A smiling father and daughter

The Meck Effect

Spending dollars, getting back change

Logo featuring the words The Meck Effect on the left and an outline of Mecklenburg County with a star in the middle on the right.

What is The Meck Effect?

In 2021, as Mecklenburg County faced a number of challenges in the aftermath of the COVID-19 virus, the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) provided over $215 million in recovery funds to aid a strong and equitable recovery. In response, the Mecklenburg County COVID-19 Strategic Recovery Plan and Application Process was developed.

By distributing ARPA dollars to local organizations with a mission to help, heal and train our underserved neighbors, Mecklenburg County is a catalyst for change. Every cent granted to small businesses and nonprofits magnifies and multiplies — helping so many and touching us all — while growing and spreading exponentially from street to block to neighborhood and town.

This expanding impact demonstrates how one positive action can multiply, transforming communities and creating a powerful force for good. This impact is #TheMeckEffect.

Recipient Spotlight

  • Veterans Bridge Home

    An African American male wearing a U.S. Navy hat sitting on a porch

    Veterans Bridge Home received funding to address housing needs for veterans and their families impacted by the COVID-19 crisis.

  • She Built This City

    An African American woman wearing a green hard hat performing construction work

    She Built This City received funding to expand its workforce development program, Women in the Trades Pre-Apprenticeship Training and Repair Crew Apprenticeship.

  • Cherry Community Organization

    A smiling African American woman from the Cheery Community

    The Cherry Community Organization received funding to replace all lead pipes with non-lead-based materials in homes built between 1910 and 1931, allowing longtime residents to remain in their homes safely.

  • Cakeable

    A woman baking

    Cakeable received funding to increase its vocational readiness program for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

  • Angels and Sparrows

    A smiling woman sitting in a classroom with her arm on a stack of books

    Angels & Sparrows received funding to expand their educational programming (Pathway Program) for families and youth to improve their futures.

Recipients by Category

Tools and Resources

  • ARPA Dashboard

    View up-to-date info on ARPA spending and #TheMeckEffect.

  • Media Toolkit

    View and download helpful resource guides about media relations, social media, and websites and blogs.

  • Stay Connected

    Sign up for the County newsletter to receive the latest ARPA news.

  • Volunteer

    Interested in working with an organization making an impact? Take a look at our recipient list to get connected.

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