The application period for Alabama Power Foundation’s 2016-2017 Elevate grants begins today. Nonprofits across the state are encouraged to apply.

Elevate grants empower nonprofits by funding community-centered projects, capacity-building workshops and networking opportunities.

The Elevate program began in 2014. Since then, 27 nonprofits across the state have received Elevate grants to strengthen their organizations.

The Elevate packages include a $10,000 grant in 2016 and a $5,000 challenge grant in 2017 for each winner. Grant winners will participate in workshops through 2017 to help them grow and find ways to expand their positive impact.

“One of the Elevate program’s greatest strengths is that it gives grantees more than just a check,” said Myla Calhoun, the newly elected president of the Alabama Power Foundation. “Past grantees have said time and time again just how beneficial it is for them to network with one another through this program’s workshops. Every year, our Elevate grantees build partnerships as a result of their time spent together. We are honored to be a part of that.”

Calhoun joined Alabama Power in March as vice president of Charitable Giving. She served previously as general counsel and senior vice president for Regional Development and Public Policy at the Birmingham Business Alliance. She became president of the Alabama Power Foundation effective today.

Elevate is one of several grant programs funded by the foundation. To access the online application and to learn more about Elevate, as well as other Alabama Power Foundation and Alabama Power community programs, please visit www.powerofgood.com.

Since its creation in 1989 with funds donated by shareholders, the Alabama Power Foundation has supported Alabama communities, educational institutions and nonprofits with nonratepayer dollars through more than 20,000 grant and scholarship awards.