DEARBORN- After the Department of Homeland Security awarded Dearborn’s Leaders Advancing and Helping Communities a Countering Violence Extremism (CVE) grant, the group ended up declining it Thursday night, according to a press release.

The community group sought funding for existing programs, focused on youth development, educational programming for families, and leadership and diversity education training.

However, its leadership had met many times to debate the CVE’s allegations. It also asked for the input of essential leaders working carefully in addressing the CVE’s policies, programming, and impact on communities.

Because of the present political climate, LAHC decided to decline the award.

It stated that it takes great pride in its programs and contributions to the greater community over the last 35 years.

“We strive to provide quality educational, social, and human service programs that benefit all communities, regardless of race, faith, gender, orientation, or age, in a safe and welcoming environment,” the group said in the release. “We continue to fulfill our role as patriotic citizens, maintaining open and transparent relationships with the community we proudly serve.”