Effingham County’s Family Connections and Communities in Schools awarded three grants recently to local organizations. The group gives mini-grants out of funds from the United Way to eligible Effingham County organizations, to support their efforts in serving the community.

This quarter’s mini-grants went to the ECHS ninth grade Parent Initiative Program led by Cathy Zipperer. The goal of their program is to increase the graduating percentile of the graduating class of 2013 with the support of active parent involvement and commitment.

Hope Christian Concepts, led by Janet Flowers, was rewarded for its work in targeting parents, children and adolescents in identifying at-risk substance abuse behaviors. The third grant went to GLOW Ministries.

To be eligible to apply for these mini grants ($500 maximum), the organization must be a 501c3 not for profit agency. They are awarded quarterly through 2010 funds permitting. The next due date for applications is Dec. 15.