Improve the Quality of Life in Custer County

The Custer County Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in the Custer County area by funding projects that address the needs of its communities. As a local philanthropic leader, the Foundation seeks to support initiatives that contribute positively across several community sectors. Its grantmaking is driven by a commitment to community betterment and focuses on a broad range of areas that impact everyday life in Custer County. Funding is available for nonprofit organizations located within Custer County that meet the Foundation’s eligibility guidelines. Grants are typically awarded in areas such as health care, education, culture and the arts, community services, law enforcement and drug awareness, recreation and youth activities, and community leadership training. Projects must show evidence of broad community support and preference is given to proposals that request partial, rather than full, funding for their initiatives. The grant process is not open to requests from religious organizations unless the projects are non-denominational in nature and demonstrate widespread community endorsement. Applications aimed at covering deficit spending or general operating expenses are generally not considered. Additionally, projects already completed or those scheduled for completion before grant decisions are made are ineligible for funding. Grant awards will expire 180 days after approval, and recipients are encouraged to submit an evaluation or report on the use of the funds. Grant applications are accepted year-round but are reviewed semiannually. The two review deadlines are April 30 for the Spring cycle and October 31 for the Fall cycle. Awards are determined by the Custer County Foundation Board of Directors. Applicants are typically notified following board decisions. Only one grant per organization is allowed within a twelve-month period unless an exception is granted by the Board. To apply, interested organizations may request an application form by visiting the Foundation office at 403 South 9th, Broken Bow, NE or by calling 308-872-2232. Invoices must be submitted prior to the disbursement of any awarded funds. Recipients are also encouraged to support the local economy by purchasing goods and services from businesses within Custer County. For additional information or assistance, applicants can contact Rilee at the Foundation via email at rilee@custercountyfoundation.org or by phone at 308-872-2232. Office hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.