MARSHA PONCE MEMORIAL
MICRO-GRANT PROGRAM
The Marsha Ponce Memorial Micro-Grant Program empowers members of the Selah community to create moments by providing small grants to host peer-led gatherings rooted in Jewish tradition, recovery, connection, and belonging.
Created in memory of Marsha Ponce, whose life reflected generosity, compassion, and the power of community, this program helps community members bring their own ideas to life while strengthening Selah's growing network of care and connection.
We believe that some of the most meaningful Selah experiences don't have to happen at the 14th Street Y. They can happen wherever people gather with intention, authenticity, and a desire to support one another.
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Micro-grants of $100–$250 are available to help members of the Selah community design and lead small, meaningful experiences that reflect Selah's mission: A world where Jewish spiritual tradition offers framing, sustenance, and a modality for healing for people in recovery and those who love them.
Whether you're inviting people for Shabbat dinner, organizing a learning circle, leading a nature walk, hosting a creative workshop, or creating another meaningful opportunity for connection, we'd love to support your idea.
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Anyone who has participated in four or more Selah programs is eligible to apply.
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Programs should foster connection, belonging, and healing while reflecting Selah's values. Examples include:
Shabbat dinners or holiday gatherings
Recovery-focused Jewish learning circles
Meditation, prayer, or mindfulness experiences
Writing, music, or art workshops
Nature walks, wellness gatherings, or movement-based experiences
Affinity spaces for young adults, parents, caregivers, or other shared identities
Have another idea? We'd love to hear it!
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Grants range from $100–$250 per program.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Approved expenses will be paid by Selah directly to the service provider/vendor.
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You won't be doing this alone. Every selected host will receive support from the Selah team, including:
A brief planning conversation before your program
A Selah Host Guide with ideas for welcoming participants, opening and closing rituals, trauma-informed facilitation practices, and creating an inclusive, recovery-informed Jewish space