Text Only Version of Neighborhood Excellence Initiative brochure

Some heroes are born. Some are made.
And some are saving communities before they can even vote.

Bank of America has deep roots in the communities we serve. And a long history of supporting the individuals and organizations who dedicate themselves to revitalizing and strengthening them. Our ongoing commitment stands on the core belief that we all want to live, work and raise our families in vibrant communities and the realization that supporting local leaders allows us to have a lasting, positive impact. Since 2004, the Neighborhood Excellence Initiative has recognized nearly 500 nonprofit organizations and 2,000 Local Heroes and Student Leaders, and committed more than $110 million to improving communities across the United States.

Neighborhood Builders®

Effective nonprofit organizations can be the critical difference between success and failure in the delivery of local services. Bank of America’s Neighborhood Builders award acknowledges these organizations’ crucial role in improving the quality of life and access to opportunity for the people they serve. The program strengthens organizations’ capacity and promotes the leadership development of their executives. Specifically, awardees receive $200,000 in core operating support over two years. In addition, during the first year of funding, the executive director and an emerging leader from each nonprofit participate in a leadership development program.

Local Heroes

They are vital voices for change and role models who move into action, making life markedly better in their neighborhoods. The Bank of America Local Heroes award honors these individuals — advocates for affordable housing, mentors working with at-risk students, volunteers helping those who are homeless — exceptional people contributing to their communities in meaningful ways. The Bank of America Charitable Foundation donates $5,000 in the Local Hero’s name to an eligible nonprofit of his or her choice and recognizes these exemplary individuals at a public ceremony celebrating their achievements.

Student Leaders®

By recognizing and cultivating Student Leaders who exhibit a passion for service, our vision of revitalizing and strengthening communities across the United States extends well into the future. Through the Bank of America Student Leaders award, high school juniors and seniors discover how they can directly influence the stability and character of their neighborhoods.
Student Leaders participate in a paid summer internship with a local nonprofit organization and engage in a Student Leadership Summit held in Washington, D.C., activities that provide students with valuable civic, business and private-sector perspectives.

To learn more or apply, visit bankofamerica.com/neighborhoodexcellence