The Community Foundation offers annual community grants through a partnership with nonprofit organizations. These grants are intended to support local initiatives and projects that align with the foundation’s goals of community improvement and empowerment. Applications are reviewed and evaluated by a volunteer committee that makes funding recommendations to the foundation’s Board of Directors. The decision to fund a project rests with this Board after thorough evaluation of submitted materials.
Organizations interested in applying must first submit a Letter of Intent (LOI), which is accepted on a rolling basis. Upon receiving an LOI, the foundation’s staff will reach out to the applicant to discuss goals and assess fit. If the project aligns with the foundation’s objectives, the LOI will be approved and the organization will be invited to submit a full grant application. Approved applicants are given two weeks to complete and return the application.
Although both LOIs and applications are accepted on a rolling basis, there are suggested submission timelines to help applicants receive funding decisions aligned with their project planning. To receive a funding decision by February 2025, LOIs should be submitted by December 13, 2024. For a decision by May 2025, LOIs should be submitted by March 14, 2025. For August 2025 decisions, submit by June 13, 2025, and for November 2025, submit by September 12, 2025.
It is important to note that staff approval of an LOI or the request for a full application does not guarantee funding. Every application must go through the official review process and receive final approval from the Board of Directors. This process ensures that only the most aligned and impactful proposals receive support.
The grant process is designed to be accessible and supportive, providing guidance and communication throughout to ensure organizations understand expectations and requirements. Organizations are encouraged to initiate contact early, especially if aiming for a specific funding decision timeline.
Specific contact information and application forms are not provided in the available information. For more detailed inquiries or to begin the application process, interested organizations should reach out directly to The Community Foundation through their official communication channels.
