Proper funding can make or break an organization’s impact. On Feb. 17, experts from the Center for Grants Development hosted the “All About Grants Workshop,” designed to help new and experienced grant writers expand their skill sets. The workshop focused on identifying ways to locate funding and draft proposals that accurately describe how grants are leveraged for the betterment of Harris County students and families.   

More than 30 representatives from area school districts, nonprofit organizations and government agencies attended the one-day professional development workshop, which featured several sessions, networking opportunities and prizes. Development Prospect Researcher Kristal Frazier premiered a new AI session that demonstrated how information helps artificial intelligence better understand an organization’s mission, generating more accurate and relevant content for grant proposals.  

Director Joyce Akins moderated a panel discussion to highlight how organizations are addressing the ever-changing landscape of federal funding. The inaugural panel included Avis Chambers, senior vice-president of the YMCA of Greater Houston; Lynne Cook, chief development officer for Houston Public Media; and Rhonda Horn, president of Sterling.  

The workshop is an opportunity for HCDE to empower local educators and organizations to secure resources for the individuals they serve while also increasing the Department’s impact throughout Harris County.