First lady Michelle Obama presents her Let’s Move! campaign to provide options for ending childhood obesity. Part of that campaign includes the Apps for Healthy Kids competition in which software developers, game designers, students, and other innovators are challenged to “develop fun and engaging software tools and games that drive children, especially “tweens” (ages 9-12) – directly or through their parents– to eat better and be more physically active.”

The competition offers $60,000 in prizes. The submission period ends June 30, 2010. You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the Apps for Healthy Kids website.

Posted by admin at 04:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Non-profits that collaborate effectively to gain greater impact by working together are invited to apply for the 2011 Collaboration Prize.

Criteria needed for collaborations to be eligible to apply:

• demonstrates improved effectiveness in achieving social good,
• more effectively uses human and financial resources,
• represents an innovative response to a specific challenge or opportunity, and
• exhibits characteristics that would demonstrate that the collaboration is a field/sector/community model.

Applications are accepted from June 1 to July 26. Each of eight finalists will receive $12,500 and the grand prize winner will receive an additional $150,000. For additional information click here.

Posted by admin at 03:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The General Commission on Religion and Race (CORR) has a mission of “investing in community organizations, churches, conferences, seminaries, and ecumenical bodies that nurture programs focused on dismantling racism”. This year, their funding for racial justice is looking at programs that provide action and advocacy efforts related to sanctuary and assuring the rights of racial ethnic immigrants, groups, and refugees. CORR makes grants of up to $40,000. To apply your must return the downloadable application by June 30th. To learn more, click here.

Posted by admin at 02:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The International Initiative for Impact Evaluation (3ie) has just issued a call for proposals for impact evaluations under its third Open Window Round. They accept proposals for the impact evaluation of social and economic development interventions in low and middle income countries in any sector. 3ie will award up to US$10 million in grants under this round.

Preferences:

• Evaluations of large scale programs with high policy impact and include a clear communications strategy
• Proposals with close partnership with the implementing agency
• Proposals produced by developing country researchers and/or evaluators or through a partnership between developed and developing country partnership of research teams
• Evaluation designs based on the theory of change underlying the program with evaluation questions addressing the causal chain

Background

The International Initiative for Impact Evaluation (3ie) works to improve the lives of people in the developing world by supporting the production and use of evidence on what works, when, why and for how much. 3ie is a new initiative that responds to demands for better evidence, and will enhance development effectiveness by promoting better informed policies. 3ie finances high-quality impact evaluations and campaign to inform better program and policy design in developing countries.

Letters of inquiry are due by July 7. For more information on this RFP go to Arun Virk, Programme Officer at ow3@3ieimpact.org and to see a details visit www.3ieimpact.org/openwindow.

Posted by admin at 01:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

(Having a teenage son, this one really struck a note for me).

The Best Buy Foundation is supporting non-profits across the United States for providing positive experiences designed to help teens in the following areas:

• to excel in school
• to engage in their communities
• to develop leadership skills

501(c) (3) tax exempt nonprofits can apply to the Foundation’s “@15 community Grants Program” which intends to grant a total of $2 million to a group of selected applicants.

“Special consideration will be given to programs that serve a diverse population in local or regional communities; build social, academic, leadership, and/or life skills in early adolescents (ages 13-18); show positive results against a demonstrated community need; and reach at-risk children in working families.”

The deadline to apply is July 1, 2010.

Posted by admin at 10:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The priority of the Needmore Foundation is to give support to those organizations that work toward improvement of people’s social, economic or political conditions which might bar their access to participation in a democratic society. The Foundation provides both regional and national grants. Their national grants “support grassroots community organizing groups that link the power of faith, labor, and community organizations into powerful local, state, and regional organizing networks that represent the interests of low- and moderate-income communities”.

Pre-application forms will be due this May on the 31st. Click here for more details on the Foundation’s grants and their priorities.

Posted by admin at 12:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

State Farm Operation Centers accept grant requests for local non-profit initiatives including those for educational institutions and governmental agencies. The types of grant requests State Farm focuses on are in the following areas:

1. Safe Neighbors (auto & roadway, home, fire, natural disaster, personal finance)
2. Strong Neighborhoods (affordable housing, 1st time home owners, community revitalization,
economic development)
3. Education Excellence (teacher development, service learning, systemic improvement)

The grant cycle runs from January 2 to October 31. Each grant area has a separate application which can be accessed by clicking here.

Posted by admin at 02:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

A competitive grant opportunity for State and local government entities, Indian tribal governments, public universities and colleges, and faith-based and community-based nonprofits is available from the Department of Justice. The DOJ offers the Second Chance Act for funding “mentoring and other transitional services to help reintegrate juvenile offenders into their communities.” Youth in programs must be younger than 18 years old.

The deadline to apply is Tuesday, April 27, 2010. For more information, click here.

Posted by admin at 11:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

In their efforts to promote children’s literacy, the Snapdragon Book Foundation is providing grants to libraries that serve disadvantaged youth throughout the U.S. Last year grants ranged from $500 to $2,000. This year the Foundation anticipates having more funds to disburse and encourages all K-12 private, public, charter, and experimental schools to apply.

The Foundation accepts applications via email through April 30th each year. Open ended questions on the downloadable application are designed to encourage extended answers. Access to application guidelines and forms is available by clicking here.

Posted by admin at 01:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Autism Speaks Family Services Community Grants are available for “projects that promote services that enhance the lives of those affected by autism spectrum disorders.”

Submitted proposals need to address one of three areas of need — education, recreation/community activities, and young adult/adults services. Autism Speaks has a special interest in supporting new programs or the expansion of existing projects.

• June 10th, 2010 - Letters of Intent Due
• June 25th, 2010 - Final Proposals Due

To learn more about this grant opportunity please click here.

Posted by admin at 02:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Local nonprofit housing organizations can apply for grants from the Wells Fargo Home Ownership Grant Program to help low to moderate incomes people obtain sustainable housing. This program covers the following areas of interest:

• Construction/Rehab
• Education, counseling and prevention
• Subsidies
• Home repairs

Revenue Service Code 501 (c) (3) organizations or government entities may apply. There are various application rounds during the year with the next deadline on May 1st. For more information please click here.

Posted by admin at 02:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

The Suder Foundation accomplishes its mission by partnering with four-year public universities to implement its Suder Scholars Program. The Foundation partners with universities that have an undergraduate classes with a target size between 10,000 to 25,000 students to offer financial, academic, emotional, and social assistance to first-generation college attendees.

You must be a four-year institution of higher learning in the United States to be eligible. Each university is expected to give a contribution to the scholarship that may include additional funds toward scholarships, housing and/or meals for the scholars, administrative staff, or other resources. Grant applications are due April 15, 2010 and details on how to apply can be found by clicking here.

Posted by admin at 09:53 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Not so long ago I visited my 4th grader’s classroom to do a presentation at the beginning of the day. As the students came into the room I noticed Nick’s teacher had them go to the board and write down what they had for breakfast. For the students who put nothing she asked if they would like to take a moment to go to the cafeteria to get something to eat. I was touched by her compassion and saddened that these children were going without. The funder today wants to see kids have good nutrition in the morning to help them throughout their day.

The got breakfast? Foundation has a mission to make sure “every child, regardless of background, starts the school day with a nutritious breakfast in order to learn, grow, and develop to his or her fullest potential.” The Foundation has expanded its Silent Hero Grant Program to include participants in the federal Summer Nutrition program.

If you are a public, non-profit private school, or 501(c)(3) non-profit that participates in the national School Breakfast Program you may qualify for the Alternate Meal Service Breakfast Grant. Alternate meal service is defined as either breakfast in the classroom, grab and go or any other alternate site meal service outside of the standard cafeteria lunch line.

Summer grant applications are available now and should be submitted by April 1, 2010. They will be awarding grants between $2,000 and $10,000. For more information you can contact the Foundation at info@gotbreakfast.org".

Posted by admin at 01:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Today’s grant gives support to school running programs in an effort to help keep students physically active and decrease the growing occurrence of childhood obesity. The ING Run for Something Better School Awards Program (RFSB) partners with the National Association for Sport and Physical Activity to provide a minimum of fifty $2,000 grants to schools “that want to establish a running program, or expand an existing program, that targets grades 4 through 8 in public elementary or middle schools.”

Application deadline is April 15, 2010. For guidelines and information click here or visit Run for Something Better.

Posted by admin at 08:55 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

My Uncle recently passed away and one of the more moving parts of his memorial was the honor guard. My Uncle Emil served in the army in World War II and many more of my relatives have given their time to serve their country. In thinking of them, I offer this grant opportunity.

The McCormick Foundation has a Veteran’s Program which” honors the service of America's veterans by supporting nonprofit organizations that assist veterans in overcoming their unique challenges and successfully re-entering life at home and work.”

Nonprofit organizations that apply need to focus on one of McCormick’s key areas relevant to veterans:
1. mental health;
2. family issues;
3. shelter and homelessness;
4. job and career development; and
5. legal challenges facing our veterans

Grant amounts between $5,000 and $25,000 are awarded. Before submitting a proposal, an organization should send a two-to-three page letter of inquiry. To access the guidelines, click here.

Posted by admin at 02:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

One of the many grants of the Kresge Foundation is called of Healthy Environments and is in support of state and regional efforts “to improve the health outcomes of vulnerable children and their families by funding highly promising, evidence-based projects and programs that have the potential to achieve broad change through replication or increased scale.”

Funding priorities are clean air, safe and healthy housing and schools, and safe, accessible, and inviting outdoor play spaces – all advanced with community engagement, citizen leadership and cross-sector alliances. Funding amounts between $100,000 and $750,000 may be requested by grant seekers for up to 3 year project periods. Applicants may also choose to apply for a one-year strategic planning grant. Online letters of inquiry are accepted any time. For more information, click here.

Posted by admin at 09:18 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

One of our client projects has been a community needs assessment for the Minnesota State Arts Board (MSAB). It is exciting to watch the new developments coming from their planning efforts. Today I would like to highlight a number of new grants MSAB is offering.

MSAB has “seven new grant programs that will support arts and arts access, arts learning, and arts and cultural heritage across the state, and will give Minnesotans more opportunities to experience the arts.” The new granting programs fund:

Arts Access
Arts Tour Minnesota
Partners in Arts Participation
Arts Learning
Community Arts Schools and Conservatories
Folk and Traditional Arts
Minnesota Festival Support —

You can learn more about 3 of the 7 programs right now on the MSAB website with more information to come on the rest. Grants have varying application deadlines, so please check their website.

Posted by admin at 03:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

For nine years MetLife Foundation and the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) have been partnering to “to recognize, sustain and share the work of innovative partnerships between community groups and police to promote neighborhood safety and revitalization” through its Community-Police Partnership Awards.

Grants range from $15,000 to $25,000 and are awarded in two categories: Neighborhood Revitalization and Special Strategy Awards. Preliminary applications are due Feb. 26, 2010. To learn more, click here.

Posted by admin at 01:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

School music programs have really taken a financial hit over the past decade. The Muzak Heart & Soul Foundation would like to help through its Music Matters Grant Program for K-12 school music programs and independent music programs throughout the United States. “Public school programs (qualifying for Title I federal funding and serving a minimum of 70 percent low-income students) as well as nonprofit organizations directly funding music education and serving students regardless of their ability to pay are eligible to apply.” You must apply by February 5, 2010. You can click here for the guidelines and the application form.

Posted by admin at 10:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The misuse of alcohol is a problem for college campuses. The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is providing funds for NCAA member-institutions and conferences to help in integrating athletics into efforts to reduce alcohol abuse on college campuses. The CHOICES grants range up to $15,000 for the first year, $10,000 for the second year, and $5,000 for the third, final year. The deadline to submit grants is February 16, 2010. You can download the proposal and guide lines here.

Posted by admin at 09:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

We are turning our attention to health here at the Improve Group. The State Health Improvement (SHIP) grant evaluations we are working on remind us daily to keep ourselves well and our communities healthy. In this spirit, the following funding program is aimed at caring for the health of our children.

The Community Access to Child Health (CATCH) makes grants of up to $12,000 to pediatricians in the initial and/or pilot stage of developing and implementing a community-based child health initiative. The fund is a national initiative of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Activities may include service delivery, community meetings, focus groups, and development of grant proposals in the context of a pilot project. The deadline to apply is January 29, 2010. For additional information, click here.

