APME seeking applications for Community Journalism Public Service Initiative

As it continues to show support for the work of small news organizations, the Associated Press Media Editors announces the second year of its Community Journalism Public Service Initiative.

Media companies in metropolitan areas (MSA) of 100,000 or fewer people are encouraged to apply for the grant. The recipient will receive $1,000 to jump-start the initiative and a trip to the annual APME conference to present the project.

It's easy to enter: Just draft a proposal of 500 words or less and include examples of how you would approach the project. It should be multiplatform, include social media and address a long-standing community issue.

Last year's winner was the Beaver Dam News of Beaver Dam, Wis. , won the grant with its series on mental illness in its community. Staff members Trena And Trista Pruitt presented their work on the project at the APME conference in Nashville.

This year's winner will have the opportunity to present at the conference Oct. in Indianapolis.

To apply, go to http://www.tfaforms.com/232227 and fill out the online form. The deadline for applications is March 15. The grant will be awarded in April.

Read more about the initiative.