The Powers Lake Community Foundation, a component fund of the North Dakota Community Foundation (NDCF), aims to address the lack of ongoing funding for local organizations in the Powers Lake Area. Operating as a nonprofit, tax-exempt 501(c)(3) corporation, the foundation leverages NDCF's support for audit, accounting, investment, and gift processing, allowing it to concentrate on community impact and fund growth. The core mission is to provide a reliable method for receiving donations and distributing grants that benefit critical annual projects, ensuring the sustained well-being and development of the Powers Lake region.
The grant program targets a broad range of beneficiaries within the Powers Lake area, including 501(c)(3) nonprofit tax-exempt groups and government agencies. Priority is given to projects or programs that serve a greater number of county residents, reflecting a strategic focus on widespread community benefit. The foundation aims to fund the most urgent needs of the year, with the quantity and size of grants being proportional to the available funds, ensuring resources are allocated effectively where they are most needed.
Key priorities and focus areas for funding include general needs of the region with an emphasis on equity across the county. Specific project ideas highlighted are new playgrounds, tree planting in parks, school technology needs, food pantry programs, shelter needs, county projects to improve quality of life, special needs in nursing homes or hospitals/clinics, and ambulance and fire services. Low priority is given to national organizations, operating or day-to-day expenses, and religious organizations whose activities are sectarian. Grants for individuals, multi-year pledges, and organizations involved in political campaigns or divisive activities are explicitly not funded.
The expected outcomes of the grant program include the successful implementation of projects that address critical community needs and improve the overall quality of life in the Powers Lake Area. Measurable results are tied to the impact on the number of county residents served and the tangible benefits delivered through funded projects, such as new infrastructure, improved services, and enhanced community resources. The foundation's strategic priority is to foster sustainable community development by providing flexible funding that responds to evolving local needs and empowers local organizations to achieve their goals.
