Improve the Quality of Life in Kansas

The Smith County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Greater Salina Community Foundation, is a regional philanthropic institution based in Smith County, Kansas. It supports charitable initiatives that enhance the quality of life within the communities it serves. The foundation manages various funds and offers grantmaking opportunities focused on community development, health, education, and other critical areas. It serves as a bridge between donors and nonprofits, fostering positive impact through financial support and community engagement. The foundation offers grant funding primarily through four funds: the Dane G. Hansen Community Grant Fund, the Health Needs for Smith County Fund, the Kansas Health Foundation Fund, and the Smith County Action Fund. These grants are offered in two annual cycles: the Fall Cycle, running from September 15 through November 15, and the Spring Cycle, from February 15 through April 15. These funds aim to support a broad range of initiatives that serve the local community, such as new programs, capacity-building, capital improvements, and, in some cases, endowment building for long-term sustainability. While the grants committee will review endowment-related requests, these are less likely to receive funding unless tied to a specific initiative. Grant funding is restricted to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, government entities, and religious organizations. Applicants that do not fall within these categories are encouraged to partner with a qualified fiscal agent. If a fiscal agent arrangement is not feasible, applicants may contact the foundation to assess project eligibility and potential reporting requirements. Geographic eligibility is primarily limited to areas within Smith County, Kansas, reflecting the foundation’s mission to serve its local community. Supported projects may include new or ongoing community services, operational support for new initiatives, organizational development such as training and technology upgrades, construction or renovation efforts, and limited support for endowment initiatives. However, the foundation does not fund political activities, projects that discriminate, operating deficits, or retroactive expenses, and it strictly requires complete and timely applications for consideration. Applications are submitted through the foundation’s grant portal, with step-by-step guidance and support resources available, including a brochure and instructional video. There are no noted pre-application requirements such as letters of intent. Proposals are evaluated based on community benefit, alignment with fund objectives, and organizational capacity. The process is competitive, and grants are awarded following the close of each cycle. Specific notification and award timelines are not detailed in the source material. For assistance or inquiries, applicants are advised to contact Aurielle Hughes, Director, at 785-686-5290. The foundation’s office is located at 110 W Kansas Ave, Smith Center, KS, with mailing address PO Box 116, Smith Center, KS 66967. The opportunity recurs biannually with defined spring and fall submission windows.