The Jewell Schweitzer Quality of Life Grant Program, administered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks (CFO), supports innovative, collaborative efforts to address key community issues in Springfield-Greene County, Missouri. This program prioritizes projects that align with the “Red Flag” issues identified in the most recent Community Focus Report, an ongoing assessment of the region’s challenges and opportunities across a range of sectors.
A total of $120,000 is available in the current funding cycle, with individual grant awards capped at $30,000. Applications are open to nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status, governmental entities, public school districts, and tax-exempt faith-based organizations operating in or serving Springfield-Greene County. While matching funds from the CFO are not required, applicants are encouraged to demonstrate leveraged or in-kind contributions, as this is a valued aspect of the selection process.
The CFO is particularly supportive of innovative and risk-tolerant proposals that demonstrate a commitment to positive change. Projects that involve collaboration across multiple agencies or community sectors are strongly encouraged, though not required. Applicants are asked to describe the primary goals of their projects, the impacted populations, how their work connects to specific Red Flag issues, and the learning outcomes they hope to achieve.
Applications must include a project name, a brief one-sentence summary, a detailed program narrative, and a budget table specifying the use of requested and non-requested funds. Applicants are also encouraged to provide a budget narrative and to describe any collaborating organizations and funding partners. Required documentation includes a copy of the lead agency’s IRS tax exemption letter, unless the applicant is a Missouri public school or government entity. Additional visual materials and clarifying information may also be uploaded.
Applications are due by 11:45 p.m. on September 30, 2025. Awards will be announced in January 2026. For program-related inquiries, applicants can contact Ashley Fleming, while technical questions should be directed to Latesa Carter at (417) 864-6199.
Strong applications clearly link to Community Focus Report Red Flags and include collaboration, innovation, and measurable outcomes. In-kind or leveraged support should be noted even though not required.
