“One interesting takeaway was that no one in the room was aware of any local groups actively working on fossil fuel or gas issues. I asked, ‘How many care about the environment and want lower electric bills?’ All raised their hands. Then I asked, ‘How many of you know the people or groups who do something about it?’ No hands. This screening helped audiences finally learn about and plug into local work.”
Screenings That Work is a mini grant program designed to support organizers and activists across the U.S. who are using film screenings as a tool for environmental justice.
Suzanne Sapp, Sierra Club Florida
Screenings That Work is a mini grant program designed to support organizers and activists across the U.S. who are using film screenings as a tool for environmental justice.
In a moment of digital overload, coming together IRL has become one of the most effective ways to build relationships, spark dialogue, and inspire action. Film events can play a critical role, whether responding to a dangerous bill, a proposed pipeline, or a new data center, by raising awareness and inspiring action.
Through Screenings That Work, Working Films is offering grants of up to $500 (most often in the $300–$350 range) to help cover hard costs associated with hosting a screening. Eligible expenses include venue rentals, screening rights, screening equipment, marketing materials, food, and guest speakers. Our goal is to remove financial barriers so organizers can focus on creating meaningful, action-oriented gatherings for their communities.
In addition to these resources, Working Films’ expert team will guide you through the steps of creating an event that will be a transformative experience for attendees and connect them with opportunities for sustained action.
We invite organizers and activists based in the US and territories, who need that final support to bring a screening to life, to fill out the application form. Requests exceeding $500 cannot be considered at this time.
Working Films staff will review each application assessing it based on the following criteria:
- Is this group and their proposed event aligned with values of social and environmental justice?
- Do they have a specific audience in mind? What is the potential to go beyond the choir? Is this audience directly impacted by these issues?
- What is the potential for meaningful opportunities for the audience to take action and/or become involved?
Screenings That Work accepts applications on an ongoing basis. Apply today!
FAQ’s
1. Is this an opportunity for a filmmaker or media maker? Is this an opportunity to make a film? Is a film going to be made?
No. Screenings That Work is a program designed to resource community organizers and help them use screenings of existing films in their advocacy and community building efforts. Selected applicants will our methodology for hosting effective screening events from finding the right film, to how to hold an engaging discussion with audiences, to taking action after a screening, etc.
2. What can the resources be used for?
These resources can be used to cover hard costs associated with your event. Examples include funding for venue rentals, screening rights, screening equipment, food, marketing materials, and guest speakers.
3. Do y’all have a preselected library of films we are supposed to use?
We don’t have a preselected library of films. The chosen films are up to each individual/organization since you know what could make the most impact in your community. We of course can help suggest films based on your organizing goals.
4. I’ve never used film in my work before, can I still apply?
Absolutely! You don’t need prior experience using film as an organizing or advocacy tool to apply. We believe film is an underutilized tool for building power, bringing people together, and advancing campaigns, and we’re excited to support more organizations in putting it to work.
5. I have more questions! What can I do?
If you have any more questions, please reach out to Andy Myers, Director of Campaigns and Strategy, at [email protected], and Mara Henderson, Impact and Organizing Lead, at [email protected].
APPLY FOR THE SCREENINGS THAT WORK MINI GRANT