By Cody Mello-Klein | cmelloklein@alextimes.com

Local nonprofit ACT for Alexandria received a $500,000 grant from Citi Foundation as part of its inclusion in the Community Progress Makers initiative, according to a news release.

The Community Progress Makers initiative aims to support organizations that are working to increase equity and economic opportunity to low-income communities and communities of color. ACT for Alexandria is one of 50 nonprofits nationwide to be recognized by Citi Foundation this year.

On top of the unrestricted grant, ACT for Alexandria also gains access to technical assistance and the community surrounding the Community Progress Makers initiative until the end of 2023. Over the next year, ACT for Alexandria aims to use those resources to expand its racial equity programs, increase community power and continue to address disparities in economic success, affordable housing and education, according to the release.