Adirondack Foundation Special and Urgent Needs Fund

The Special and Urgent Needs (SUN) Fund is a responsive grant program administered by the Adirondack Foundation, which aims to support nonprofit organizations and public agencies serving the Adirondack region of New York during times of crisis. The Adirondack Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the vitality of the Adirondack region and its communities through philanthropy and community leadership. The SUN Fund is one of its critical tools to address emergent needs that arise unexpectedly and require immediate attention. The SUN Fund provides financial assistance for short-term needs where relatively small amounts of funding—ranging from $250 to $2,500—can make a meaningful difference. This fund is not designed for long-term or ongoing operational support but is focused specifically on unanticipated, unbudgeted gaps that arise due to crises. The fund enables organizations to swiftly manage urgent situations and continue serving the community effectively. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code or be a public agency or municipality. Additionally, they must be located in or serve the residents of the Adirondack region, defined as all of Clinton, Essex, Franklin, and Hamilton counties, as well as the parts of Herkimer, St. Lawrence, Warren, and Washington counties within the Adirondack Park boundary, and the Saint Regis Mohawk Reservation. All applicants must provide services without discrimination based on race, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, or sexual orientation. The application process is open year-round with no deadlines, and applications are accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis. Applicants can expect a decision within two to three weeks of submission, providing a timely response to emergent needs. However, there are clear limitations on funding: the SUN Fund does not support individuals, long-term capital projects, debt reduction, ongoing budget shortfalls, or projects stemming from deferred maintenance. It also excludes organizations that have received SUN grants within the past year, as the fund is meant for urgent, non-recurring support. Questions regarding the application process can be directed to Leslee Mounger, Funds and Program Officer, at 518-523-9904 or via email at leslee.mounger@adkfoundation.org. The foundation’s mailing address is PO Box 288, Lake Placid, NY 12946. Interested donors are also encouraged to contribute to the SUN Fund to continue its impact across the region.