Applications for Greater Worcester Community Foundation Grants for Local Non Profits due March 16

The Greater Worcester Community Foundation is currently accepting grant applications for its 2015 Discretionary Grants Program.   Discretionary grants provide annual, renewable funding for the wide range of nonprofit initiatives that build healthy and vibrant communities in central Massachusetts.   Nonprofits have until March 16, 2015 to apply.

With a total annual discretionary grants budget of approximately $1.3 million, the grants are intended to augment the operating budgets of nonprofits serving the Foundation’s areas of interest. Those areas include:

·         Arts and Culture programs that enhance appreciation of diverse traditions, build strength and leadership of the creative sector, provide arts education, make neighborhoods more vibrant, or offer respite and inspiration to communities

·         Community Development including the creation of housing for low-income families, physical and safety improvements at the neighborhood level and the engagement of residents

·         Education including early childhood, academic achievement for disadvantaged youth, lifelong learning for adults, English as a second language and worker training

·         Environment including education in science and ecology, protection of the area’s natural resources, public education and grassroots community efforts, land and water conservation and expansion of opportunities for outdoor recreation

·         Health improvement and access to health care for vulnerable communities susceptible to poor health, to address unhealthy behaviors such as tobacco use, poor nutrition, and alcohol abuse

·         Human Services such as counseling and crisis support, legal services, shelter and housing, protection of children and vulnerable elders, refugees and immigrants and integration of people with disabilities

Grants are awarded in amounts of $3,000 – $25,000. All 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations serving the cities and towns of Worcester County are eligible to apply.  Grantees must be able to demonstrate sound planning and fiscal stewardship, have a legitimate and effective governing board and agree to the foundation’s reporting requirements. To learn more about the Greater Worcester Community Foundation Discretionary Grant Program click here.  Questions can be directed to Pamela B. Kane  at (508) 755-0980. Grant applications are available on-line and will be accepted through March 16.