Erie County Community Foundation Community Grants

The **Erie County Community Foundation** in Ohio is inviting nonprofit organizations to apply for grants designed to enrich the lives of Erie County residents. Through this opportunity, the Foundation seeks to address pressing community needs, promote leadership, and cultivate lasting resources that strengthen the social and economic fabric of the region. The overarching vision is to foster a vibrant Erie County where every resident has the opportunity to thrive, access vital resources, and contribute to a flourishing community. While the Foundation has core funding priorities, it remains open to supporting impactful projects in diverse areas such as **arts and humanities, education, environment, community development, health and social services, and youth services**. The Foundation envisions a county where barriers to meaningful employment are removed, residents can seek physical and mental health treatment without stigma, children have ample opportunities for recreation and artistic expression, and nonprofits collaborate creatively to tackle local challenges. Priority will be given to initiatives that directly address key local issues. These include improving transportation access, expanding workforce training, and creating new employment opportunities. Other priorities encompass improving access to quality childcare, broadening mental health and substance abuse treatment options, and building a community culture free from stigma. Projects that promote children’s education, health, and creativity, protect Lake Erie’s long-term vitality, and ensure access to nutritious food are also encouraged. Efforts to support seniors, enhance neighborhood safety, and address poverty through housing, hunger, and case management services align closely with the Foundation’s goals. Organizations may request up to **$10,000**, with capital requests exceeding $5,000 requiring prior consultation with Foundation staff. The Foundation generally does not fund advertising, annual campaigns, debt reduction, political activities, or sectarian purposes. However, it may support educational or health-related needs for individuals through specific Field of Interest Funds, provided the grants are distributed through qualifying nonprofit entities. Eligibility is limited to **501(c)(3) organizations**, as well as churches, schools, universities, and government entities with proper IRS exemption documentation. All funded projects must primarily serve **Erie County, Ohio** residents. Through this grant program, the Erie County Community Foundation continues its mission to build a healthier, more inclusive, and resilient community where opportunity and well-being are shared by all.