Posted by admin at 10:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

As I complete this last 2009 Grant Gazing, I want to share that we appreciate everyone who follows our website and our blog. In 2010, the Improve Group will reach our 10 year business anniversary and we have some exciting plans for our website and all of our internet communications. As we make these changes throughout the year, we hope you will enjoy the evolution of our work and let us know what you would like to know. You can send comments and suggestions to info@theimprovegroup.com. Thank you!

This week’s pick: The Longview Foundation for Education in World Affairs and International Understanding has a global view of education and works to help youth in the United States learn about world regions and global issue. For U.S> K-12 schools the following grants are provided:

• Internationalizing Teacher Preparation grants encourage teacher preparation programs at colleges and universities to adopt a range of strategies to develop the global expertise of future teachers.
• Innovations in International Education grants support strategic, field-building activities that help bring global education to large numbers of students and teachers.

Grants range between $15,000 and $30,000 and the deadline for letters of inquiry is January 15, 2010. Click here for more details.

Posted by admin at 02:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

This week’s pick: The new Native American New Enterprise Program is a partnership with the Midwest Minnesota Community Development Corporation (MMCDC) and the Bold Thinking Institute. The program will work to assist independent business' success in the Midwest and is completely free to all tribal members in Minnesota, South Dakota, North Dakota, and Wyoming. “This program provides a path for developing a business and an opportunity for funds to develop the business, whether the business is just beginning or it has been operating for a few years.”

Also available will be educational resources for participants who set and reach their goals including providing funds of up to $10,000 to help grow the business. Access will be given to business coaches through one-on-one, online mentoring. Please direct questions about this program to info@boldthinking.com. For more information, visit their website by clicking here.

Posted by admin at 01:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

At the Improve Group we work with numerous organizations that mentor, guide, educate and assist our youth. One of the outcomes many of our clients look for is how well a young person can not only grasp the concept that is being shared with them, but also take the initiative to execute it or teach another how to do so. My funder today is looking for those organizations who are promoting this kind of engagement and personal growth in young people in the community.

This week’s pick: The Starbucks Foundation through their Shared Planet Youth Action Grants program is granting funds to help youth get involved in shaping their communities through entrepreneurship. Nonprofits serving youth ages 6 to 24 are eligible to apply for grants of up to $25,000.

The Foundation has an open deadline for submitting their application with reviews happening on a quarterly basis. For additional information click here.

Posted by admin at 10:40 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

My background in theater is something I treasure. I was allowed to travel and perform all around the United States and it was an extremely educational experience. We have been very fortunate at the Improve Group to be able to work with a wide variety of artistic organizations along with those that help to support the arts. This week I have an opportunity for arts organizations who wish to spread their talent around the world.

This week’s pick: Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation’s USArtists International “provides support for American dance, music and theatre ensembles and solo performers to travel to major international arts festivals anywhere in the world outside the United States.”

To develop appreciation for excellence in American arts, USArtists International invites artists and nonprofit arts groups that have been invited to participate in international festivals outside of the United States to apply for funding. Application deadlines are Jan. 8 and May 3, 2010. Click here for eligibility details and application guidelines

Posted by admin at 09:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I must admit that one of the things I miss most at this time of year is fresh garden vegetables. With all the holiday munching it is too bad the good weather has past and there aren’t as many locally or home grown items readily available to keep us healthier. My funder today’s offers a gardening funds to promote an understanding of gardening and the know how to make it happen.

This week’s pick: Welch's, the processing and marketing subsidiary of the National Grape Cooperative Association, and Scholastic's Parent & Child Magazine have launched the new Harvest Grants which will help schools across the U.S. to create fruit and vegetable gardens. One of there goals is to make this a very hands-on learning experience for the students.

Five K-8 schools will receive packages from Welch’s valued at $1,000 each; 25 schools will receive $500 packages; and 70 schools will receive $250 packages. Deadline to submit a request is February 6, 2010. To see the full RFP, click here.

Posted by admin at 04:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

While on last week’s trip to the American Evaluation Association Conference in Orlando, Florida, I was pleased to see that the huge hotel that housed the event had a very special amenity – a nature trail. Both Leah and I took the trail at different times during our stay and enjoyed the execise and the beautiful plants that were noted along the way. In a time when it is so easy to lose track of the importance of getting a little fresh air and exercise, I was very pleased to have this resource so readily available. My funder today also believes in getting outdoors and taking a good walk in through nature.

This week’s pick: In order to keep America’s public trails protected and accessible, the American Hiking Society offers the National Trails Fund. “The Fund's grants help give local groups the resources they need to secure access, volunteers, tools and materials to protect America's public trails.”

Ten applicants will each be awarded $5,000. Members of the Alliance of Hiking Organizations receive 5 bonus points on their National Trails Fund applications. Deadline for an application is December 15, 2009. Click here for more information.

Posted by admin at 11:16 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

A good book can change your life. When I was still in elementary school I recall 2 books that really opened up my imagination and gave me a sense of the world beyond my smaller Wisconsin town. I read The Once and Future King by T.H. White and Gone With the Wind by Margaret Mitchell. Thanks to those books and their authors I believe I started a life-long love of history as well. To help more generations appreciate the transformative power of literature my funder today offers the following opportunity.

This week’s pick: The Big Read is a program of the National Endowment for the Arts in cooperation with Arts Midwest. The mission of this program is to revitalize the role of literature in American culture. Grants will be made to museums, colleges, and universities partnering with libraries that encourage reading by participating in The Big Read (September 2010 through June 2011).

Approximately seventy-five grants of up to $20,000 in matching funds will be awarded. The deadline to apply is February 2, 2010. In an effort to keep the application process green they request that materials be accessed online.

Posted by admin at 01:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Over my life I have found that it is our past that helps shape us into who we are today. Sharing that past is part of the joy of the holiday season, when we connect with those who “knew us when” and see what we’ve become today. Understanding and preserving cultural history is also a great tool of education. It keeps a foundation under us and educates youth on their important ancestry. My funder for today’s Grant Gazing has helped many people in preserving and honoring their cultural history.

This week’s pick: Steven Spielberg established the Righteous Person’s Foundation to build a diverse and vibrant Jewish Community in the United States. The Foundation funds many aspects that assist the Jewish community including:

• Using the arts, culture, and media to engage a broad audience in what it has meant and can mean to be a Jew today;
• Engaging with youth and young adults on issues of Jewish identity and community;
• Promoting understanding between Jews and those of other faiths and backgrounds;
• Encouraging Jews to participate in the work of tikkun olam (social justice)\;
• Educate people about the events of the Holocaust

Grants typically range between $15,000 and $250,000 and funds may be issues over multiple years. Letters of inquiry can be submitted two times a year and the next submission date is December 1, 2009. For more details, click here.

Posted by admin at 09:24 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The Improve Group understands the importance of getting together with others in your field and sharing knowledge to expand ideas and increase skills. We will be attending the American Evaluation Conference 2009 this November to do just that. I found this conference-related opportunity to pass along for those who work in the area of technology for our schools.

This week’s pick: The good news is that there seems to be more opportunities for educator to increase their knowledge and application of technology in the classroom. The Foundation for Technology Education offers a $1,000 grant to offset costs to attend the International Technology Education Association (ITEA) Conference. The ITEA mission is to promote technological literacy for all by supporting the teaching of technology and promoting the professionalism of those engaged in these pursuits. Deadline to apply is December 1, 2009. To apply, click here.

Posted by admin at 03:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

With the school budgets being tighter and tighter this past year, the Junior High my son attends lost their librarian position. As a Parent Association President I am concerned with all the items schools, students and teachers have been doing without. I keep a watch eye for opportunities that might help alleviate such shortfalls. My funder today brings one of those helpful opportunities to schools and those who love to read.

This week’s pick: The Laura Bush Foundation for Libraries will be awarding grants of up to $6,000 for schools that are working to update, extend, and diversify the book collections of school libraries. The Foundation hope to promote a love of reading by providing schools and students with the books they most need. Primary focus will be given to schools with a very high percentage of students who qualify for free or reduced price lunch.

The deadline for application is December 31, 2009 and more information can be found by clicking here.

Posted by admin at 04:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

One of my sons recently fulfilled an obligation to put in 30 hours of volunteer time into family, church and community efforts. With a start that began with teen grumbling he soon started enjoying himself and the contribution he was making along with many others. There is not enough that can be said for the power of people working together to better their community. The purpose of my next highlighted funder reflects support for this type of positive, communal work.

This week’s pick: ServeMinnesota, a grantee of the Corporation for National and Community Service, is a nonprofit which administers federal AmeriCorps State Grants in Minnesota. Statewide public and nonprofit agencies have created opportunities for thousands of AmeriCorps members to serve in Minnesota. These grants pay for costs necessary to implement new or existing programs.

To apply, a concept paper is due by October 26, 2009 with a full application due by December 8 2009. For full instructions on how to apply, click here.

Posted by admin at 04:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I can’t believe I made it through college without the use of a computer. I think back on how much easier life would have been and how much more in-depth my work would have been had computers been more widely used in the 80’s. The Improve Group has been involved in recent evaluations on integration of technology into the classroom and the positive effects it has had for students, parents and educators alike. In this day of abundant computer information coupled with the various technological devices available to aid in education, it is hard to believe that so many schools are lacking.

My funder today has teamed up with other businesses to give K-12 classrooms some assistance in attaining the latest technology.

This week’s pick: Samsung’s Electronics America invites applicants in its Four Season’s of Hope Technology Competition.

Over the past five years, Samsung’s Hope for Education (now part of Four Season’s of Hope) “has provided millions of dollars in Samsung technology and Microsoft software to more than 270 K-12 schools across the United States in an effort to reduce the technology gap within our education system.”

To be considered for a portion of the $1 million being offered in new technology, you need to write a 100 word essay about how consumer electronics can enhance learning at your school. Students, parents and teachers can submit essays. For more information, go to the applications page by clicking here.

This special initiative will reward winning writers with a Samsung Go Netbook and their local schools with Samsung products, Microsoft software, DIRECTV educational television programming, and cash grants as well as special @15 gift cards supplied by Best Buy.

Deadline to submit is November 1, 2009.

Posted by admin at 02:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Out-of-school reading habits of students has shown that even 15 minutes a day of independent reading can expose students to more than a million words of text in a year. - Anderson, Wilson, & Fielding, 1988

I owe so much to my mother who has always been a true example of an avid reader that shared her love of books with her children. Encouraging a child to read can create a positive chain reaction. Children who often read open their minds to new concepts, improve their spelling, punctuation and word recognition, and self-educate therefore enriching their scholastic experience.

My funder today wants to help youth to encourage their peers to read.

This week’s pick: Youth Service America (YSA) “is a resource center that partners with thousands of organizations committed to increasing the quality and quantity of volunteer opportunities for young people to serve locally, nationally, and globally. “

YSA is partnering with the National Education Association to award their Youth Leaders for Literacy Grants. Thirty Literacy Grants will be awarded to young people across the United States for successful and innovative projects that address a literacy need in their school or community. Five hundred dollars along with $500 in books will be granted to each awardee. Youth ages 5 to 25 are eligible. For more information on this opportunity, click here.

Posted by admin at 09:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

As the Improve Group begins work on evaluation for the State Health Improvement Program (SHIP) in Faribault, Martin and Watonwan Counties we have healthy living on our minds. Health is a multi-layered process that asks us to get regular checkups, watch what we eat and what we do. My funder today supports an active lifestyle as one of the paths to health.

This Week’s Pick: Liberty Mutual is making Responsible Sports Grants available to sports divisions in three categories:

• large division (two hundred or more players)
• small division (under two hundred players)
• educational groups (school athletic programs)

“To be eligible for the program, league administrators must first register their youth sports organization at the Responsible Sports Web site. Then, coaches, parents, administrators, and youth sports supporters can participate in the Responsible Sports Parenting and/or Responsible Coaching coursework.”

Those who pass the self-paced coursework & quiz can give the credit to their favorite youth sports league. Twenty organizations who have the most credited certifications will each receive a Responsible sports Grant in the amount of $2,500; for more information click here.

Posted by admin at 03:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

We all face challenges in our lives. For example, I watch my sons struggle for acceptance in their schools and among their peers. These are trials most of us have had to face. Many people live with additional challenges due to a disability and living with a disability can be especially hard on children - who do not want to feel any different than their peers. My funder today is looking for programs that assist children with disabilities to lead a full, vibrant life.

