African American Cemetery & Graves Fund

The African American Cemetery & Graves Fund is a funding opportunity provided by the Department of Historic Resources of the Commonwealth of Virginia. This grant is specifically aimed at the preservation and maintenance of historical African American cemeteries and graves, as defined by the Code of Virginia §10.1-2211.2. These cemeteries must have been established prior to January 1, 1948, and are dedicated to the interment of African Americans. The fund is announced at the beginning of each state fiscal year, which starts on July 1. For the fiscal year 2024–2025, the application period is closed, but interested parties are encouraged to prepare for the 2025–2026 fiscal year, which will open on July 1, 2025. Applicants should revisit the Department of Historic Resources' website at that time for updated guidelines and application information. Organizations that received funding in the previous fiscal year (2023-2024) are required to submit a Reconciliation of Requirements form. This form is a part of the Acknowledgment of Reporting Requirements document, and the disbursement of current year funds is contingent upon its receipt and acceptance. A template for completing these requirements is available online. Eligible applicants are typically organizations involved in the care and maintenance of historical African American cemeteries and graves. The grant funds are intended to support the preservation efforts, ensuring these sites are maintained and protected. The specific details regarding the acceptable spending of the grant funds are outlined in the application guidelines provided by the Department of Historic Resources. For any questions or additional assistance regarding the grant, applicants can contact Angel Williams, the AACGF Administrator, via email at aacgf@dhr.virginia.gov. The Department of Historic Resources is located at 2801 Kensington Avenue, Richmond, VA 23221, and can be reached by phone at (804) 482-6446. Their hours of operation are Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Potential applicants are encouraged to subscribe to the Department's newsletter for updates and to revisit the site for any changes in the application process or requirements. The Department of Historic Resources offers various programs and services related to archaeological collections, cemetery preservation, and community outreach, among others. These resources can be beneficial for organizations seeking to apply for the African American Cemetery & Graves Fund.

Potential applicants are encouraged to subscribe to the Department's newsletter for updates and to revisit the site for any changes in the application process or requirements.