The Rays of Hope Fund is a community-focused grant program managed by the South Windsor Community Foundation, Inc., aimed at enhancing the quality of life in South Windsor, Connecticut. The fund annually supports charitable projects and programs in the areas of social services, arts, recreation, and other community enrichment activities. It is fueled by contributions from local individuals and businesses and has distributed over $162,000 to eligible civic and nonprofit organizations.
Eligible applicants include local organizations serving the South Windsor community with projects that offer direct benefits to residents. While a separate fund is designated for education-specific projects (the South Windsor Public Education Fund), the Rays of Hope Fund concentrates on a wide array of non-educational initiatives. Past grant recipients have included groups supporting senior engagement, special needs programming, community arts and writing, youth sports, historical preservation, and inclusive community events.
There is no specified maximum award amount, and grants vary depending on project needs and fund availability. Applications are currently open and are reviewed on a rolling basis. To be eligible, applicants must submit a completed application form and a supporting package that includes a detailed project budget, explanation of the project's charitable nature, the organization’s operating budget or financial statements, list of board members or officers, mission statement, and a plan for fund use should the project default.
Submissions may be sent via email to info@swfoundation.org or by mail to P.O. Box 1341, South Windsor, CT 06074. The Foundation may conduct periodic program and expenditure reviews and reserves the right to visit recipient programs before or after the award to monitor outcomes.
Applications require signatures from an authorized organizational representative and a fiscal agent who affirms compliance with applicable laws and South Windsor Community Foundation policies. Approval of funding is made by the Foundation’s executive board and is subject to the completeness and merits of the proposal in fulfilling community benefit objectives.
Ensure projects are clearly tied to community benefit and include complete financial and organizational documentation. Inclusion of clear outcomes and prior engagement with the community likely strengthens the application.
