The Greater Hermiston Community Foundation (GHCF) is a nonprofit endowment fund committed to enhancing the quality of life within its regional communities through strategic and collaborative grantmaking. Rooted in a legacy of local philanthropy, GHCF works closely with nonprofit organizations to identify and address key community needs. The Foundation's mission is to encourage, prudently manage, and distribute charitable contributions to benefit Hermiston and surrounding areas, including Stanfield, Umatilla, Irrigon, and Echo.
Each year, GHCF provides grants to support innovative and impactful projects that do not duplicate existing services. In 2024, GHCF awarded over $100,000 across 14 grants. The Foundation seeks to fund initiatives in community development, education and youth programs, health and wellness, and arts and cultural enrichment. The typical award range for selected proposals is up to $10,000. The 2025 grant cycle opens on May 1 and closes on May 20, with awards disbursed during the summer following the receipt of signed agreements.
Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations operating in the Greater Hermiston area. These may encompass civic, arts and culture, community and economic development, environmental efforts, capital projects, and both private and public schools. Ineligible entities include individuals, political or religious organizations unless their programs directly benefit the broader community, and any organization promoting discriminatory practices.
The application process requires full completion of the online grant form, inclusive of all required attachments. Incomplete applications are not reviewed. Applicants are encouraged to apply early to avoid submission issues, and no extensions are granted. The review and decision-making process is conducted by the GHCF Board of Directors and may take up to 45 days. Selected grantees must report on project milestones and deliverables and may be required to present additional evaluation data.
Applications are judged based on their potential for lasting community benefit, innovation, effectiveness, and reach. GHCF emphasizes collaborative approaches that address community challenges comprehensively. For further assistance, applicants can contact the Foundation directly. While no specific contact person is listed, inquiries can be made through the Foundation's main communication channels.