This week’s pick: CVS Caremark is a Corporation providing health and pharmaceutical products and assistance. One of their Community Grants supports “programs that promote independence among children with disabilities including physical and occupational therapies, speech and hearing therapies, assistive technology and recreational therapies.” Proposed programs may include either physical activities or play opportunities for children and should address the specific needs of the population served.

The grants are targeted for those under 21 with disabilities and the application process runs from January 1 through October 31. Qualifying organizations are eligible for grants of up to $5,000.

A CVS/pharmacy store must be located within the state where your community organization resides. Grant applications are submitted online. You will need your Tax ID number to access the application. There is a pre-screening process before completing a proposal.

Posted by admin at 09:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

In this time of economic recovery while we are still experiencing cutbacks and reductions it was nice to find new growth in the foundation sector.

This week’s pick: As the next evolution for the American Indian Family Empowerment Program (AIFEP) a new foundation had been formed called the Tiwahe Foundation (Tiwahe is a Dakota word meaning family). This continuing collaboration by the Marbrook, Westcliff, and Grotto Foundations will be run by individuals from within the Native American Community.

Although still in its fundraising stage of development, the Tiwahe Foundation will continue the work of AIFEP focusing on cultural preservation and self-determination. Look to this fund to provide efforts like the AIFEP micro-grants and other funding avenues that will support the development of culturally based philanthropy programs within the Indian community.

Posted by admin at 10:32 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

My boys and I were watching that home rebuilding show that changes lives for people by providing a healthy living environment. This particular show was about a family of 13 that had adopted most of their children and the result was a beautiful mixture of boys from vastly different races and cultures. I was moved by the unity of this family that saw no prejudice in facial color or personal history.

My funder today is also in support of harmony and equality among people.

This Week’s Pick:
W.K. Kellogg Foundation supports a diverse collection of community-based, regional and national projects designed to promote racial healing, mitigate the effects of structural racism and help to eliminate institutionalized and structural racism. This new grant for Community-Based Racial Equality Programs addresses healing efforts which may include:

a. Training and learning experiences
b. Dialogues
c. Local history narratives and/or exhibits related to racial history
d. Race-relations and human rights education and assistance
e. Outreach, media, and communication efforts on racial issues
f. School and organizational curricular projects
g. Storytelling and documentation of local racial histories
h. Local regulatory or policy initiatives such as school reform health disparities or citizen engagement efforts

This funding effort also supports:
a. Sustained coalitions and/or multi-sector partnerships with clearly stated goals and projected outcomes that affect the lives of marginalized children
b. Awareness, education, information dissemination, and creative views of media

The Foundation anticipates awarding grants in amounts up to $400,000. The deadline to apply is September 30, 2009 and applications are made online. To review the RFP please click here.

Posted by admin at 01:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

My older son is going to be confirmed in our church this year and part of that process involves his giving 30 hours of his time to family, community and the church. What impresses me about this requirement is that it helps a young person see beyond their own world and give to someone else who is of need. My funder today understands this important lesson of giving and wants to help young people bring their talents to the service of others.

This week’s pick: One time mini-grants through the Pay It Forward Foundation are earmarked for “service activities that benefit a school, a neighborhood or the greater community, and that include learning goals for the youth participants.”

Funds may be used for:
• Supplies
• Materials
• Equipment
• Transportation to a service site

Only emailed applications are accepted. Grants of up to $500 are available.
Application deadlines are Sept. 15 and Feb. 15 each year and requests may be submitted at any time. For guidelines, Click here.

Posted by admin at 10:26 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

How many of you are out there are enjoying incredible vegetables from your own garden or from a local farmers market?

I am one of the garden-crazy as my apartment complex put in a community garden plot this year. I could not be happier. I learned to garden from my parents when I was a little girl and I would like to see all children have that kind of education. Many schools and community organizations have been stepping up to teach the joys and benefits of growing your own food. This week’s funder supports gardening efforts.

This week’s pick: The National Gardening Association (NGA) has small grants to help teach youth about nutrition and the issue of hunger through its Healthy Sprouts Awards. The NGA promotes “home, school, and community gardening as a means to renew and sustain the essential connections between people, plants and the environment.”

Requirements for the grants:

o Gardens must be planted in 2010
o At least 15 youth ages 3-18 must be involved

Applications are due by Saturday, October 17th. Click here for guidelines and forms.

Posted by admin at 08:24 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Sorry if I sound like a broken record in my blogs lately, but September is close at hand. If you are like me you have been running around buying the pens, paper, folders, crayons, rulers, etc. to get the kids ready for a new school year. I find myself wondering why backpacks now cost more than a new cell phone.

But I digress.

As busy as families are at this time, I am sure the schools are doing ten times the preparation we are and funding is just as tight for them. My opportunity today brings assistance to charter schools.

This week’s pick: The Charter School Growth Fund (CSGF) "supports the development and expansion of high-quality charter management and support organizations." CSGF capital pools include:
• Multi-year implementation grants
• Acquisition, construction, renovation & leasehold improvement for expansion
• Central office costs
• Start-up grants (for specific districts/states) through Walton Family Foundation

The CSGF applications are accepted, online throughout the year. The 2010 Business Planning Program Grants have not yet announced their deadline. The Fund is looking for those groups that show commitment to balancing growth and high-quality performance. For more information on the implementation grants click here. To learn about who is eligible for the Walton grants click here.

Posted by admin at 02:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

With school supply lists coming out and stores stocking their shelves for the inevitable August rush it is easy to see why my mind is on education. I came across this unique and exciting classroom opportunity and I had to blog about it.

This week’s pick: The National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) is offering Challenge 20/20 an internet-based program which will pair classes at any K-12 grade level in U.S. schools with their counterpart classes in other countries. The challenge comes in working together towards solving actual global problems with responses that can be tried at the local level.

Public, private and charter schools may apply and they do not have to be NAIS members to participate. You may apply with schools in other countries with which you already have a partnership or apply with an issue of interest and have NAIS select a partner.

The deadline to submit an online application for the 2009-2010 Challenge is August 17, 2009. You will need to create a registration to access application materials but an online brochure and other details can be found by clicking here.

Posted by admin at 02:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I felt compelled to put this opportunity up right away, due to its focus on helping Minnesota non-profits and because two of our recent clients (who do great work in our state) are an integral part of the collaboration on this new fund.

Special pick: Minnesota nonprofits now have a new avenue for support in organizational capacity-building from the Resilient Organizations Fund. The Fieldstone Alliance, in partnership with the Nonprofits Assistance Fund and MAP for Nonprofits (MAP), has announced the launch of this $400,000 fund for active grantees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota Foundation. To have an impact Greater Minnesota, the Fund is working in partnership with the Minnesota Initiative Foundations.

BCBS Foundation grantee organizations can apply for grants of up to $20,000 to help them become “more sustainable, innovative, and better positioned to survive a potentially extended economic downturn.” Grant applications are available October 16 and due by November 2, 2009. Click here for more details.

Learn more: From August 10 through September 30 the Fund will convene 4 days of gatherings for nonprofit leaders for a dialogue on resilience leadership.

Posted by admin at 01:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

After my summer visit to South Dakota to see my relatives I was struck by the strength and wisdom of those I am lucky to call my family. Many of our Dakota relatives are from the Lakota Sioux tribe and come from the Rosebud Reservation. Although most of the family has moved from reservation lands they have not moved away from their beautiful culture and beliefs. Maintaining our heritage and the civil rights that come with being a citizen of this country means a lot to my family, as it does to the funder below.

This week’s pick: Fund of the Sacred Circle, a program of the Headwaters Foundation for Justice, is offering grants to “American Indian organizations throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin addressing issues of racial, social, economic and environmental justice.” Areas of interest to the Fund include:

• Land and cultural revitalization or restoration
• Sovereignty and treaty rights
• Self-determination and civil rights

The Fund provides Planning Grants up to $5,000 and Implementation Grants up to $10,000. August 1st, 2009 is the due date for applications. Organizations that apply typically have operating budgets of less than $400,000

Click here to access grant application materials.

Posted by admin at 11:18 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

It is great to go on vacation but it is just as good to be back. I hope you all have had a fun Fourth of July and gave yourself some time to relax and enjoy our beautiful country. I thought I would start my post-U.S.A. celebration Grant Gazing with a nod to our government’s efforts to support and encourage grassroots organizations that assist our countrymen and women. This grant is unique in that it gives funding to grantmaking organizations to help them supply additional support to others that make a difference.

This week’s pick: President Obama’s administration will work to leverage investments totaling $1 billion over five years administered by the Corporation for National and Community Service in support of high-impact social sector innovations. Our government has created an Innovation Fund to look for organizations that are providing successful community solutions and will use money to implement their programs and ideas on a bigger scale and to foster other new and unique responses.

"Solutions to America's challenges are being developed every day at the grassroots," Obama said during the White House gathering. "Government shouldn't be supplanting those efforts. It should be supporting those efforts."
- President Obama, June 2009

The fund will provide grants to existing grantmaking institutions that in turn support innovative, results-driven nonprofits. Grantmaking institutions and their nonprofit grantees will be asked to match the fund's investments. Go to http://www.nationalservice.gov/ to learn more.

Posted by admin at 03:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I will be on vacation all next week so I thought I would post my Grant Gazing a little early. I recently attended a ceremony honoring the achievements of my son's Junior High's 7th grade class. At that event, the principal stressed to the students the importance of having the goal of going on to post-secondary education. I have been coming across several grants in this area that focus on improving opportunity and quality of higher education through the U.S. Department of Education. Below is one of those opportunities.

This week’s pick: Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education (FIPSE) Special Focus Competition: College Course Materials Rental Initiative (CFDA# 84.116Y). “The purpose of the program is to support innovative grants and cooperative agreements to improve postsecondary education. It supports reforms, innovations, and significant improvements of postsecondary education that respond to problems of national significance and serve as national models.”

Estimated award amounts are $200,000-$300,000 for a two-year project period and $100,000-$150,000 for a one-year project period. The deadline for transmitting applications is August 2, 2009. To learn more click here.

Oh yes... everyone have a happy and safe

Posted by admin at 09:19 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Hurrah! It’s summer. I admit I may be someone afflicted with Seasonal Affective Disorder because when the temperature is over 70 I feel like a whole new person. I just want to be outside and enjoy life. I also feel much healthier in the summer because the opportunities for good food are so much more abundant. Gardens are blooming and farmer’s markets are in full swing. My funder is of a similar mindset and would like to make the most of initiatives that grassroots nonprofits are offering to help us lead healthier lives…and it doesn’t even have to be summer for that to happen.

This week’s pick: Grants to Encourage Health Lifestyles are offered through the American Medical Association Foundation Fund for Better Health. Support is offered to programs addressing the issue of healthy lifestyles in the following areas:

• Nutrition and physical fitness
• Alcohol, substance abuse and smoking prevention (includes smoking cessation)
• Violence prevention (domestic violence, Internet safety, bullying)

Maximum award amounts are $5,000 and the deadline to apply is July 15, 2009. For a link to the complete RFP, click here.

Posted by admin at 01:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

With the unpredictable weather we have had lately I thought it might be good to highlight a group that gives assistance in the area of disaster relief along with other funding objectives.

This week’s pick: The Social Responsibility Program of the FedEx Company serves core giving areas that include:

• emergency and disaster relief;
• pedestrian and child safety;
• education; and
• health and human services

You must be a non-profit to apply and you will need your organization’s tax identification number to access the online application. If you a non-U.S.-based non-profit you need to submit an application via mail. Requests are accepted year-round and reviewed in approximately 3 weeks of receipt. Indication of involvement of FedEx employees in your project will be favored.

Posted by admin at 10:59 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

On a visit back home to my folks I was recently going through old family photos. Every time I look at my Grandmother Vagnoni’s pictures I miss her even more. I still wonder at all the things she quietly accomplished in her life. One of those things was the way she helped the homeless who came off of nearby trains and found themselves at her back door getting a good hearty meal (even though her own family often had little to share). So many women I knew, and know of now, have done amazing things for others and have never really gotten the recognition they deserve. My featured funder would like to recognize women like these.

