The CAR-FRESHNER Corporation Charitable Fund, administered by the Northern New York Community Foundation, supports educational initiatives that enhance opportunities within Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence Counties. The fund offers a total of $100,000 in 2025 to eligible nonprofit organizations whose projects align with educational priorities. These priorities include libraries, childcare and preschool programs, career training, vocational and technical education, and similar community-focused educational efforts. Applications are reviewed and awarded quarterly, and organizations may submit one application per year.
To qualify, nonprofit organizations must provide services accessible to the general public. Funding is restricted to specific projects or initiatives and does not cover ongoing operational costs. The fund also excludes requests for fundraising events or event sponsorships. Applicants must clearly describe the community need addressed, expected measurable outcomes, and the purpose of the requested funding. A detailed project budget and identification of other funding sources, whether secured, pending, or being pursued, are also required components of the application.
Applications must be submitted by one of four quarterly deadlines throughout 2025: January 24, April 25, July 18, and October 24. Proposals are accepted through an online application form. Each submission must include a project name, geographic area served, project dates, a description of the initiative, goals, the funding amount requested, the full project budget, and supporting documents such as media or publications.
The evaluation process prioritizes clarity in identifying community needs, the significance and potential of the proposed project, and alignment with the fund’s mission to enhance education in the region. Recipients will be notified following quarterly review periods. While grant recipients are only permitted one award per year, this structure helps ensure broad and equitable distribution of funding throughout the community.
For further assistance or questions, applicants may contact Emily Pfeil, Philanthropy Associate, via email at emily@nnycf.org. The grant management and application system is supported by Foundant Technologies. It is recommended that applicants review the guidelines thoroughly before applying to ensure eligibility and submission accuracy.
