YCF Community Grant

Your Community Foundation (YCF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Allen County, Kansas, and its surrounding areas. Its mission centers on building permanent endowments, supporting philanthropy, and fostering local initiatives through competitive grantmaking. YCF operates from Iola, Kansas, and has established itself as a vital community partner by supporting local governments, nonprofits, and charitable projects. The foundation offers grant opportunities designed to empower community-driven solutions in sectors such as education, health, youth development, arts and culture, and general community development. Each year, YCF conducts a competitive grant cycle during which it awards thousands of dollars to eligible organizations. The grants are intended to support projects that deliver meaningful benefits to Allen County residents. These initiatives often include programs that enhance education, provide critical health and wellness services, foster youth engagement, stimulate cultural enrichment, and respond to urgent community needs. The foundation’s goal is to provide resources that spark innovation, strengthen community capacity, and produce lasting impacts at the local level. The 2026 Community Grant Cycle will open on July 1, 2026, and close on September 1, 2026. To be eligible, applicants must be located in Allen County and fall under one of several categories: 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, units of local government (including schools, libraries, and arts agencies), educational institutions, or faith-based organizations offering secular services. Additionally, organizations operating charitable projects under a fiscal sponsor with 501(c)(3) status are eligible. Projects should primarily serve Allen County residents. While YCF does not require matching funds, preference may be given to applicants who have secured funding from other sources. All applications must include a completed application form, a project narrative detailing the purpose and amount of funding requested, audience demographics, list of project partners, project budget, IRS determination letter or equivalent documentation of tax-exempt status, a recent IRS Form 990, a list of board members with emails, the most recent audit or financial compilation (if available), and letters of support from project partners. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Submissions can be sent via mail to P.O. Box 44, Iola, KS 66749, or via email to [email protected] by the September 1, 2026, deadline. Funded organizations are required to submit a final report within 30 days of project completion. Failure to do so will make them ineligible for future funding cycles. The foundation may request additional information or progress updates during the grant period. Grant requests should not exceed $5,000, and while multiple applications may be submitted in a calendar year, resubmission of previously declined or deferred proposals within the same year is not allowed. For more information or assistance during the application process, prospective applicants can contact Elaina Stiffler, Executive Director of YCF, at (620) 418-6982 or via the email provided above. Updates and additional details may also be found on YCF's website or social media channels.

Ensure all required documents are included and submit before the deadline. Incomplete applications are automatically rejected.