This week’s pick: The L’Oreal Paris Company is looking for nominations for their Woman of Worth Volunteer Awards. “In 2009, there will be ten honorees selected from across the United States. L'Oréal will make a $5,000 donation to each honoree's chosen charitable cause, and will make an additional $5,000 donation in the name of each winner to support the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund.” An additional online, national vote will select one woman to be a special honoree and her cause will receive $25,000.

Nominations of women who have done something inspiring for others are due in by July 13, 2009. Click here to access the nomination process.

Posted by admin at 01:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

This economy has so many organizations looking for funds that have fewer restrictions so they can apply them exactly where they need them. As I have stated in previous Grant Gazings, I am particularly interested in finding unrestricted funds or those for capital needs to highlight for my readers. My funder today is giving that kind of funding, along with special guidance to help those who want to help their neighborhoods.

This week’s pick: Applications are being accepted for the Neighborhoods of Excellence Initiative from Bank of America Charitable Foundation. “The Neighborhood Builders program provides $200,000 ($100,000 annually for 2 years) in unrestricted grant funding in addition to leadership training for two local nonprofit organizations working to promote vibrant neighborhoods.”

Grantees will also be part of special leadership development workshops. The due date to apply is June 30, 2009. You must create a login to access the application and apply.

Posted by admin at 11:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The gorgeous weather we have had is an invitation to spend as much time outdoors as possible. I have been very fortunate to have our apartment complex start a community garden this year. One of my sons helps me water and I have already picked lettuce from my plants. Another neighbor just put up a little play area in the space between the apartments for the toddlers to use. Special efforts like this mean a lot to those of us who don’t have a big back yard for our children to play in. My granting opportunity this week is directed toward communities with a need for fun outdoor places for young people.

This week’s pick: Minneapolis happens to be one of the eligible communities to apply for the KaBOOM Playspace Project. This organization hopes to provide a “great place to play within walking distance of every child in North America.”

There are 30 states that are currently eligible for funding with specific towns noted in each state. Towns are chosen by available funding partners. The process starts with an email application.

Evaluation of applicant projects includes:
• Enthusiasm and Commitment
• Need
• Location
• Demographics
• Ability to mobilize the community
• Site logistics
• Public access

You can view a 12 minute video on how to apply for a Playspace Project by clicking here. Fundraising from applicants is part of the process. Whether or not your project is selected KaBOOM has a free toolkit and resources to help you continue to plan out a project.

Posted by admin at 04:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Not long ago the Improve Group had the pleasure of working with the Minnesota State Arts Board on their statewide needs assessment. In the process we have learned a lot about this great resource for keeping the arts relevant and thriving in Minnesota. The opportunity I am highlighting today is one that allows artists to learn more about the grants they can apply for and the process involved in doing so.

This week’s pick: The Minnesota State Arts Board (MSAB) has a grant information session presented in partnership with the individual Regional Arts Councils to learn about grant opportunities for artists, the grant review process, and help artists prepare their application with one-on-one support.

The grants that will be discussed:
Artist Initiative - for grant information visit http://www.arts.state.mn.us/grants/artist_initiative.htm

Cultural Community Partnerships - for grant information http://www.arts.state.mn.us/grants/cultural_community_partnership.htm

Information Session Locations [subject to change, check their Web site for times and locations] Bemidji - June 17 Cloquet - June 23 Detroit Lakes - June 18 Duluth - June 24 Greenbush - June 15 Little Falls - June 3 Mankato - June 9 Marshall - June 11 Minneapolis - June 29 Moorhead - June 19 Mora - June 25 Red Lake - June 16 Rochester - June 8 Saint Paul - June 22 Saint Cloud - June 2 Willmar - June 1 Worthington - June 10.

Share

Posted by admin at 09:58 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

If you are getting out and about on the nice Spring days you may have found yourself among the beauty of our rural areas. Our DHS team spends a good deal of their time in rural places in Minnesota and enjoys the change of atmosphere from the Twin Cities. However, just because a place is not a big city doesn’t mean the people who live there aren’t dealing with the same issues as the city folks. Having resources available to make progress or change is important to our smaller communities and today’s pick wants to provide some help to our rural neighbors.

This week’s pick: The financial services provider for agriculture and rural America, AgStar, has grants for rural feasibility studies. The AgStar Fund for Rural America grants range between $1,000 and $5,000.
Eligible projects will entail:

• Economic assessment - suitable infrastructure, facilities, labor or raw material sources
• Business and market analysis
• Cost analysis
• Financial projections

Projects must be located in rural areas of AgStar’s territory. Implemented projects will create new permanent jobs that result in the economic development of a rural area.

You can direct questions about this opportunity to Jody Bloemke via email at jody.bloemke@agstar.com or you can look at details of the grant by clicking here.

Posted by admin at 03:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I think it is apparent that our world is in a period where it is imperative to get involved and be the change. At the same time that we are asked to help out, our resources have shrunk so some noble plans are not as viable as they once may have been. My funder today has thought of a solution for barriers like this, and the grant money offered will bring a few more people a chance to do their best for others.

This week’s pick: Through Travelocity and the Sabre Foundation there is a unique funding opportunity for those who wish to Travel For Good. This program “offers the Change Ambassadors Grant to help support Americans who wish to travel to participate in volunteer opportunities (volunteer vacations).” To be a candidate for these grants you must have a demonstrated history of long-term volunteering. You also need to select a trip destination as part of the application process. Two grants of $5,000 are given out quarterly. The current application round is April to June with notification in August and trips occurring September 5th through February 28th. For more details click here.

Posted by admin at 02:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Having recently dealt with broken arms, legs, neurosurgery and other emergency room visits it is no wonder that my mind is on the state of healthcare. I feel like I’ve seen the inside of more hospital rooms than the cast of E.R. With all the concern about the need for good health care today I felt compelled to look for someone who would fund efforts to deliver good care at a reasonable cost. Here’s a new resource putting considerable funding toward this goal.

This week’s pick: In effort to respond to President Obama’s call for bold ideas to revitalize our healthcare system, the new Healthcare X Prize Competition was announced by the X Prize Foundation, insurance company WellPoint, and the WellPoint Foundation. They are searching for a group that comes up with an “optimal health paradigm that provides the highest quality health care for the greatest number of people at the lowest possible cost”. The award will be at least $10 million.

This competition will give teams 18 months to design, model and submit plans for a health prototype that can affect the health and well being of individuals and communities. The top 5 performers will be matched to a test community for a three-year trial.

For more information, including additional details the competition, X PRIZE Foundation, WellPoint, or WellPoint Foundation, please visit: http://www.xprize.org/future-x-prizes/healthcare-x-prize/wellpoint

Posted by admin at 09:44 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

According to a definition by the Skoll Foundation, “social entrepreneurs pioneer innovative and systemic approaches for meeting the needs of the marginalized, the disadvantaged and the disenfranchised – populations that lack the financial means or political clout to achieve lasting benefit on their own.” It seems today the need for social entrepreneurs is greater than ever. Minnesota is a state that celebrates social entrepreneurship through this following opportunity.

This week’s pick: Applications for the 2009 Social Entrepreneurs’ Cup competition are now being accepted by Social Venture Partners Minnesota. The winner of this cup will receive $20,000 in a general operating support grant. They will also get 40 hours of technical assistance from Social Venture (which has a mission of promoting philanthropy and improving the lives of ‘at risk’ youth). Division Runner Up will receive a $5,000 general operating grant and twenty hours of consulting from Social Ventures Partners. Social Entrepreneur Division Honorable Mentions will receive a $1,500 general operating grant.

Here are the specific categories:

• Clean & Green
• Social Entrepreneur
• BioSciences
• High Tech
• General
• Student

The process is conducted in rounds with the first round accepting entries until May 22nd. For access to program details click here.

Posted by admin at 10:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

When I first moved to the Twin Cities I was drawn to the “walkability” of the area. I spent a lot of time exploring the sites on foot and marveled at how much time I could spend just trekking along the Mississippi River. The community has grown a lot and with more and more vehicles and people it is important to keep the sense of freedom you get by easily walking somewhere. I was happy to see the funder today thinking the way I do about the importance of getting there on your own two feet.

This week’s pick: The Highway Safety Research Center will grant funds to up to ten pilot communities/neighborhoods. The money will be used to “test the use of "A Resident's Guide for Creating Safe and Walkable Communities", a newly developed guidebook that details ways to improve pedestrian safety and the walkability of local neighborhoods.“

Those eligible to apply: government agencies, not for profits and neighborhood groups.

Applications that are selected will receive $2,000 and technical assistance from pedestrian safety experts. Deadline to apply is March 29, 2009. Go to the website for more details. NOTE: A pre-submission conference call will be held on Friday, May 1, 2009, from 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. eastern.

Posted by admin at 09:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

With so many people job hunting I thought it would be helpful to look for opportunities for skills development and support services. As I come across them I will be sure to post them on Grant Gazing. Here’s my first find.

This week’s pick: The Wal-Mart Foundation has a number of supports for underserved communities through their State Giving Program. One such support is for Workforce Development and Economic Opportunity. These grants “target job skill training and support services for unemployed and displaced workers.” The Foundation says they are looking to support programs from 501©3 nonprofits that have a long-lasting and positive impact.

You can apply though an online application form. Other areas of giving are educations, health & wellness and environmental sustainability. The application submission deadlines are: Spring Cycle: April 17 and Fall Cycle: September 18.
For information on all of the grants please click here.

Posted by admin at 09:33 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Those who know me know that my oldest son is in his 4th week with a cast up to his thigh in hopes of healing two broken leg bones. It is possible that he could still be in some kind of brace until the next school year starts. We have endured broken toes and even broken arms in our family but nothing has opened our eyes to the need for accessibility like the leg injury. My son uses crutches for short distances and a wheelchair in larger venues like school. Just learning to get him up and down steps and into the car was an education. Although what has happened to my son is unfortunate, and luckily temporary, it has taught my whole family a new level of respect for people who live every day with these kinds of challenges. I was happy to find today’s funding opportunity - and I hope it helps make life a little easier for some.

This week’s pick: The Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation (MEAF) is currently taking applications for a variety of National Grants to Support Young People with Disabilities. Grants are for areas such as:

Inclusiveness in after school math
Summer school programs
Internships
Leadership and more

U.S.-based 501©3 organizations are eligible. Preference is given to organizations that reflect collaborations among groups. The deadline to apply via concept paper is June 1, 2009. Click here for further grant and application details.

Posted by admin at 01:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Top ‘o’ the afternoon to ya on this St. Patrick’s week. ‘Tis a fine sunny day here in Minnesota and since we have been celebrating the ethnic heritage of some of our citizens by eating many green items I though it would be a wee bit special if the funder I am highlighting also celebrated good food and full stomachs. (Okay, I admit that introduction is a stretch but a little blarney seems appropriate).

This week’s pick: If you are working on projects addressing hunger in your community Quaker Oats is providing grant money to help. On St. Patrick’s Day the company announced a new Quaker Go Grants program which provides $500 grants to individuals with projects that:
• Are unique
• Fight hunger
• Impact a community or individuals

To be considered for each month's grants, submissions must be received by March 31, 2009; April 30, 2009; May 31, 2009; June 30, 2009; and July 31, 2009. As a very nice bonus to their giving, all applications not selected as winners will be considered in the next month's round of judging. To apply, click here.

Posted by admin at 12:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The Improve Group is once again in the midst of travelling Minnesota to conduct our review of Home and Community-Based Service Waivers for the MN Department of Human Services. One of the findings that come from this evaluation is how counties have come up with good communication and collaboration ideas with others who support the waiver constituency. Collaboration seems to be the key word for 2009 and my funder today is rewarding those organizations who improve health for others through inventive collaboration.

This week’s pick: Changemakers – “Designing for Better Health” collaborative competition is a catalyst for communities with innovative ideas on health that are “unique models of change, demonstrate impact on the target population they address, target a specific underserved community or the society at large, and that have a long-term plan for securing financial backing and community support.”

Three cash prizes of $5,000 will be awarded. Deadline to enter is April 1, 2009 and public, private and charitable organizations of all kinds may submit. For more details click here.

