Partners in Purpose Grant Program

The Partners in Purpose program is a collaborative effort between The Foundation for Enhancing Communities (TFEC) and TheBurg, created to amplify the work and community impact of local nonprofits in Dauphin and Cumberland counties, Pennsylvania. This initiative centers on storytelling as a tool for increasing nonprofit visibility, aiming to uplift smaller organizations serving the region through in-depth media features. TFEC, with a philanthropic legacy spanning more than a century, is committed to fostering sustainable community investment and donor-driven giving. In partnership, TheBurg contributes its established platform as a trusted community news outlet to broadcast the stories of selected nonprofits to over 20,000 readers in print and digital formats. The primary goal of the program is to provide selected nonprofits with meaningful exposure that enhances awareness, fundraising potential, and community connection. Three nonprofits will be chosen through a competitive application process to be highlighted in TheBurg’s publications throughout 2026. These features will be crafted by TheBurg’s in-house journalists and will focus on each organization’s mission, programs, impact, and role in regional development. The resulting stories are intended to engage the broader public, connect donors and volunteers to causes, and encourage civic support. Participation in the program is offered entirely free of charge to selected organizations. However, applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements: they must be registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, located in either Dauphin or Cumberland counties, and must provide services to residents in these areas. Additionally, eligible organizations must have an annual revenue of $2.5 million or less. These criteria ensure the program targets smaller, community-based nonprofits that stand to benefit significantly from increased visibility. The application period opens on February 18, 2026, and closes on March 27, 2026. Applications must be submitted through TFEC’s online grant portal. Applicants without an existing account must register before beginning the application process. Once logged in, applicants should search for the "Partners in Purpose 2026 Opportunity" to locate the correct form. Any technical difficulties during submission can be addressed by contacting TFEC at [email protected]. Applicants selected by a diverse, community-based committee will be notified by April 15, 2026. Following selection, they will engage in an editorial process with TheBurg’s journalists, including interviews, provision of media assets, and fact-checking of content. Organizations must also be available to attend two key community events in 2026: TheBurg Bash on September 3 and TFEC’s Inspire & Ignite celebration on November 16. These events further amplify the exposure and celebrate the program’s collaborative spirit. This opportunity is part of TFEC's broader mission to strengthen local communities through strategic partnerships and targeted investment in nonprofit capacity and sustainability. TheBurg’s role enhances this mission by connecting the public to powerful local stories, helping organizations expand their reach and deepen their impact. The Partners in Purpose program exemplifies how collaborative media and philanthropy initiatives can support and elevate community-serving entities in South Central Pennsylvania.