Currence Foundation ‘Move On Up Mississippi’ Opens Grant Cycle

Because of overwhelming donor support and an ongoing desire to improve access to health education initiatives in Lafayette County, Chef John Currence’s
foundation Move On Up Mississippi (MOUM) is excited to announce the opening of its second-ever grant cycle.

Move on Up Mississippi inspires and funds educational youth initiatives focused on health, well being and physical activity. It recognizes the negative impact of obesity and other ailments, drives awareness of problems and solutions, develops effective tools and programs, and supports change agents to realize a healthier future for Mississippi children, according to its website.

In 2018, MOUM contributed more than $25,000 in community funding to four local health education programs: Doors of Hope Transition Ministries, Oxford Community Market, Oxford School District, and Run Oxford. Funding decisions were made by MOUM’s eight board members: John Currence, John T. Edge, Robyn Tannehill, Mac Nichols, Kelly English, Afton Thomas, Eleanor Green, and Janae Owens.

MOUM looks forward to championing more quality programs in 2019-2020, members of the nonprofit said.

“Any Lafayette County nonprofit organization, public school, government entity, or program sponsored by a qualifying organization and working to positively impact local residents’ health is eligible to submit a proposal to the foundation’s competitive grant process on or before March 1, 2019,” said Edy Dingus, grants project manager for MOUM.

“MOUM is especially interested in applicants whose programs are intentionally inclusive, provide measurable results, and focus on area children and families. Through this cycle, the foundation hopes to continue to reach even further into Lafayette County and support organizations who feel their impact may go unnoticed in Oxford city limits.”

Application materials can be requested by emailing Dingus at grants@moveonupms.org. Complete proposals must be received by email or mail in PDF form on or postmarked by March 1. MOUM’s Board of Directors will review successfully submitted proposals and announce award winners by May 2019.

To donate or learn more about Move On Up Mississippi, please visit the website. 

Staff Report