GivingTuesday Starling Collective open for applications
Melanie May | 18 August 2021 | News
GivingTuesday’s global learning and fellowship programme The Starling Collective is once again open for applications from grassroots organisers, activists, artists, and changemakers.
Applications for the 2021 cohort will be accepted until 1 September.
The programme offers coaching, peer learning, and connection to GivingTuesday’s global leader network, as well as microgrants to jumpstart or accelerate on-the-ground work. Applicants must complete an online application describing their leadership goals and how they plan to pursue or continue work that increases generosity, with the Starling Collective especially focused on supporting grassroots leaders with creative and innovative approaches to increasing generosity, community action, and civic participation.
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The 2021 Starling Collective learning community will start on 12 October, and meet at least once per month until March 2022.
Those selected will receive a $2,000USD microgrant to support their leadership development or on-the-ground work, and will get to participate in a 6-month peer learning community. They will also gain access to coaching, peer support, along with tools and resources, and have the opportunity to present their idea or initiative for a chance to receive additional funding.
GivingTuesday launched the Starling Collective in the spring of 2020 as a response to the pandemic and the demands for social justice. Nearly 2,000 applications were submitted from 93 countries, with the 2020 Starling Cohort including 50 grassroots organisers, activists, artists, and changemakers representing 29 countries, speaking 33 languages, and ranging in age from 11 to 71. In the UK, this included Manchester’s Hephzibah Project.
Asha Curran, GivingTuesday CEO, said:
“We continue to see extraordinary leadership arising from within communities. Individuals are organising grassroots efforts, mutual aid networks, and other community care activities to meet needs and provide healing. Much of this work is taking place beyond the bounds of traditional nonprofit organisations, yet it remains critically important for a thriving and connected society.
“Too often this kind of proximate leadership is under recognised and under supported. We created the Starling Collective as a way to celebrate and support these leaders while also breaking down common barriers that leave diverse voices and nontraditional movement builders on the sidelines.”
About Melanie May
Melanie May is a journalist and copywriter specialising in writing both for and about the charity and marketing services sectors since 2001. She can be reached via thepurplepim.com.