NPS Students Benefit from Norwalk Non-Profit Mini-Grant Awardees

Congratulations to the City of Norwalk’s recently announced 2025 Mini-Grant Program awardees including three non-profit organizations whose grant funds will directly benefit students in Norwalk Public Schools.

The city awarded 18 non-profit organizations with funding totaling $146,194.50. The Brien McMahon Band Parents Association and the Norwalk Education Foundation each received a $10,000 grant and NICE (Norwalk International Cultural Exchange) received a $7,500 grant. Each organization will use their grant funds for the following purposes:

• Brien McMahon Band Parents Association - purchase new band uniforms, props and gear that can limit participation and performance quality; will support low-income students who cannot afford the associated costs of participating
• NICE: Norwalk International Cultural Exchange - providing cultural heritage education enrichment programs in Norwalk Public Schools and community wide programs
• Norwalk Education Foundation - increase extra reading tutoring for third graders and organizing and delivering books for the Reading Buddies to use with students

The Mini-Grant Program was designed to strengthen Norwalk's smaller, community-rooted 501(c)(3) nonprofits that provide direct services to Norwalk residents and have an annual operating budget of $1 million or less. This investment ensures that smaller nonprofits are supported in delivering high-impact, culturally competent services where they're needed most.

Grants were awarded across three major focus areas:

• Health – Programs addressing maternal health, youth mental wellness, and disability inclusion.
• Education – Programs addressing school readiness, literacy tutoring, cultural enrichment, and access to the arts.
• Safety Net – Programs addressing reentry support, family strengthening, and mentorship for underserved youth.

Selected initiatives include:

• A maternal health awareness campaign for underserved mothers.
• Music and art programs for youth in Norwalk Public Schools.
• A reentry program supporting returning citizens.
• Culturally responsive education enrichment programs.
• Support groups for youth mental wellness and family bonding.

Evaluation criteria included the organization's service to Norwalk residents, impact, feasibility, equity, and organizational capacity. Independent community partners conducted the review and scoring process, and funding amounts were awarded based on scoring and the available budget.

Story from the City of Norwalk