Community Funding Program

The Community Funding Program administered by the City of Menlo Park aims to support local nonprofit agencies that address essential human service needs of Menlo Park residents. Designed to promote equity and transparency, the program offers supplemental financial assistance to nonprofit initiatives that align with the city’s policy-defined priorities. Funding is not intended to replace full program budgets but rather to support impactful, community-centered activities within the city. Each funded organization enters into a formal agreement with the City, outlining expected deliverables and associated reporting requirements, ensuring accountability and program alignment with community priorities. The scope of funded programs is clearly framed under three primary community needs: Basic Services, Community Enrichment, and Community Health. "Basic Services" include support initiatives for vulnerable populations such as the homeless, seniors, low-income individuals and families, and youth, offering subsistence, rental aid, healthcare, and civic engagement activities. "Community Enrichment" pertains to programs that enhance educational and recreational experiences and promote social equity. "Community Health" encompasses projects that advance residents’ well-being, environmental sustainability, and air quality improvements, both indoors and outdoors. Applicants must align their proposals with one of these recognized needs as outlined by City Council Policy CC-25-029. To maintain clarity and fairness, the program stipulates that each organization may submit only one application per funding cycle. Applications must focus on a single, well-defined program or service. Submissions are accepted annually from January 1 through March 5. Late or incomplete applications are automatically deemed ineligible for consideration. The evaluation process involves an initial review by a subcommittee in April, followed by a final determination and approval by the City Council in May. Once approved, agreements are executed and funds disbursed no later than July 31 of the same year. Applications must be submitted using the official Community Funding Program Application form. It is recommended that applicants save their progress while completing the form to prevent data loss. Applicants should thoroughly complete all sections of the application, as omissions may result in disqualification. The City of Menlo Park has demonstrated a strong commitment to local nonprofits, with past funding cycles supporting a diverse array of organizations. Examples of previous recipients include AbilityPath, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Peninsula, HIP Housing, Legal Aid Society of San Mateo County, JobTrain, Live In Peace, Sustainable San Mateo County, and others. This historical distribution showcases the City’s investment in a wide range of services from youth education and empowerment to environmental sustainability and housing support. Applicants are encouraged to direct any questions about the funding program to Judi Herren, Assistant to the City Manager/City Clerk. She can be reached via email at [email protected] or by phone at 650-330-6621. For nonprofits committed to making a measurable impact on the Menlo Park community, this grant offers a structured pathway to secure targeted, supplemental funding aligned with verified city priorities.