HomeMy WebLinkAboutGrant Program ProcedureDeschutes County Community Grant Program
General Information
The community grant program accepts applications once per year in support of non-profit organizations in
Deschutes County that are consistent with the priorities of the county. The county will be providing
$300,000 for these grants. Most awarded community grants will be between $5,000 and $30,000. These
grants are reserved for projects addressing needs in multiple areas and impacting a broad scope of the
community.
Funding Objectives
The county has four funding objectives, each with a particular interest area. Generally, projects should fit
within one of the following interest areas:
1. Providing emergency food, clothing and shelter to those who would otherwise go without these
essentials.
2. Protection for abused and/or neglected individuals who lack resources to otherwise obtain such
protection.
3. Health care, mental health care and addictions treatment for individuals who lack resources to
otherwise obtain such care.
4. Other essential services to underserved and indigent populations, especially children and seniors.
Eligibility for Grants
Requirements for applicants to the community grant program:
• The applicant must be a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization.
• The orgahization must be located in Deschutes County.
• The proceeds from the grant must be utilized in support of Deschutes County residents.
How to Apply for a Grant
Application deadlines are April 1 for the grants awarded in July. The application form is available on the
county website or in the Administrative Services office. Completed applications must be mailed or sent
electronically to the Deschutes County Administrative Services department on or before the deadline.
Once an application has been received, a multi -stage review begins. All applications will be reviewed by a
committee of county employees and community members based on five criteria:
1. Organizational stability and solvency
2. Connection to county funding objectives
3. Funds provide leverage to organization for receipt of other funds
4. Program complements existing county services
5. Uniqueness of services provided in Deschutes County
Each criteria will be weighed equally in determining final recipients. Some applicants may receive phone
calls and/or site visits to aid in this process.
Application Packet
For an application to be considered for a community grant, it must contain the following:
• Completed and signed application form
• Detailed description of organization history, purpose, leadership, structure and activities
• Organization budget for the current year
• Explanation of five-year fundraising strategy
• Most recent audited financial statements, if available. Otherwise, include end -of -year financial
statement for most recently completed fiscal year
• Board of Directors list
• Detailed description of the specific project or program that the grant funding will support,
including any other sources of funding
• Explanation of how the program or activities will positively impact the community and
complement existing services and programs currently offered by Deschutes County
• Identification of the specific communities or groups that will benefit from the funding
• An itemized budget indicating how the grant funds will be expended
• Organization's letter from the IRS granting 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status
• Explanation of anticipated outcomes and how success will be measured