NSEF
What is the North State Equity Fund?
The North State Equity Fund (NSEF) is a collaboration between the United Way of Northern California, Building Bridges, and S.H. Cowell Foundation. We support efforts that promote racial justice, social equity, and deepen collaborations between organizations or emerging groups doing this important work in the North State. This fund is available to organizations or groups based in one or more of these nine counties: Butte, Glenn, Lassen, Modoc, Plumas, Shasta, Siskiyou, Tehama, or Trinity.
2024 NSEF Grant Cycle
In this grant cycle, NSEF anticipates distributing up to $80,000 to support positive efforts toward intercultural dialogue and equal opportunity in Northern California. We are offering grants of up to $5,000 in general operating support to address issues around racial justice or the needs of a particular racial or cultural group.
Awards for this grant cycle will be announced in December 2024. Please stay tuned for updates!
"We are excited to reopen the NSEF program this year to support new grantees. We understand how critical it is to strengthen the capacity of small nonprofits so they can continue their essential work. This year, we look forward to partnering with many organizations and supporting their vital efforts to make the North State a more equitable place for everyone."
-Melody Proebstel, Senior Director of Community Engagement at UWNC
Learn about some of last year’s grantees!
Lori McNeill & Civic Hacker Network – Making an Impact with the North State Equity Fund
Meet Lori McNeill Founder of Civic Hacker Network. This local nonprofit connects a diverse community of "civic hackers" — volunteers and professionals who use data and technology to drive positive social change. Through collaboration and resources, it works on critical issues such as education, governance, and criminal justice reform, fostering meaningful impact in the North State and beyond.
With funding from the NSEF, Civic Hacker Network launched the History and Housing case study, a project dedicated to uncovering the hidden history of a Black neighborhood that once existed in Redding. By archiving and sharing this history with the public, the study brings to light the legacy of the Black community in Redding and highlights its evolution over time.
This work not only preserves important local history but also helps to raise awareness of equity issues, empowering our community to reflect on and address systemic challenges. United Way is honored to support projects like this that uplift the North State’s diverse history and drive positive change for future generations.
Learn more about Civic Hacker Network's impactful work here.
Mele Benz & NorCal Antiracism Coalition – Advocating for Equity
Mele Benz is the Co-Founder and Board Chair of the NorCal Antiracism Coalition (NCAC).
Founded by BIPOC families in Chico, NCAC is dedicated to promoting transparency, accountability, and support for BIPOC students, families, and educators across Northern California.
With the support of the NSEF grant, NCAC has driven significant policy changes within the local school district, helping to ensure a more equitable educational environment. Additionally, the grant has allowed it to maintain its nonprofit status, enabling it to continue its critical advocacy work.
The NCAC's mission is grounded in its dedication to creating lasting change through community engagement, advocacy, and educational reform. It are isunwavering force for justice, ensuring that every student, regardless of background, has access to fair treatment and equal opportunities in education.
Learn more about NCAC and its’ work here.
Mark Oliver & Eddie McAllister – Golden Ghosts: Uncovering Hidden Histories of the California Gold Rush
We are proud to spotlight Golden Ghosts, a featured film by director and historian Mark Oliver and supported by Eddie McAllister, which shines a light on the untold stories of African Americans during the California Gold Rush. This powerful project, supported by United Way of Northern California, delves into the lives of two Black miners as they navigate the promise of the realities of a "free" California that was still shaped by slavery and racial discrimination.
Golden Ghosts is part of a larger initiative to reveal the erased histories of Black pioneers in Northern California during the 1850s. This project includes not only the film, but also a book, public museum exhibitions, and community-driven storytelling.
Through historical research and vivid storytelling, Oliver's work brings these critical narratives to life, preserving them for future generations.
Mark Oliver's meticulous research, coupled with his artistic vision, ensures that the legacy of these forgotten pioneers is not lost but celebrated.
Explore more about Golden Ghosts and join us in uncovering these incredible stories of resilience, courage, and hope. Learn More.