Posted by admin at 09:20 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

My 12 year old fell at school and broke two bones in his right leg and has had to stay home for several days. He will return to school, with assistance, next week. I tell you this because a week of being stuck inside is torture for a 12 year old. He has managed to pass time through his old friends the Wii and the Nintendo DS. Watching him use a small arsenal of video games to keep him entertained has kept entertainment software on my brain. My highlighted funder this week is a foundation connected to companies that produce video and computer games and they are looking to give our kids more than just high game scores.

This week’s pick: The Entertainment Software Association Foundation has nonprofit grants that fund projects for youth 7 to 18 years of age. Their grants are aimed at supporting “supporting positive programs and opportunities that make a difference in the quality of life, health and welfare of America’s youth.”

Nonprofits thinking of applying for grants must have a specific project or program that is or will be in two or more states in the United States. Areas of interest include:
o Skills & Personal Development
o General Health & Welfare
o Risk Behavior Prevention
o Education
o Multimedia arts/ technology related or applied

To apply, fill in the Foundation’s online application. Grant applications must be received by April 15 for projects to be implemented during the following calendar year.

Posted by admin at 03:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

When the boys were little I took them to a kids’ seminar on what to do to be “stranger safe.” I have tried to find repeated messages throughout their growing years to continue to instill wise choices. Recently, I went to a cyber-bullying and internet safety forum with my 12 year old. Here at the Improve Group we have conducted evaluations for several Safe Schools/Healthy Students grant sites. Child safety is important to my highlighted funder as well as they encourage educators to help spread the message.

This week’s pick: Honeywell and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children are teamed up for a grant contest called the Got 2B Safe! Awards. The Got 2B Safe program works to encourage the teaching of potentially life-saving personal safety skills to elementary children. The awards are intended for classroom teachers at schools (K-12) who have lesson plans emphasizing Got 2B Safe’s rules for personal safety. Five award winners will receive a $10,000 classroom makeover. Applications are due by March 23, 2009. For more information, click here.

FYI: Teachers may go to their site to download a Got 2B Safe Educational Kit for your classroom.

Posted by admin at 01:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

It’s been a busy week getting our February newsletter together so I apologize for Grant Gazing coming our so late in the week. Another part of my busy week was running between my sons two schools to assist with various programs and events. I am always struck by the colorful art in the hallways or the excitement of the school jazz band playing for the crowd. This access to artistic achievement and enjoyment is something we must never take for granted – my highlighted funder certainly feels that way too.

This week’s pick: The Challenge America: Reaching Every Community Grants from the National Endowment for the Arts would like to expand access to the arts to underserved populations. The NEA is offering grants of up to $10,000 each for professional arts programming and “projects that emphasize the potential of the arts in community development.”

Organizations may receive an expedited “fast track” grant in the following project areas:

• An arts event that will feature one or more guest artists
• The creation of professionally directed public art projects
• Civic design activities that involve the renovation, restoration, or adaptive reuse of cultural facilities or spaces
• The unified promotion of community-wide arts activities and resources

Applicants are encouraged to form partnerships with other organizations when applying. May 28, 2008 is the deadline to apply. Please go the NEA website for more application information.

Posted by admin at 01:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I spent last night at my sons Junior High as Parent Association Co-President for the 7th grade. We went over issues on internet safety and cyber-bullying and received proposal requests from teachers for funding needed for items and projects in their classrooms.
Concerns on important issues like education and health care are way up on the list of things our school addresses. I hope it is safe to say that we would all like healthy families with good opportunities for a great education. To make this possible we all need to get involved as individuals. The following couple of funders are getting involved by helping our kids get access to education.

This week’s picks: Through the Looking Glass (TLG) and its National Center for Parents with Disabilities and their Families have two new scholarship opportunities for students. To be eligible you must be:

1. A high school senior who is a graduate by the summer of 2009 and have at least one parent with a disability.
2. A college student currently enrolled in a college or university, 21 or younger as of March 16, 2009, and have at least one parent with a disability.

Five separate $1,000 awards are available for each of the two scholarship categories. Part of the application is an optional survey about young adult children of parents with disabilities. Applications must be completed and postmarked by March 16, 2009. For more information, visit the TLG Website.

Kohl’s Kid’s Who Care gives a scholarship award to over 2,000 children who are exemplary volunteers in their communities. This giving program from the Kohl’s Corporation grants $350,000 in scholarships and prizes. The volunteer efforts must have happened within the last 12 months to be eligible.

Nominations for youth volunteers ages 6 through 18 are excepted now through March 15, 2009. Grant winners will be announced in June. Click here to read the official rules for entering.

Posted by admin at 01:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

As a single parent I know how difficult it is to keep up with your child’s educational needs, and when you have more than one child, as I do, you multiply the difficulty factor. There is only one person to rely on to get the kids to and from school, to special events, to the library and to help them with their homework, etc. Single parents are usually working out of the home which adds another layer of responsibility and takes away from the time you wish you could spend with them helping them get ahead. I rely on a before and after school program to assist with the care and education of my youngest. My situation is shared by many, so I am sharing this funder who I have blogged about in a past Grant Gazing.

This week’s pick: Women Helping Others – The WHO Foundation is dedicated to:

• Encouraging women everywhere to help others through local community service.
• Supporting organizations dedicated to women, children and families in need.
• Supporting organizations dedicated to education and literacy.

One of the Foundation's funding categories is Education/Literacy grants to implement or expand literacy/education programs for low-income children and to support free after school organizations. To be eligible you must be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in the United States and Puerto Rico and preferably have an operating budget of less than $3 million. $5,000 is the maximum grant request. Applications need to be in by March 17, 2009, 5PM central. To get more details on this grant click here.

Posted by admin at 09:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Whenever possible I am focusing my grant gazing towards opportunities that will fit into the core areas of the national stimulus funding. I am looking for projects and initiatives that will effect economic growth and development for our communities. Today I am highlighting funding that improves neighborhoods and shows the sense of commitment to others that is so crucial for promoting positive change.

This week’s pick: Bank of America continues its Neighborhood Excellence Initiative which targets critical needs in local communities and works with local community leaders to direct funding for greater impact on:
• education
• community development
• arts and culture, and
• health and human services

Those who are awarded this funding will receive $200,000 in support over 2 years. To apply for this grant initiative please see the Bank of America website. Funding is limited to specific markets.

Posted by admin at 08:38 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

We have started a new year, and here at the Improve Group we are trying to start things off right. To see what I mean take a look at Liz Freeman’s New Year’s Changes on the Inside Groove blog. I have made it one of my personal pledges to be sure to pick up more trash on the streets than I have in the past. I want my sons to always see that example and learn to be good stewards of the land. This next unusual Grant Gazing is another organization’s way to motivate us into positive action by offering a prize. I hope you will all go for it and get creative out there.

This Week’s Pick: Just Do One is an advocacy organization motivating people to personal action to make the world a more livable place for everyone. To promote this “green” mission their group is offering a fun and helpful video contest where individual applicants can record themselves presenting a sustainable living action that they are doing. You can use a camcorder, digital camera or even your phone to record your entry and you many enter multiple times. All videos should be less than 3 minutes.

The winning tip or action will receive a $5,000 cash prize. You must be 13 or older to enter and your video needs to be submitted by midnight, March 1, 2009. To learn more or to upload your video entry, go to www.JustDoOne.org.

Posted by admin at 01:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

With the new year I thought I would go for a new look on Grant Gazing. Hope you like my friendly computer.

I found this next funding possibility fascinating and timely. Most of us have seen images of video messages sent from soldiers overseas or classrooms taught from remote places via the internet. Much of this is made possible by adapting new uses to wireless communications. In keeping pace with the current obsession with wireless applications here is a unique opportunity for those who are on the cutting-edge of using technology to assist in social issues.

This Week’s Pick: Vodaphone is a mobile telecommunications business serving a global community. Their company has established the Vodaphone Americas Foundation (VAF) offering a variety of grants to help strengthen families and support children around the world.

Their newest grant offering is their Wireless Innovation Challenge which is open to projects from universities and nonprofit organizations based in the United States.

Applications are accepted through February 2, 2009 and you must complete an eligibility questionnaire as the first step in the process. $100,000 up to $300,000 awards will be granted to applicants applying a multi-disciplinary approach to global issues using wireless related technology.

For this and other grants offered by VAF, visit the website.

Posted by admin at 10:14 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Once again the federal government is offering Safe Schools/Healthy Students (SS/HS) Program grants to school districts around the United States. This comprehensive grant brings local educational agencies (LEAs) an opportunity to implement an “integrated, comprehensive community-wide plan designed to create safe, respectful, and drug-free school environments and promote pro-social skills and healthy childhood development. Plans must focus activities, curricula, programs, and services in a manner that responds to the community's existing needs, gaps, or weaknesses.”

The Improve Group has extensive experience as an evaluator for Minnesota LEAs who have received the SS/HS grant. We have also assisted districts in writing the evaluation portion of their application. The following is al list of Minnesota schools districts that have all had SS/HS program evaluation collaborations with the Improve Group:

Climax-Shelly, Fisher, Greenbush Middle River, Norman County East, Norman County West, Oklee, Plummer, Red Lake Falls, Roseville, Spring Lake Park, Stephen-Argyle, Tri-County.

Plans submitted for this grant must address the 5 key elements:
1. Safe School Environments and Violence Prevention Activities.
2. Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Prevention Activities.
3. Student Behavioral, Social, and Emotional Supports.
4. Mental Health Services.
5. Early Childhood Social and Emotional Learning Programs.

Applications are available January 5, 2009 and the deadline for submission is March 4, 2009. Applicants who have not yet received a SS/HS grant will be given priority. For more detailed information on SS/HS click here. To download application go to:
http://www.ed.gov/fund/grant/apply/grantapps/index.html.

Posted by admin at 01:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I don’t think the following funding opportunity is going to need much explanation. Let’s just put this one in the category “preparing for a new year.”

This week’s pick: The FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority) Investor Education Foundation has a grant program to assist non-profits and researchers who “engage at-risk audiences such as seniors and first-time investors by offering them access to unbiased information about the markets and fundamental financial issues.” Projects of particular interest may include:

• using behavioral finance to improve saving and investing
• meeting the financial and investor education needs of underserved audiences
• creating new marketing and distribution channels for financial and investor education
• helping Americans manage their finances and investments in retirement

There are no set minimum or maximum number of grants that will be awarded. Start applications by submitting a three-page project concept for review. Projects of interest will be notified to submit a full proposal. The FINRA Foundation will hold conference calls to answer general questions about grant opportunities. Register in advance for the Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2:00 p.m. (EST) or the Thursday, Jan. 8, 11:00 a.m. (EST) call sessions by sending an email to finrafoundation@finra.org. To learn more about this opportunity click here.

Posted by admin at 03:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

It has become more difficult over the years to have access to many of the grant opportunities that are out there. Foundations and other grant giving organizations have change or tightened their guidelines with the changing fiscal environments. The funder I am highlighting today has put forward a unique way to gather information from organizations from which they might be interested in soliciting applications.

This week’s pick: The Edna McConnell Clark Foundation works to help low income, young people, ages 9 to 24, by assisting them in becoming independent and productive adults. They are seeking nonprofit organizations that provide services to this targeted group and will grant funds that will help these organizations develop and sustain their programs and increase their outreach in serving youth. Since the foundation does not accept proposals they have posted a Youth Organizations Survey on their website. Nonprofits can fill in and submit the survey and, based on their responses, may be contacted by the Foundation for closer examination.

Posted by admin at 03:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

When I watch the news and read books and magazines I am reminded of the global picture and the need to be conscious of what is happening to my neighbors around the world. It is very easy for each of us to get tunnel vision when we consider how difficult things are financially here in the United States. However, we are still a very rich and blessed country compared to the long-standing suffering that goes on in other parts of the world. I was very pleased to discover the following foundation that strives to ease pain and bring basic needs to children around the world.

This week’s pick: The Dorthea Haus Foundation grants funds to non-profit organizations in all parts of the world “to aid and assist in providing the basic needs of food, shelter, health and education to children, and to relieve the suffering of children with mental and physical handicaps through medical research or other means.”

The average grant size in 2007 was around $17,000 and there is a rolling deadline to apply. A phone call to the foundation or letter of inquiry should proceed an application for funding. Programs that serve vulnerable children who are sick, handicapped, orphaned injured or disfigured will be given preference. For additional information please click here.

