GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Grand Rapids SAFE Task Force is inviting residents and organizations to submit violence-reduction proposals for Pitch and Highlight Night on Wednesday, Oct. 28, when five winners can receive up to $10,000 each.
Presentations run from 6 to 9 p.m. at MLK Park Community Center, 900 Fuller Ave. SE. Selected applicants get five minutes to explain how their idea reduces violence or gun violence, creates pro-social opportunities, or addresses youth mental health.
Proposals are due by 5 p.m. Oct. 23 through the city online application. Projects must target youth ages 15 to 24, take place between March and September 2027, and align with SAFE Task Force, police strategic plan, or city strategic plan goals.
Latesha Lipscomb, civilian violence prevention and intervention manager in the Office of Oversight and Public Accountability, said lasting solutions come from people who live and work in neighborhoods and that Pitch Night lets residents shape safety in Grand Rapids.
Nonprofits and individuals can apply, and funded winners will partner with the city to launch their projects across Grand Rapids.
