The Roy W. and Mary L. Pearson Charitable Fund, administered by the Phelps County Community Foundation, supports philanthropic initiatives in Holdrege, Nebraska. The fund was established by Roy and Mary Pearson to ensure their legacy of charitable giving in the region continues in perpetuity. Their longstanding commitment to local philanthropy inspired the creation of this dedicated resource aimed at supporting community-based projects with enduring impact.
The fund provides grants to qualified organizations operating in Holdrege, Nebraska, across six focus areas: education, cultural activities, human services, health and recreation, community development, and religion. However, religious projects must be non-denominational and aimed at promoting high ethical and moral standards. These focus areas reflect the Pearsons’ broad interest in improving various aspects of community life.
To be eligible, organizations must meet specific nonprofit criteria. Applicants must either be tax-exempt under IRS Section 501(c)(3), be government agencies applying for capital expenditures or improvements, or operate through a fiscal sponsor that holds 501(c)(3) status. Fiscal sponsorships are only allowed when there is a strong mission alignment and a history of collaboration. Additionally, applicants must be in good standing with the Phelps County Community Foundation, with no overdue evaluations from previous grants.
The fund does not support requests from individuals or applications that seek funding for scholarships, annual fundraising drives, operating expenses of established organizations or government entities, deficit reduction, or endowment creation. Grants are also not available for travel costs or religious organizations whose work advances sectarian purposes.
Applicants must submit proposals through Foundant GLM, the Foundation’s online grants management system. The process begins with a Letter of Intent. Following review, qualified applicants will be invited to submit a full application. Tutorials and system access are available via the Foundation’s website, PhelpsFoundation.org. The application window is open twice per year, with deadlines on January 1 and July 1.
Grants can fund up to 50% of the total project cost. There is no specific award ceiling or floor disclosed, and total available funding is not provided. However, matching funds must account for the remaining 50% of the project, which applicants must demonstrate. The fund is recurring with two predictable cycles each calendar year, providing regular opportunities for eligible community groups to apply.
