Karma for Cara Foundation Microgrant

The Karma for Cara Foundation Microgrant Program is an initiative designed to empower young changemakers by providing them with small-scale funding to implement meaningful service projects in their communities across the United States. The foundation was established in memory of Cara Becker, a young woman who demonstrated a deep commitment to service before her passing. This microgrant initiative honors her legacy by supporting students aged 18 and under who are passionate about community impact. Microgrants range from $250 to $1,000 and are intended to support youth-led service efforts that go beyond simple charitable giving. Eligible projects must involve a level of hands-on involvement from student applicants, such as organizing events, transforming donated goods into new resources, or coordinating volunteer activities. The foundation emphasizes that applications which only propose the purchase and donation of items without active engagement or transformation will not be competitive. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis but are reviewed quarterly, with firm deadlines on January 1st, April 1st, July 1st, and October 1st at 11:59 PM EST. Applicants are advised to plan ahead, as proposals submitted after a deadline will be reviewed in the subsequent cycle. Notification regarding the next steps is provided within two weeks after each review deadline. Only students who are 18 years old or younger and whose projects take place within the United States are eligible to apply. Projects submitted by those over 18 or located outside the U.S. will not be considered. When applying as a group or classroom, up to three student leaders should be designated as primary contacts to facilitate streamlined communication. Applicants must also include quantitative details in their proposals, such as the number of students involved in executing the project and the estimated number of people who will benefit. These figures help the foundation assess the scope and potential impact of the project but are not the sole determining factor in funding decisions. The foundation has outlined specific cost restrictions. Funds may not be used for stipends, facility rentals, transportation, speaker or professional fees, event refreshments (with the exception of food for donation purposes), printing, promotional materials like T-shirts or flyers, gift cards, or prize money. This reflects the foundation’s focus on directing funds towards tangible, project-related needs rather than ancillary expenses. For questions or assistance during the application process, including any technical issues with submissions, applicants may contact Noemi Cruz-Cruz via email at [email protected]. The foundation encourages young applicants to be thoughtful and creative in their proposals and maintains an inclusive policy that ensures equal opportunity regardless of background or identity.

Avoid proposing projects that only involve purchasing and donating items. Emphasize active student involvement and transformation of materials.