Announcing the 2024 IDEAS Grant Recipients: Empowering Grassroots Organizations in Alignment with Ghosts of a Lost Cause
In alignment with the powerful themes explored in Ghosts of a Lost Cause, the filmmakers, in collaboration with dedicated local benefactors, are thrilled to introduce the 2024 IDEAS Grant program. This initiative, with a total of $45,000 in funding, is dedicated to supporting grassroots organizations and activists across the South who are at the forefront of advancing justice, equity, and systemic change.
The IDEAS Grant—standing for Identify, Dismantle, Empower, Advance, and Sustain—represents our shared vision to challenge historical and present-day injustices and to cultivate long-term progress in communities affected by inequality. These five principles reflect a holistic approach to transformative activism:
Identify the root causes of injustice,
Dismantle the oppressive systems and narratives—like the Lost Cause—that perpetuate inequality.
Empower marginalized voices and leaders,
Advance meaningful initiatives that create lasting change, and
Sustain the momentum of justice movements for future generations.
Through this grant, we aim to amplify and strengthen the work of local organizations that are leading efforts to build more just, inclusive communities. Each of this year’s recipients embodies the IDEAS principles by engaging in crucial work—from confronting racial and social inequities to reclaiming shared public spaces, addressing historical injustices, and creating pathways for equity in their communities:
Black Lemonade
Mission: Black Lemonade is dedicated to empowering young Black entrepreneurs with mentorship, resources, and funding. Their mission is to foster a thriving environment for Black-owned businesses and promote economic independence.
IDEAS Grant Impact: The grant will allow Black Lemonade to expand its mentorship network and introduce new business development workshops. This support will help dismantle barriers to entrepreneurship and empower future business leaders.
Collierville Community Justice
Mission: Collierville Community Justice is focused on addressing systemic inequalities and promoting justice through advocacy, education, and support services. Their work is essential in creating a more equitable society.
IDEAS Grant Impact: The funding will enhance their legal aid services and community outreach programs.
Dope Dads
Mission: Dope Dads supports fathers through mentorship, community engagement, and personal development. Their programs are designed to strengthen families and provide fathers with the tools they need to succeed.
IDEAS Grant Impact: This grant will enhance Dope Dads’ mentoring programs and introduce new workshops focused on fatherhood skills and mental health. By empowering fathers, Dope Dads contributes to building stronger communities.
Kentucky Rural Urban Exchange
Mission: Kentucky Rural Urban Exchange bridges the gap between rural and urban communities by promoting dialogue and collaboration. Their goal is to address shared challenges and foster mutual understanding.
IDEAS Grant Impact: The grant will support new collaborative projects and resource-sharing initiatives. By advancing these efforts, Kentucky Rural Urban Exchange aims to unite rural and urban areas.
Mayfield Minority Enrichment Center
Mission: The Mayfield Minority Enrichment Center focuses on enhancing the quality of life for minority communities through education, cultural programs, and advocacy. Their work aims to uplift and empower individuals through various support services.
IDEAS Grant Impact: Funding will support educational programs and cultural events that foster community pride and personal growth.
Project Say Something
Mission: Project Say Something amplifies the voices of marginalized communities and fosters dialogue on social justice issues. Their mission is to provide platforms for these communities to share their stories and advocate for change.
IDEAS Grant Impact: The grant will expand Project Say Something’s outreach and storytelling platforms. This support will empower marginalized voices and sustain conversations around social justice.
Reclaiming Our Time
Mission: Reclaiming Our Time advocate for racial and social justice as we work to eradicate poverty in order to form better communities.
IDEAS Grant Impact: Support the community free store of Marshall County. A community which generally received influx of migrants in need of basic services while facing a hostile reception in highly politicized atmosphere.
Starmade Athletics
Mission: Starmade Athletics promotes youth engagement in sports, emphasizing personal growth, teamwork, and leadership. Their programs are designed to create a positive and supportive environment for young athletes.
IDEAS Grant Impact: The funding will enhance Starmade Athletics’ sports programs and increase access for underserved youth. By advancing these opportunities, Starmade Athletics supports healthy lifestyles and confidence-building among youth.
Mission: As a nonprofit community center and Black-affirming bookshop, The Bottom stands to build community, celebrate culture, and engage the creativity of Black people in Knoxville.
IDEAS Grant Impact: The grant will support The Bottom’s community-building initiatives and expand their cultural programming. This funding will enhance their capacity to host events, workshops, and activities that foster cultural expression and strengthen community connections.
Your Foot My Foot
Mission:
IDEAS Grant Impact: The grant will enhance Your Foot My Foot’s ability to distribute footwear and related support services. This funding will allow them to expand their outreach, increase the number of beneficiaries served, and strengthen their community engagement efforts.
