Ann and Abe Effron Donor Advised Fund Grants

The Ann and Abe Effron Donor Advised Fund Grants are administered by the Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley, an established philanthropic organization serving communities across the region. This specific grant program draws from a percentage of the Fund's value each fall to provide support to nonprofit organizations in Dutchess County, New York. The Foundation encourages applicants to review grant criteria carefully and offers the opportunity to contact their staff with questions before submitting an application. The primary objective of the Ann and Abe Effron Donor Advised Fund is to support organizations that focus on arts, culture, and education. There is a special emphasis on projects that enhance accessibility to facilities and events for youth and senior populations. This focus reflects the funders’ commitment to fostering inclusive and enriching community experiences through targeted support of cultural and educational programming. To be eligible for funding, applicants must be tax-exempt organizations either based in Dutchess County, New York, or providing services to residents of the county. In the latter case, the organization must be able to clearly document the number of Dutchess County residents served. The program strictly excludes funding for individuals, debt reduction, political activities, special event underwriting, or general fundraising campaigns. It also does not fund schools directly, although professional development or community service programs through schools serving disadvantaged populations may be eligible. Religious organizations may apply only for non-religious programming. The maximum grant award under this opportunity is $3,000, with an average grant size of approximately $1,500. Funding cannot be used for retroactive expenses; all grant funds must be spent within one year of award. While equipment purchases are generally excluded, exceptions may be made when equipment directly supports a specific program. The submission process is fully digital through an online grants portal. Applications are due by October 15, and grant award notifications will be made in December. Each application will be assessed based on program quality, organizational capacity, budget realism, long-term impact, and overall relevance to community needs. Evaluation also includes subjective factors such as the program's timeliness and potential ripple effect in the community. For additional guidance, applicants may reach out to Cristin McPeake, Vice President of Programs at the Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley, via phone at (845) 452-3077 or email at grants@communityfoundationshv.org. All interested applicants are encouraged to submit proposals that align with the fund’s mission and demonstrate clear benefits for Dutchess County’s arts, education, and culture sectors.

Review the criteria carefully. Contact the foundation with questions before submission. Align application with impact for youth, seniors, and access to arts, culture, or education.