Posted by admin at 09:26 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

For those of you about to head off to visit family and friends on this holiday weekend the Improve Group wishes you all safe and happy travels. In the spirit of thankful giving I am highlighting the following federal opportunity that may be of help to the many organizations that assist low income individuals and families.

This week’s pick: The Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Office of Community Services (OCS) is looking for applicants for the Assets for Independence (AFI) projects. “Grantees provide an array of supports and services to enable individuals and families with low incomes to become economically self-sufficient for the long-term. A primary feature of each AFI project is that project participants are given access to special matched savings accounts.” As a condition of their Federal AFI grant, grantees must provide non-Federal funds to support their AFI project in an amount at least equal to the Federal AFI grant amount.

There are 3 due dates for applications: Jan 15, March 25 and June 25, 2009. Applications are submitted electronically using www.grants.gov. 65 awards will be given out. To see the full announcement, click here.

Posted by admin at 01:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The Improve Group is currently in a reporting stage on our evaluation of the Performing Arts Workshop’s AEMDD grant work in the schools of San Francisco. Their emphasis for this grant is arts integration with special education classrooms and students. Teaching artists from “the Workshop” have been involved with General Education Classes with Inclusion (Special Education) Students and Special Day Classes (SDC). It has been very gratifying to observe the artists and students engaged in inclusive and beneficial learning activities. My pick for this week would like to celebrate those who are making inroads for inclusion of young people with disabilities.

This week’s pick: The Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation (MEAF) is honoring those who are embracing inclusion and offering the same opportunities to youth with or without disabilities. The MEAF Inclusion Champion Award is for those who are “helping to create a culture of inclusion within an organization or community or developing innovative strategies for inclusive programming in: school activities, after-school programs, community service, and leadership development.” Deadline to nominate individuals is December 1, 2008 and the maximum award amount is $1,000 for the charity of your choosing and a trophy for the nominated individual.. For more information on the nomination process please click here.

Posted by admin at 10:18 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I grew up in a smaller, manufacturing town in Wisconsin. We had American Motors, American Brass, Simmons Mattress and other companies that have not survived the financial times. One of the factors facing the manufacturing and engineering sector today is a lack of skilled labor. Not everyone feels the call to white collar occupations and people are talented in a million different ways.

My now-retired father is one of the most talented men I know and his background is in the car and manufacturing industries. He can build furniture, add rooms to a home and restore a classic car with the kind of ease that others run a staff meeting or write a work plan. I have always been very proud of him and I am proud of the following funders who are trying to open up the spectrum of future job options for our youth.

This week’s pick: The Fabricators & Manufacturers Association Foundation and the Nuts, Bolts and Thingamajigs Foundation want to help nonprofits and educational organizations to provide manufacturing career experiences for young people through overnight or day camps in the summer. The FMA is a charitable organization that promotes metal forming and fabricating technology in manufacturing. The Nuts, Bolts and Thingamajigs Foundation helps young people to develop needed manufacturing skills and has actor John Ratzenberger of Cheers fame as the Foundation founder and spokeperson.

Camps should have hands-on programs targeting youth between the ages of 12 and 16 and preference will be given to those serving minority populations. Applications for funding summer 2009 camps must be submitted by December 12, 2008. Grants rage from $2,500 to $5,000. For further info on applying, please click here.

Posted by admin at 04:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I can’t count the number of hours I have spent in libraries and what that has done for my education and my well-being. I am happy to say I am raising two sons who also love libraries and are very lucky to attend public schools that have great library facilities. Our office staff enjoys time in the library which is extremely important to the field of research and evaluation. One of our own Improve Group staff members is currently seeking a Masters degree in library and information science.

My funder today wants to help school libraries and serve students who come from lower economic backgrounds by awarding money for needed library resources.

This week’s pick: The National Education Association Foundation believes “public education is the gateway to opportunity.” To assist in providing public schools with the resources they need for quality education the Foundation offers the NEA’s Books Across America Library Books Awards. Fifty awards of $1,000 each will be made to purchase books and other reading materials for public school libraries.

Applicants must be public school librarians, teachers or education support professionals. Seventy percent of the students in applicant schools must be eligible for free or reduced lunch. The deadline to apply is November 20, 2008. Applications are online and submitted via email. Click here to learn more.

Posted by admin at 10:53 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

In the past month I have had the pleasure of conducting interviews on a 20-year arts education initiative in the State of South Carolina. I learned a great deal from those who have been involved in this ever-evolving and fully-engaged effort to integrate arts education so that every school child in South Carolina has the opportunity to experience and reap the benefits of what the arts disciplines have to offer. I have been particularly impressed with the management of this statewide initiative and the time talented individuals have put into making it a success.

One of the lessons I learned from their experience is the importance of getting the right people involved and impassioned about the work at hand. Everyone brings specific skills to the table. My funder this week is looking for skilled people to help in urban education settings through residencies in K-12 school districts.

This Week’s Pick: “The Broad Residency is an opportunity to use your education, business experience and passion to make a difference in a management career that truly counts.” The Broad Foundations offers two-year managerial placements in urban school districts and charter management organizations to have an impact in areas such as, new school openings, budgeting, operational efficiencies and human services.

Residents earn starting annual salaries of $85,000 to $95,000. Those with an advanced degree, four years of work experience, and who work in more than one area of business (marketing, strategic planning, budgeting, etc.) may apply. Having an ability to lead, strong problem solving skills and a real interest in urban education are desired. Interested candidates should submit a resume online at www.broadresidency.org.

Schedule to Apply:

• Resumes submitted by Dec 1
• Full applications by Dec 15
• Followed by phone interviews
• In person interviews by Feb/Mar
• Final interviews Apr
• Offers no later than May 29
• Residency begin Jul/Aug 09

Posted by admin at 04:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

One of the key findings of the Rand Corporation’s 2005 research on early childhood education was that “early childhood intervention programs have been shown to yield benefits in academic achievement, behavior, educational progression and attainment, delinquency and crime, and labor market success, among other domains.” (See http://www.rand.org/pubs/research_briefs/RB9145/index1.html). This plus many, many other early ed research projects support the need for enriching early childhood opportunities for children. The funder I am looking at today feels the same way.

This Week’s Pick: The A.L. Mailman Foundation offers the Mailman Family Foundation Grants “to promote the building of sustainable systems that provide access to high quality early learning experiences for all children.” Their funding priorities are:

• System-wide change
• Creating quality curriculum tools
• Providing families, teacher and caregivers knowledge and support to nurture and inform children

An application to the Foundation begins with a letter of inquiry - with the next deadline of December 1, 2008. Final submissions are by invitation only. Interested organizations must be 501©3 nonprofits with a national reach or a scope that entails more than one state. Typical grants amounts are in the $25,000 to $35,000 range. For more information and application guidelines, click here.

Posted by admin at 09:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

As I continue to pay on a multitude of health care bills for my oldest son’s operations I feel immensely lucky to have an employer who offers health insurance to help ease some of the huge financial burden these bills pose. I know that my retired parents do not have health insurance. I worry about them and the thousands of others who are not adequately covered. Today’s funder has grants to help nonprofits serve this underserved population.

This Week’s Pick: McKesson International is a health care pharmaceutical and IT software company. Every year the McKesson Foundation grants $5 million in support of non-profits in the communities where they have an employee presence. The Foundation primarily funds direct health care services for uninsured and underinsured children for specific projects and programs, but general operating support will be considered in some circumstances.

Online applications for the $5,000 to $50,000 grants are accepted throughout the year and decided upon on at the end of the calendar year with distributions made the following March.

501©3 nonprofits in the following communities are eligible to apply:

Atlanta, GA
Broomfield, CO
Canada
Carrollton, TX
Charlotte, NC
Chicago, IL
Delran/Philadelphia
Dubuque, IA
Hadley, MA
Hartford, CT
Lakeland/Orlando, FL Livonia, MI
Los Angeles, CA
Memphis, TN
Newton, MA
Pittsburgh, PA
Richmond, VA
San Francisco, CA
Scottsdale, AZ
Springfield, MO
Twin Cities, MN

Posted by admin at 11:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I conduct interviews for the Improve Group and I speak with people from all walks of life. Just recently, I have had the privilege of speaking to a wide constutuency of community members - small social service non-profits, deans of colleges, foundations officials, teachers, state representatives, and minority group organizers. Everyone relays their economic concerns about the impact shrinkng budgets have on services. With the amount of unease around our country’s financial situation, whenever possible, I will do my best to find opportunities for sustainability in my upcoming Grant Gazings.

This Weeks’ Pick: The Archibald Bush Foundation is devoted to community involvement in problem solving by providing many avenues for funding. The opportunity I want to highlight today supports mid-sized arts organizations through the Foundation’s Regional Arts Development Program II (RADPII).

“The intention is to fund successful applicants for a period of 10 years in a series of separate grants.” Use of this grant money should emphasize organizational long-range planning, improvement and accountability.

Minnesota, North and South Dakota humanities and arts organizations with annual operating budgets larger than $250,000 but no greater than $5 million for the last three fiscal years are eligible to apply. Deadline for applications is November 17, 2008 at 5:00 pm.

Posted by admin at 12:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

A training opportunity for those seeking funds for their organization.

Access Philanthropy is offering workshops on grant writing and prospect research for new and experienced development staff. From October 2008 through February 2009 the following topics will be covered:

• Grant Writing and Prospecting
• Corporate Funders - Minnesota Based and Outstate
• On-Line Grant Applications
• Grant Writing and Prospecting for Board Members and Others
• Working with Family Foundations
• Nooks-n-Crannies Funders

Fees for each session are $65. Go to www.accessphilanthropy.com for more details on the workshops and how to register.

Posted by admin at 08:51 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Each year my younger son’s grade school has a great program called Theaters of Learning. In this program, teachers and community members are allowed to bring their unique talents to teach in the school and students are given the opportunity to choose their own elementary-level elective twice a year. Topics are widely varied and applied by grade level. Students can chose from interesting subjects like learning about the Hmong culture, to an in-depth look at specific authors, to healthy eating and exercise, to filmmaking. It is a great program and I think it deserves more recognition than it gets. If you have a special school program out there and want to find some support for creating a unique school experience, take a look at this week’s funder.

This Week’s Pick: The ING global financial service company funds innovative classroom projects through the ING Unsung Heroes program.

Public or private K-12 educators in the United States are eligible to apply. 100 finalists will each receive a $2,000 award to further their education project within the school or school system. From these 100 finalists first, second and third place awards will be given out of $25,000, $10,000 and $5,000, respectively.

Questions regarding the program should be addressed to Scholarship America at ing@scholarshipamerica.org. Application information for the 2009 school year can be found by clicking here. Applications must be postmarked by April 30, 2009.

Posted by admin at 03:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

My earlier Grant Gazings have talked about the love of literature among our staff here at the Improve Group. This type of respect for the written word often begins at home when we are children. We see our parents’ example or we have an inspiring teacher that brings us the joy of reading. Sometimes it is the work of one special book or an exciting library storybook hour that helps grab our interest. This exposure to reading and literacy skills is essential to produce upcoming readers and writers, and in creating an educated society. The funders today want to encourage our youth to involve themselves in a quest to honor and expand literacy in our country.

This Week’s Pick: Youth Service America (YSA) in collaboration with the National Endowment for the Arts awards funds for student-lead projects through their Youth Leaders for Literacy initiative. This program started in 2001 to “encourage and celebrate literacy service of our nation's young people, and to provide them with resources to conduct reading-related activities that benefit others.”

Projects are evaluated by their ability to show leadership, provide youth involvement, show the ability to administer the grant and provide outcomes (an evaluation report is required from those who are selected). Twenty grants of $500 are awarded. Applicants 21 years of age or younger may apply and this year’s deadline is October 30, 2008. To get more information click here.

FYI: The NEA's Read Across America Day starts March 2, 2009 and concludes on Global Youth Service Day 2009 on April 24-26, 2009

Posted by admin at 12:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

If you are a parent, like many of us here at the Improve Group, you may have already received a form to fill out for a school field trip. I have. The first one I received this year asked for a $15.00 donation from the parents. With rising gas prices for transportation it is no wonder schools need help providing quality out-of-school education experiences for their students. Here’s a little help from today’s highlighted funder.

This week’s pick: Minnesota’s own Target Foundation is accepting requests for their Target Field Trip Grants program from US teacher, educators, principals, paraprofessionals or classified staff. Field trip grants are intended to “fund trips to art museums, cultural events, civic experiences, and environmental sites”.

