Community Grant Program 2024

The Delaware County Foundation's Community Grant Program aims to bolster numerous non-profit organizations dedicated to community improvement within Delaware County, Ohio. This program aligns with the foundation's mission to support initiatives that enhance the quality of life for residents. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and government entities with projects that directly benefit Delaware County residents. The foundation strategically partners with organizations that demonstrate a commitment to addressing critical community needs, operating under a theory of change that by investing in key focus areas, they can foster a healthier, more vibrant, and prosperous community. The grant program targets a broad spectrum of beneficiaries, including animals through welfare initiatives; individuals enriched by arts and cultural activities; low-income residents combating food insecurity, seeking affordable housing, or facing barriers to transportation, childcare, and education; students of all ages through innovative educational programs; and the broader workforce through economic opportunity initiatives. The impact goals are comprehensive, aiming to promote proper animal care, enrich lives through arts, combat basic needs deficiencies, provide quality education, build prosperity, create jobs, and foster a healthier and more sustainable environment. The foundation's priorities and focuses are clearly delineated across six key areas: Animal Welfare, Arts & Culture, Basic Needs, Education, Economic Opportunity, and Environment. Within these broader categories, preference is given to programs specifically addressing recovery, housing, mental health, basic needs (such as food insecurity and utilities), ESL, and workforce development. This targeted approach ensures that funding is directed towards areas identified as having the most pressing needs and potential for significant positive change within the community. Expected outcomes include improved animal well-being, increased participation in cultural activities, reduced food insecurity, enhanced access to affordable housing, removal of transportation and childcare barriers, improved educational outcomes, greater economic prosperity, and tangible improvements in environmental health. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond the qualitative descriptions of impact, the grant duration of one year suggests that projects are expected to achieve their objectives within this timeframe, allowing for regular assessment of progress and impact by the foundation. Grants are expected to range from $2,500 to $20,000, providing crucial support to qualifying organizations.