT APPLICATION DEADLINE IS SEPTEMBER 10, 2007   All applications must be received in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Commission office no later than 4:30 p.m. (Faxed or emailed information will NOT be accepted.)
For more information about the V-Free initiative, visit our Web Site at http://www.state.nj.us/state/njyouth/vfree/ns/mini1.html