When a wheelchair ramp becomes a gateway to hope, community, and independence, you know the power of a grant has truly been realized. On this inspiring episode of GrantTalk, Libby Hikind, CEO and founder of GrantWatch.com, sits down with Melanie Reeves, Executive Director of RiverLife, a nonprofit bringing critical home repairs, disaster relief, and volunteer services to underserved communities across Georgia.
RiverLife: From Local Ministry to Statewide Impact
Melanie shares how RiverLife began as a ministry effort with her husband and transformed into a full-fledged nonprofit committed to building stronger communities. Whether it’s yard cleanup for veterans, disaster relief, or home repairs for seniors, RiverLife mobilizes volunteers to serve often overlooked and isolated individuals.
Back in 2021, an EF4 tornado devastated their area, and RiverLife stepped in to help families recover, some of whom are still rebuilding today. Their work proves that disaster relief doesn’t stop after the headlines fade.
One Ramp, One Life, One RiverLife Community Reconnected
Melanie goes on to share how one well-timed grant changed lives and brought her community together. With $4,500 in funding from the George A. Ramlo Foundation, discovered through GrantWatch, RiverLife was able to build five wheelchair ramps for individuals in urgent need.
One of those ramps helped an 83-year-old woman living with dementia and limited mobility. After being confined to her home for months, Ms. Mary was finally able to attend church again. The ability to leave her home safely allowed this parishioner to once again attend the church she’s been a part of for 50 years. The ramp is a symbol of freedom, connection, and dignity.
These ramps aren’t just structures—they’re lifelines.
Why GrantWatch Makes a Difference
RiverLife found GrantWatch in 2024 while searching for a better way to locate funding. For just $199 a year, the platform provides immediate access to a wide range of grants that align with their mission. Within months of subscribing, the folks at RiverLife were awarded their first major grant.
Melanie attributes their success not only to finding the right grant but to ensuring the proposal aligned with the funder’s goals. She collaborated with board member Lorraine Burt, an experienced grant writer, and together with their office manager, they built a compelling case for funding.
Grant Writing as a Team Effort
Libby and Melanie both agree: necessity often drives innovation. Just as Libby started grant writing as a teacher needing computer access for her students, Melanie began writing grants because her community had unmet needs. RiverLife is now building internal capacity by training new grant writers on their team—an essential step for sustainability and growth.
Start Your Grant Journey Today
Whether you’re new to grant writing or a seasoned nonprofit leader, GrantWatch.com is your trusted platform for finding grants that match your mission. Subscribe today and discover thousands of funding opportunities across all sectors.
🔗Ramlose Foundation Grant via GrantWatch:
- GrantWatch ID: #214675
- Deadline: August 31, 2025
The Ramlose Foundation Grant offers up to $6,000 to nonprofits in Georgia and other New England states for human services, special needs, and community impact.
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Connect with RiverLife
- 📬 Melanie Reeves: mreeves@livetheriverlife
- 🌐 RiverLife
- 📲Facebook: @livetheriverlife
- 📸Instagram: @livetheriverlife
Interested in connecting with RiverLife? Comment “RiverLife” below and we’ll help make the connection!
About GrantWatch
With over 9,700 grants currently available, GrantWatch.com is the leading grant listing directory. Upgrade to a MemberPlus+ subscription to view the full grant details, including eligibility criteria and application information. For more information, you can also visit the GrantWatch FAQ page. To see the great value of all 20 of the top GrantWatch features, click here. Watch the latest episode of GrantTalk, powered by GrantWatch, with host Libby Hikind. You don’t want to miss this. Visit us on YouTube weekly. Get your copy of The Queen of Grants: From Teacher to Grant Writer to CEO, by Libby Hikind.
