Advocacy Grant Program

The Fairview Trust, operating under the Oregon Community Foundation, is dedicated to increasing integrated and affordable housing options for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in Oregon. Rooted in a mission of inclusivity and systemic change, the Trust has set an ambitious goal to support the creation of 250 new units of integrated, affordable housing for the IDD community by the year 2030. At least a quarter of these units will be located in rural or underserved regions, reflecting a commitment to equitable geographic distribution of resources. In the 2025 grant cycle, the Trust’s funding efforts are concentrated on two key advocacy priorities. The first priority aims to strengthen the capacity of self-advocates—individuals with IDD who advocate for themselves—to participate effectively in housing policy advocacy. These self-advocates are regarded as essential voices in shaping housing policy that accurately reflects the lived experiences of the IDD community. Eligible activities for this focus area include leadership development workshops, peer networking opportunities, collaborative resource development, and self-led policymaker education initiatives. Funding proposals that demonstrate strong partnerships with established advocacy or housing organizations, and a history of empowering self-advocates, are particularly encouraged. The second priority emphasizes policy advocacy targeted at eliminating systemic barriers to integrated and affordable housing for individuals with IDD. Organizations seeking funding in this area are expected to work towards increasing policymaker understanding of IDD housing needs, contribute to policy development using existing state funding mechanisms, and promote a favorable policy environment through coalition-building, public awareness, and collaborative initiatives. Strategies may include offering technical support to lawmakers, organizing self-advocate training sessions, and participating in statewide housing advocacy coalitions. Eligible applicants are established nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status. Proposals must align with the Fairview Trust’s vision of inclusive and community-based housing for individuals with IDD. The grant program does not fund projects that advocate for segregated living arrangements. Grants of up to $200,000 may be awarded over a two-year period. Proposals that demonstrate statewide impact, involve inclusive leadership, or build strong partnerships with developmental disability service providers, case managers, or advocacy groups will be viewed favorably during evaluation. Applicants must submit a completed application form, along with several required attachments: a detailed project budget (using the Trust’s spreadsheet format), a list and bios of current board members, the most recent audited financial statements, and proof of IRS nonprofit status. Applications are reviewed by the Fairview Trust Advisory Board using both qualitative and quantitative scoring metrics, with final funding decisions made by the Oregon Community Foundation’s Board. The application deadline for the 2025 cycle is August 1, 2025. Although there is no pre-application or letter of intent deadline listed, applicants are encouraged to prepare submissions early and ensure completeness. Questions about the application process can be directed via email to fairview@droregon.org.

Proposals showing strong collaboration, self-advocate involvement, and potential for statewide impact are preferred.