Helping Today Grants

The "Helping Today" grant program, sponsored by The Erie Community Foundation, is designed to bolster Erie County nonprofits that are directly addressing the most pressing needs within their community. This initiative aligns seamlessly with the Foundation's broader mission to foster community well-being by empowering local organizations to make a tangible difference. The grant aims to strengthen the capacity of these nonprofits, ensuring they are well-equipped to tackle significant community issues. The primary beneficiaries of this program are individuals and families who are socio-economically disadvantaged, as well as historically marginalized communities within Erie County. The overarching impact goal is to uplift these populations by supporting projects that offer direct benefits and work towards equitable outcomes. By focusing on capacity building, the Foundation seeks to enhance the effectiveness and reach of its grantee organizations, thereby creating a more resilient and supportive community for all. The program prioritizes projects that enhance a nonprofit's ability to serve its community effectively. This includes support for a wide range of operational areas, such as general operations, program development, strategic planning, marketing and community awareness initiatives, capital purchases (including essential technology and vehicles), facilities improvements, and rigorous program evaluation. These focus areas reflect a strategic approach to fostering organizational health and sustainability, which in turn leads to more impactful service delivery. While the grant size can range from $10,000 to $100,000, individual grants are capped at $50,000 and must be utilized within a 12-month period. Expected outcomes include stronger, more efficient nonprofits that can more effectively address community needs, leading to improved conditions for disadvantaged and marginalized groups. The Foundation's theory of change is rooted in the belief that by investing in the operational and programmatic capacity of local nonprofits, it can catalyze significant positive social change and contribute to a healthier, more equitable Erie County.