Grant Request The Overlook Initiative
Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form
Organization Name: The Overlook Initiative
Legal Name (if Different): Donnielle Kirkland
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 8735 Dunwoody Place, 10420
City: Atlanta
State: GA
Postal Code: 30350
Main Phone: 2672515402
Main Fax:
Organization Website: theoverlookinitiative.org
Employer ID Number: 39-4215076
Organization Tax Status: Current
Proposal Information
Today’s Date: 3/19/2026
Requested Amount: 8,500
Project Title: Overlook Nothing: Community Education & Mentorship Program
Project Description:
The Overlook Nothing Community Outreach Program is an initiative designed to expand awareness about human trafficking while addressing the broader life challenges that can impact boys and men. Led by The Overlook Initiative, this program focuses on meeting communities where they already gather, creating accessible spaces for education, conversation, and mentorship.
While public awareness efforts often focus on women and girls, boys and men impacted by trafficking frequently remain overlooked in prevention efforts and community discussions. This program seeks to expand understanding by bringing trafficking awareness into trusted community spaces such as schools, community centers, and barbershops.
Through this initiative, The Overlook Initiative will host a series of community education sessions and mentorship circles across the Atlanta area. Educational workshops will provide students, educators, and community members with information about human trafficking, recruitment tactics, online safety, and how to recognize warning signs and seek help.
In addition, the program will facilitate mentorship conversations for boys and young men in community settings such as barbershops and youth spaces. Barbershops have long served as important gathering places where honest conversations about life, identity, and community take place. These circles will create safe spaces for young men to talk about challenges, build confidence, and connect with mentors who can provide guidance and support.
The program will also include a community awareness campaign, distributing educational materials and sharing digital storytelling content through social media to expand awareness beyond in-person events.
Through these efforts, the program aims to engage approximately 300 youth and community members, strengthen awareness about trafficking risks, and encourage conversations that support prevention and community care.
Total Project Budget: 12,500
Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Sources : The Overlook Initiative – Organizational leadership, program coordination, volunteer recruitment, and development of educational materials. Community Volunteers – Individuals assisting with outreach, event setup, and distribution of educational materials. Social Media Platforms – In-kind digital space used to share educational content, expand awareness, and promote community conversations. Potential Sources Local Schools and Youth Organizations – Potential partners to host educational workshops and student awareness sessions. Community Centers and Libraries in Atlanta – Potential spaces for community education events and outreach activities. Local Barbershops and Community Gathering Spaces – Trusted community locations where mentorship circles and conversations with boys and young men can take place. Local Businesses and Restaurants – Potential partners for community fundraising nights and awareness events. Community Foundations and Small Grants – Potential funding support from organizations that support education, youth programs, and trafficking awareness initiatives.
Project Duration: 10-12 months
Geographical Area Served: Atlanta Metro Area
Age Group To Be Served: 14-21
Contact Information
Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Dr.
Contact First Name: donnielle
Contact Last Name: kirkland
Contact Title: Executive Director / Founder
Contact Phone: 2672515402
Contact Email: donn@theoverlookinitiative.org