What’s happening: The NBA Foundation recently announced a total of $12 million in grants for 31 nonprofit organizations throughout the country and For the Kingdom in Memphis’ Raleigh community is one of the fortunate few to receive financial support from the foundation. Applications for the nonprofit’s LEAD Academy initiative are currently being accepted until the deadline on Wednesday, March 29.

What it is: For the Kingdom operates a 100-acre camp, conference, and retreat center in the Raleigh community, a touch of country in the middle of the city. The organization hosts area young people to provide self-development and life skills training, career development services, and more.

What they’re saying: “We are thrilled to receive this grant from the NBA Foundation,” says Torrey Bates, Executive Director of For the Kingdom. “Preparing the youth of Memphis with skills, career readiness, and personal development that will last them a lifetime is vital. We are grateful to the NBA Foundation and the Grizzlies Foundation for their support which helps us expand our reach to serve more young people.”

Where the grant is going: The NBA Foundation has made a multi-year investment to fund the nonprofit’s Operation 38128 program. Part of that program is the LEAD Academy initiative, which empowers 16- to 19-year-olds in the Raleigh community with career opportunities by way of apprenticeship pathways in the fields of agriculture, coding, construction, cosmetology and barbering, culinary arts, entrepreneurship, hospitality, and multimedia production.

How to get involved: Area high school students are encouraged to visit For the Kingdom in person or online to learn more about program requirements and begin the application process. Applications are due on Wednesday, March 29, and the first term begins in April and runs through June.

Visit www.ftkmemphis.org to learn more.

Why it’s important: “The purpose of LEAD Academy is to bring education and experience into alignment so that it can give students access to sustainable opportunities,” says Summerjoy Scott, Leader of LEAD Academy. “Our primary focus is to develop these young people at their core internally so they can achieve success externally. We strive to enhance their abilities, prepare them for employment, and equip them with the skills to navigate life's challenges.”

For the Kingdom is located at 4100 Raleigh Millington Rd. in Memphis.