Those interested may submit their applications electronically by November 1, 2008. Grant maximum is $800. Target plans to award up to 5,000 grants to schools across the US. For more information, click here to go to the Target website. Be sure to check out the many other community and education grants offered by Target.

Clip art licensed from the Clip Art Gallery on DiscoverySchool.com

Posted by admin at 09:29 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Whether you travel in your own town, state, country or around the world, you are bound to come across special places that are sacred to people. I have been lucky enough to do a lot of traveling in my life and I am particularly touched by places like Crazy Horse Memorial in South Dakota or the Indian Mounds Park in Saint Paul, MN. You can feel the spirit and history of the people when you visit a spots like Redwood National Park, Pipestone Monument, or Pearl Harbor. These important places are too numerous to mention, but I will say that the loss of any one of them would be a loss to humanity. My funder today has a mission to support issues of residency and status of American Indian lands and that includes preservation of the places they hold as hallowed.

This week’s pick: The Indian Land Tenure Foundation offers a unique grant opportunity to preserve, educate about, and protect places that are sacred to Native American people. Their RFP for the Protection of Sacred Sites “seeks projects that convey the importance of ties between Indian culture and land to as many people as possible.” Important to this funder is giving native tribes the resources to take action to strengthen Indian culture and land management.

Past grants amounts have ranged between $20,000 and $70,000. The deadline is October 16, 2008 for tribes to submit proposals on projects that will identify, secure and protect sacred land. The application form and requirements can be found by clicking here.

Posted by admin at 02:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The Improve Group is currently working with the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota on a strategic planning initiative. I am impressed when I meet with the bright, dedicated people who work there and those that volunteer their time to help immigrant populations in Minnesota. The funder I am highlighting today wants to be sure there is an understanding of the immigrant struggle and their place in the community.

This week’s pick: The American Immigrant Law Foundation (AILF) provides a Teacher Grant Program to fund creative classroom programs that involve education on issues of immigration and multiculturalism. “The Foundation seeks to fund activities that are innovative and support AILF's mission of promoting the benefits of immigrants to our nation.”

Grants between $100 and $500 will be given to K-12 educators teaching in public or private primary, intermediate, and secondary-level schools. Special consideration will be given to applications on classroom-based programs containing the following:

• Innovative use of technology
• Underrepresented minorities
• Community outreach and partnerships with community-based organizations
• Math and science

The deadline to respond is November 28, 2008 and more information can be found by clicking here.

Posted by admin at 11:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Through our work at the Improve Group we have been very fortunate to meet and work with a great many dedicated and involved educators. Professional development, networking opportunities, and finding the time and funds to be part of programs that increase their abilities and effectiveness as teachers are very important to them. The following grant brings funding to schools to help develop educator skills.

This week’s pick: the Minnesota Office of Higher Education administers the funding for the competitive Federal Higher Education Improving Teacher Quality Program. This funding supports in-service programs affecting K-12 educators in the subject areas of science, economics, mathematics, geography, history or civics/government.

Requests must come from partnerships composed of “an accredited Minnesota private or public higher education institution and the division of the institution that prepares teachers, a school of arts and sciences within the higher education institution, and a high need Local Education Agency (school district).”

Total Minnesota support available for activities for 2009-2010 is $1,000,533. Proposals are due by 4:30 p.m., Monday, November 17, 2008. For additional information on this opportunity, click here.

Posted by admin at 01:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I just took a Dream Weaver 8 class from a woman who told me she has been in computer education since the early 80’s. I was impressed. With the passing of Randy Pausch I have been even more aware of the great things that have been accomplished through education and collaborations in the technology field. His contribution to merging the artistic and technological sides in computer science has left some great tools and opened doors for all youth to get excited about computer programming and the virtual world. For those of you who want to learn more about this work, check out the Alice Project for high schools and colleges, and Storytelling Alice for middle school youth. My pick this week is a nod to Professor Pausch because it highlights fellowships merging the arts and technology.

This week’s pick: Artists on the Verge (AOV), a new fellowship program of The Jerome Foundation, Northern Lights and Forecast Public Art, who have recently announced this “new two-track fellowship and mentoring program for emerging Minnesota-based artists working experimentally at the intersection of technology, with a focus on practices that are social, collaborative, and/or participatory.” The two fellowships are as follows:

1. The AOV program looks to support emerging Minnesota artists that are producing exciting, experimental work. Commissions of $6,000 each will be awarded to three selected artists. Projects forms might include:
• broadcast; citizen science;
• demo scene; DIY practices;
• gaming;
• hypertext;
• immersive environments;
• interactive art;
• interactive television;
• Internet art;
• mixed media;
• mobile devices;
• pod-casting;
• responsive architecture; virtual worlds; and,
• Web 2.0.

2. The AOV Mentorship Program will select three artists to receive $4,000 each with an additional $2,000 each available for technical assistance.

Applicants must be Minnesota residents and emerging artists. The deadline to submit an application is September 8, 2008. The application and guidelines can be accessed through the Northern Lights website.

Posted by admin at 10:59 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I think we all admire an organization that turns the world upside down by the energy they put toward doing good for others. I am awed by a great lady who runs a grief and loss group through a local church. She and the volunteers for the group go far beyond the call in assisting the families who attend the meetings. Non-profit organizations are filled with dedicated people and could not function nearly as well without this devotion and assistance. The funder selected for today recognizes the importance of those who strive to help others.

Today’s pick: This grant opportunity comes from the Reader’s Digest Foundation. “Every month for ten months, Reader’s Digest (RD) will choose one individual whose story of giving back serves as an inspiration to others.” The Make It Matter initiative is collecting stories about individuals who have inspired others by their ability to give back to the world around them. Reader’s Digest will donate $100,000 to a charity in the name of each person whose story is chosen for publication in the magazine. The deadline to submit entries is January 9, 2009. Articles will appear in a new Make it Matter column starting in April 2009.

Posted by admin at 09:48 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

(This is my birthday Grant Gazing and I am always pleased to see another birthday and celebrate life – I hope you are too).

I was driving back from Sioux Falls, South Dakota last weekend when I got caught in a terrible storm on the notorious Interstate 90. If you are not familiar with it, picture Minnesota’s own version of the Bermuda Triangle. The weather for this trip was fine until I hit I90 and encountered zero visibility with rain and lightening. I edged my way off the road and headed south for a while to escape the treacherous driving. It seems our entire spring and summer have been filled with bad storms and so many people have had heart-breaking consequences because of them. I am hoping the funder I am highlighting today can bring relief to some.

This week’s pick: The Alliant Energy Foundation is offering flood grants to non-profit organizations in their Rebuilding Our Communities Grant Program. Alliant has a large wind electric system project here in Minnesota. Their foundation’s grant program will “provide unrestricted grants in the amount of $5,000, $10,000, $15,000 or $20,000 to organizations for increased operating and other expenses incurred as a direct result of the recent flooding.”

Grant applications from 501©3 organizations must be submitted by October 1, 2008. If you are eligible, a determination will be made within 14 days of submission. Those needing to re-establish essential community services will be given priority.

Posted by admin at 11:13 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The Improve Group team members conducting the DHS Waiver Reviews are once again off visiting counties far and wide here in Minnesota. The smallest towns are always favorites with our staff. We enjoy sampling the local cuisine and meeting the good folks that work to keep rural Minnesotans healthy. Unfortunately, the more remote the location, the harder it can be to get the needed services for the people in their population. Lack of availability of providers and the distance they must travel can be a big factor in scarce resources. My choice for Grant Gazing today is an opportunity from the federal government to assist rural health communities.

This week’s pick: The Rural Health Care Services Outreach Grant Program from the federal Office of Rural Health Policy.

“This program encourages the development of new and innovative health care delivery systems in rural communities that lack essential care services. The emphasis of the grant program is on service delivery through collaboration, requiring the grantee to form a consortium with at least two additional partners.”

Total funding for all projects granted is $11,000,000. The grant application and further requirements can be accessed through Grants.gov by CDFA #93.912. Projects funding is for 3 years with an award date of May 1, 2009.

Keep in mind - federal grants take a good lead time to prepare so anyone who might be interested should starts planning their collaboration right away. The application deadline is October 16, 2008.

Posted by admin at 12:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

(NOTE: My vacation and the summer holiday have me a week behind so I will post two Grant Gazings this week.)

My children and I were very fortunate to spend the 4th of July with my folks. My dad is a Korean War Veteran and he’s expressed what it cost him to be a part of that conflict. He is one of my personal heroes. Since his tour happened before I was born, I didn’t have to feel the fear and separation a child has for a parent away from home while serving their country. I do currently have relatives in the army, air force and marines and I know the worry that is part of the families’ daily lives. Our next funder tries to keep the child in childhood for military families.

This week’s pick: Our Military Kids, founded in 2004, exists to support children whose parents are deployed in U.S. military service. The type of activities that may receive grants “ensure that the children have access to activities and support that help the children better cope with challenges arising during a parent's deployment or injury recovery.”

Eligible activities include:
Youth Sports Programs
Fine Arts Programs
Tutoring Programs
Miscellaneous Other

There are two separate applications; one for the Air Force Reserve or National Guard, and one for the Army National Guard, Army Reserve, Navy Reserve, Marine Reserve and Coast Guard Reserve. Links for these can be found here. No grant request or award can exceed $500. Family income is not a consideration when applying for a grant and specific documentation is needed to complete the submission process.

Posted by admin at 12:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The 4th of July is almost upon us and the boys and I will be taking the annual summer trip home to Wisconsin to be with the family which includes: grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and the extended group we aren’t quite sure how we are related to, but consider to be family anyway. I have always felt most fortunate to have a close-knit family and it is one thing I wish everyone had. In the spirit of July unity, I present a very patriotic group that is working to assist children all acorss our country.

This week’s pick: The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation has a unique philanthropic priority – “to provide other nonprofit organizations with the means to educate the public about the special needs of children across this nation.” You must be a non-profit with the potential for helping American children to be eligible to apply.

The Foundation prefers to grant to applicants who can affect the welfare of children in a large geographical area. Grants amounts in 2007 ranged from $5,000 to $64,000. Click here to access more information on the submission process and to connect to the online application. Deadline for applications for the next granting round is July 15, 2008.

Posted by admin at 11:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

GRANT GAZING 6/17/08 by Susan Murphy

As is the case with many working parents, my children spend time in a child care facility. I am blessed by having a great place for my boys to spend their summer and before and after schools time. The head of our center (Helen) does a phenomenal job teaching and encouraging all the ages of children who attend. It is hard for parents to leave their children in the hands of others, so knowing that they are well taken care of makes a world of difference to those of us who cannot stay at home. My funding choice today honors those care-givers who help our kids grown in a safe and loving environment.

This week’s pick: The Terri Lynne Lykoff Foundation’s – Children’s Tylenol National Child Care Teacher Awards. This foundation gives fifty awards across the country to dedicated, quality child care providers. Part of the application process requires submitting a project idea that will benefit their child care environment. Award recipients will get between $500 and $1,000 for their own personal use and another $500 to implement their proposed project. Of the top ten recipients, one person will be chosen to receive the Helen Marks Award which comes with an additional $1,000 shopping spree.

The deadline to apply is December 5, 2008 . Complete eligibility requirements and the application form can be found at the Foundation website.

Posted by admin at 11:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Being a woman (and once a girl), I have a soft spot for opportunities that assist women and girls and promote their new ideas and the projects they develop into. The Improve Group was one woman’s idea that developed into a great organization. It is exciting to see where a strong spark of interest and some support will bring you.

This week’s pick: If your project is led by and benefitting women and girls, the Open Meadows Foundation might be the funder for you. This grant-making organization gives funding up to $2,000 to small, nonprofits (or those with a tax-exempt sponsor) for projects that are designed and implemented by women and girls. Start-up organizations and those who have not received the Foundation’s funding in the past are encouraged to apply. The next due date for application submissions is August 15, 2008. More information can be found by clicking here. While you are at their website, check out the six additional special funds they offer.

