Grants

GRANT APPLICATION WINDOWS:  Open as long as funds are available.

PERIOD 1:  January 1 - April 30

PERIOD 2:  May 1 - July 31

The York Community Foundation awards grants to both private and public services.  The grants are made only to agencies classified as a 501(c) (3) by the Internal Revenue Service organization and government agencies using the grant for capital expenditures and/or capital improvements

Application Process

The Grants Committee is responsible for reviewing grant applications and making recommendations to the Foundation Board of Directors, in accordance with the wishes of the donor, as to which grant applications should be approved.  The Grants Committee meets on an as needed basis.  A grant application is available to download online.  Additional information is available by contacting the Foundation office at 402-362-5531.

Charitable Areas of Interest

The Foundation awards grants from the six basic areas of philanthropy:

• community/civic
• arts/culture
• education
• recreation
• health
• human services

Eligibility Requirements

Grants are awarded to organizations in the York community, or those serving a significant number of York County residents.  Except in unusual circumstances, the Foundation does not award grants for:

• individuals
• operating expenses
• annual fund drives
• elimination of  previously incurred deficits
• established or new endowment funds
• travel or related expenses for individuals or groups
• Religious organizations where funds would be used in whole or in part to further the organization’s sectarian purposes 

Funding Limits  

• The Foundation does not normally fund entire projects or programs.  Preference is given to organizations that have raised a portion of the required funds, and/or enlisted the financial support of other organizations 
• Applicants must have a plan for future funding and support from other sources if funding is for an ongoing program.
• Grants are usually awarded only for a definite purpose within a specified time period – normally for 12 months or less.