Grant Workshop held
Approximately 25 people from all different organizations attended the Grant Workshop, held on Saturday, August 26, 2023, at the Matthews and King Education Center, 115B Exchange Street, Darlington. The class was conducted by Jessica Cohen of Spark Solutions (seen here near center). PHOTO BY STEPHAN DREW
By Stephan Drew, Editor
On Saturday morning, August 26, 2023, the Matthews and King Education Center on 115B Exchange Street in Darlington became a hub of inspiration and learning as the Darlington Community Foundation and the Macedonia Life-Skills Center jointly sponsored a Grant Workshop. The event provided an educational opportunity for individuals and representatives from various sectors, featuring the expertise of Jessica Cohen, Chief Strategist & Owner of Spark Solutions Coaching & Consulting.
Cohen, a seasoned professional in grant writing, led the workshop with passion and zeal. Her message was clear from the outset: successful grant writing requires not only determination but also a deep understanding of the community you aim to serve. Cohen emphasized the importance of thorough research into the demographics of the area for which you intend to write a grant.
One of the key takeaways from the workshop was the art of choosing the right grant for your specific purpose. Cohen expertly navigated attendees through the labyrinth of grant opportunities, shedding light on how to match your objectives with the most suitable grants. Her guidance helped to demystify the complex world of grant applications, making it accessible to a diverse audience that included individuals, representatives from local churches, businesses, and various organizations.
Perhaps what made this workshop truly exceptional was Cohen’s ability to foster active class participation. Attendees didn’t just passively absorb information; they engaged in lively discussions, shared insights, and exchanged ideas. This dynamic interaction not only enriched the learning experience but also created a sense of unity and purpose within the community.
Cohen also tackled the often daunting task of mastering the intricate specifics of grant writing. She broke down the process into manageable steps, providing attendees with a roadmap to confidently tackle their grant proposals. She stressed that “Detail-oriented” does not mean “overwhelming.” Cohen reminded the audience that, By breaking the process into smaller, manageable tasks, you can write a grant that stands out and is accepted.
Thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Darlington Community Foundation, Macedonia Life-Skills Center, and the expertise of Jessica Cohen, the community now has a brighter and more hopeful future ahead.