AWS Foundation Accessible Communities Fund

The AWS Foundation Accessible Communities Fund is a special grant initiative developed through a partnership between the AWS Foundation and the Kosciusko County Community Foundation. The fund is designed to promote the creation of inclusive and accessible communities for individuals with disabilities within Kosciusko County, Indiana. Grants support charitable organizations that align with the fund’s mission and demonstrate how their project or program meets one or more of the fund’s Guiding Principles. The grant program operates on a rolling basis, with applications accepted year-round until all funds are disbursed. Eligible applicants may receive up to $5,000 per project through a competitive application process. Award decisions are generally announced four to six weeks after the application is submitted, and successful applicants must sign a grant agreement within 60 days of notification. A final impact report with documentation of expenditures is required one year after the award is issued. To apply, grant seekers must first contact the Kosciusko County Community Foundation’s Vice President of Programs, Alex Hall, to schedule a discussion about the proposed project. Only after this consultation can organizations submit an online application through the Community Foundation’s portal. Organizations applying for the first time will need to have an account created for them by foundation staff. Applicants are also required to submit an Authorization Signature Form, and those who have not applied for other funding from the foundation within the past 12 months must include additional documentation. This includes a current IRS determination letter for 501(c)(3) organizations, lists of staff and board members including their towns of residence, a recent Statement of Activities and Statement of Financial Position, and optionally the most recent IRS Form 990. Projects supported by the fund must serve residents of Kosciusko County and align with the program’s Guiding Principles. These principles emphasize self-determination, inclusion over segregation, potential over limitations, age-appropriate social inclusion, and a commitment to accessibility that goes beyond ADA compliance through Universal Design. Preference is given to projects that foster education and employment opportunities and those that involve community collaboration. The fund does not support requests from individuals, political initiatives, national organizations (unless solely benefitting local residents), fundraisers, donor-benefitting projects, religious activity, or contributions to endowments. Organizations with questions or requiring technical assistance are encouraged to contact program staff by phone or email, or visit the Foundation’s office in Warsaw, Indiana.

Applicants must contact program staff before submitting. First-time applicants must request login creation. Additional documents required if not recently funded.