MacArthur Foundation
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 726-8000
www.macfound.org
The MacArthur Foundation has announced awards totaling $2 million to 18 independently produced documentary film projects, one of which puts the spotlight on youth-led advocacy.
“MacArthur’s media grant making supports work that combines exceptional storytelling with high quality journalism about under-reported but important social issues,” said MacArthur President Robert Gallucci, in a statement. “This year’s documentaries illuminate serious issues in approachable, creative, and engaging ways, including two multi-platform projects that will be interactive and encourage audiences to share their own stories.”
The foundation received nearly 500 proposals for funding in response to its most recent open invitation. Among the films chosen, issues included immigration, elder care, environmental issues, wrongful convictions, and the aftermath of genocide.
One of the projects chosen, addresses youth advocacy, empowerment and social change on an international scale. Map Your World, is an interactive web based tool for youth to affect positive change in their communities. Youth use technology to identify assets and challenges in their community, share those findings to create change locally. The project also connects youth globally who are working on the betterment of their neighborhoods.
Project awards range from $50,000- $225,000. The Map Your World project received $100,000 from the foundation.
Click here to learn more about the project.
The Foundation’s next open call for documentary film proposals will be announced in the spring of 2014.
Judith Fenlon is the money and business coordinator for The Imprint