Posted by admin at 01:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Once the weather shaped up the animal life appeared in abundance. Our apartment parking lot had a gaggle wild turkeys running around in it and there have been spottings of everything from owls to hedgehogs. Animals are so enriching to our lives. Almost everyone on the Improve Group staff has a pet and we all appreciate the comfort they bring. Some animals do far more than that. My neighbor trains guide dogs and it is amazing to see what these canines can accomplish. My grant today is a nod to our furry friends.

This week’s pick: Planet Dog Foundation promotes and financially supports 501©3 non-profit and their programs such as those addressing:

• service dogs
• therapy dogs
• animal assisted therapy
• search and rescue dogs
• police, fire, military dogs
• other innovative canine service programs

Grants range between $5,000 and $10,000. Letters of Intent must be received via mail or email by August 1, 2008 for the fall funding cycle.

Posted by admin at 12:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

When I was a teen my family friends used to throw Mary Kay Cosmetics parties. Everything came in the color pink and the best part was hearing the story of Mary Kay Ash who found her life’s work by establishing her own direct sales business with $5,000 and the help of her son. Not only had she never used animal testing with her products, but her company won an award from the United Nations Environmental Program for leadership in environmental policies within the cosmetic industry. However, one of her best legacies has been her support of women and the quality of life they lead.

This week’s pick: The Mary Kay Ash Charitable Foundation (MKACF), founded in 1996 by Mary Kay Ash, the late head of Mary Kay Cosmetics, brings support to women who lack opportunity and financial resources. Currently applications for the 2008 Shelter Grant Program are being accepted. The Foundation awards $20,000 grants to 150 women’s shelters across the United States. Among the 2007 grantees were shelters in Saint Paul, Wilmar and Red Wing, Minnesota.

Monies received must be used for the operating budget of the shelter with the only exception being for staff travel. Submissions are due by Monday, June 30, 2008. For the Shelter Grant application, click here.

Other areas of interest that are funded through the Ash Foundation are cancer research and violence prevention for women.

Posted by admin at 11:25 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I hinted at it in my last blog and I am happy to say it happened. Minnesota has actually seen good weather. I was even able to have an outdoor birthday party for my oldest with 10 children ranging in age from 7 to 13. Thank goodness they didn’t all have to pile into our place for long. With the warm weather and sunlight comes another concern, however, and that is skin protection. We are all pulling out the bottles of SPF 15 and up and trying to keep our families safe from damaging rays. I found a very unique grant opportunity this week that will provide children with a nice place out of the sun when they need it.

This week’s pick: The American Academy of Dermatology’s (Academy) Shade Structure Program makes grants for the purchase of permanent equipment to provide shade from the sun’s ultraviolet rays in outdoor areas. “The Academy receives support for this program from Johnson & Johnson Consumer Products Company.”

Grant awards are $2,000 each and grantees are also given a sign by the Academy to place near their shade structure which promotes the importance of sun safety. You must be a 501(c)(3) organizations that serves children and teenagers, ages 18 and younger to be eligible. Those applying will need a member dermatologist of the Academy to sponsor the application and send a letter of support. Their website provides a locator for dermatologists. Click here for application download.

Posted by admin at 09:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I am skeptical, but hope springs eternal that we may be seeing the first signs of Spring here in Minnesota. I want this to be so, because cabin fever has hit hard in our household. My kids and I are dying to bike. There are so many beautiful places to take a bike ride in our area and we all need the fresh air and exercise after the never-ending winter. This Grant Gazing is for everyone who loves the bicycling experience and appreciates the good things that come from leaving the car at home.

This week’s pick: The Bikes Belong Grants Program of the Bikes Belong Coalition. The Coalition “welcomes grant applications from organizations and agencies within the United States that are committed to putting more people on bicycles more often.” Possible projects include bike trails, lanes, routes, Mountain Bike Areas and BMX facilities. The grant application areas are facilities and advocacy projects.

Bikes Belong aims their grants at nonprofits that support bicycle advocacy and public agencies and departments with this same goal. Groups that encourage support and growth of bicycling can receive grants that generally range from $5,000 to $10,000. Grant rounds are in cycles through the year and the next three are May 26, August 25 and November 24, 2008. Submission is through online application.

Posted by admin at 08:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The Improve Group’s work for the Minnesota Department of Human Services has given us insight into the intricate process of accurate, up-to-date health records about program participants. Providers and health departments have a multitude of details to track to help ensure the best care for individuals. The opportunities I am highlighting today assist in the efforts to maintain valid health care recording systems.

This week’s pick: The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is offering an Electronic Health Record System Revolving Loan Program to community clinics, rural hospitals and physician clinics in towns of less than 50,000 and nursing facilities and other health care providers. These loans are at no interest for six-years and will “assist in financing the installation or support of interoperable health record systems.” Those interested in applying need to submit the online pre-application form describing your project and providing preliminary budgeting information. Grants are made on a first come-first served basis.

MDH is also offering Electronic Health Record Grants for readiness assessment ($50,000) and implementation ($750,000). Applications are available July 14, 2008 with submissions due September 8th. Contact Anne Schloegel for information on either of these opportunities at:
Anne.Schloegel@health.state.mn.us.

Posted by admin at 10:16 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

As a young girl I was crazy about Barbie Dolls. I still have them stashed in my parents’ attic. I gave my imagination quite a workout while playing with those toys. To me, Mattel was a very magic company and I owe it a lot of happy hours in my youth. It is no wonder Mattel has continued to make kids happy by providing grants to United States organizations that benefit children.

This week’s pick: Mattel (http://www.mattel.com) and the Mattel Children's Foundation have a domestic grant program that directly supports children. To be eligible, organizations must be a child-serving 501 © 3 non-profit impacting children in need. Main areas of concentration are:

• Learning
• Health
• Girl Empowerment

Applications for program and operating support will be considered. Awards range from $5,000 to $25,000 and the deadline for this grant is July 15, 2008. To see the criteria and application form visit the Mattel web site.

Posted by admin at 08:03 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The Improve Group treasures its relationship with the arts community. Among the staff who work here, some of us are performers; some are strictly audience members; but all of us appreciate the gifts the arts bring to our lives. Just this month Marian will be performing in a play, Leah’s daughter was in a mermaid in a youth performance and my youngest son and I attended his first big, professional theater production in downtown Minneapolis. We are fortunate that our state is rich with cultural, artistic venues. My pick this week is an opportunity to share our arts/culture and make positive connections to what inspires people in other countries.

This week’s pick: The Cultural Programs Division of the Office of Citizen Exchanges, in the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) is presenting the 2008 Arts Exchanges on International Issues Program, an “open competition for grants to implement programs that utilize the arts to engage civil society - particularly youth and diverse and underserved populations - and that foster linkages and build partnerships between U.S. and overseas non-profit arts and cultural organizations, and local communities.” (Funding Opportunity Number: ECA/PE/C/CU-08-43)

ECA is particularly interested in projects in: Bolivia, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, Guatemala, Peru and Nicaragua.
Projects should be aimed at opening dialogues, countering negative perceptions, developing leadership and professionalism and involve key international arts and/or cultural issues. Grants will range between $200,000 and $600,000. The application must be submitted by May 22nd through Grants.gov.

Among those eligible to apply are:
• Public and State controlled institutions of higher education
• Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education
• Private institutions of higher education

Please note there are two specific project themes for which you can apply. Click masks to learn more:

Posted by admin at 10:17 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

You can do it as two,
You can gather a crew,
You may do what you can,
If you just have a plan.

It will help out the air, water, wildlife and earth,
It will show Mother Nature you know what she’s worth.

(I love Dr. Seuss and I am so glad his writing is still getting kids excited about doing something good for the environment).

This week’s pick: Dr. Seuss Enterprises and Youth Venture in a partnership with Earth Island Institute are offering The Lorax Challenge. The Lorax, as most people know, is a wonderful character created by Dr. Seuss to help warn the world of the dangers of over-industrialization and misuse of natural resources.

This opportunity asks people ages 12 to 20 to submit action plans for earth-saving ideas. To be eligible for the Lorax Grant “a venture team must be youth-created, -led, and -managed; be community-benefiting; be structured as a lasting organization; involve a strong team with clear, attainable goals and budget and the commitment to lead their venture; and have at least one "Ally" — a supportive adult who guides and encourages the team.”

You can submit your application online and teams that are chosen will receive up to $1,000 each to make their dreams a reality. Five grand prize (high school-age) winners will be given a trip to the University of Florida for a weekend of fun and learning.

Deadline for submission, May 31, two-oh-oh-eight,
So get your mind moving, be fast don’t be late!
You’ll help save something wonderful from a very bad fate,
And best thing of all, it will make you feel great!

(My apologies to Theodor Geisel).

Posted by admin at 09:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Today I have a very worthy federal grant opportunity which is aimed at increasing employment for people living with disabilities. Whether it is for you, family members or friends it is imperative that anyone who has challenges in their lives also has equal opportunities to succeed.

This week’s pick: The Projects with Industry Program (PWI) through the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitation Services, asks private industry to partner with organizations in expanding competitive work opportunities for those with disabilities. A high priority will be given to applicants from faith-based and community organizations.

Awards range from $250,000 to $350,000. Those who are granted funds will need to establish a Business Advisory Council, identify jobs and the skills needed to perform them and develop training, placement and support programs for the target community. Deadline to submit an application is May 27th. More on this grant can be found by clicking here.

Posted by admin at 02:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I was gazing through the Federal grants today and it struck me how much evaluation continues to grow in importance as an integral part of the proposal process. With fewer government dollars being spread among an increasing need for services and assistance, the requirement for accountability grows. It is important to make the case for how well your organization will track the use of the funds long before a contract is ever struck. The following is a perfect example of a request asking for evaluation planning from the start in order to best qualify for the grant.

This week’s pick: The Department of Health and Human Services is granting funds for the 2008 Adolescent Family Life (AFL) Demonstration Program (CDFA #93995 and Funding Opportunity # PA-APH-08-021). “These grants are for projects to develop, implement and evaluate a multi-site primary abstinence education program targeting youth ages 12-18, as compared with a multi-site “enriched” program model.” Any public, private or nonprofit organization is eligible to apply and successful applicants will dedicate 20-25% of the Federal portion of the budget for evaluation activities. The award floor is $600,000 with a ceiling of $800,000. Funds are available for 4-5 projects.

The electronic grant application must be submitted by 11:00 am Eastern Time on June 11, 2008; mailed applications by 5:00 pm the same day. The Improve Group would be interested in providing evlaution services and working with organizations interested in applying. We are available to assist in writing the evaluation portion of the grant application. For more information on this grant, click here.

Posted by admin at 04:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Monday morning I put my 11 year old on a Charter bus with 80 of his 6th grade classmates to start an exciting week-long learning trip to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. After our rough holidays of hospitals and surgeries we are very fortunate that he was able to go. I am excited for the marvels he will see and the important lessons he will learn such as, care of the environment and respect for nature. It is just these types of experiences that help our youth understand how important it is to care for the world around them. The following funder is giving young people the chance to get involved and show what they can do with the knowledge they’ve gained about the world they are stewards of.

This week’s pick: Burton Snowboards has a collaboration with Girl Overboard author Justina Chen Headley and Youth Venture. This group is offering the Go Overboard Challenge Grant Program for U. S. youth ages 12 to 20. They are challenging young people to bring the passion they feel for causes like the environment, global health or social and economic causes and to spearhead projects that will address problems in these areas.

The criteria is to create a team to address the work you would like to see done and then submit an application to be eligible for challenge grants of up to $1,000 each. Youth Venture staff can be contacted for help with the application. Submissions are accepted on a rolling basis until May 1, 2008. To learn more click here.

Posted by admin at 09:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I have a good friend who is a single mom and her thirteen year old son is autistic. He is the ideal of what great things will happen when someone applies the attention, support, love and optimism that is needed when health and quality of life is a challenge. She amazes me in her devotion and her strength of character in all that she does to help her son be happy, strong and go after his dreams. I know he is going to do great things.

Another reminder of what it takes to serve others dealing with all manner of health conditions and bring dignity and hope is found in our work for the Minnesota Department of Human Services Waiver Review project. We talk to staff around our state that work very hard to make sure communities have the care and resources they need.

My pick for today is one that works to recognize and reward those who are quietly remarkable in the way they help others in their role as caregivers.

This week’s pick: The Caring Award for individuals is presented by The Caring Institute, a nonprofit organization that was founded in 1985 “to honor and promote the values of caring, integrity, and public service.” The Institute would like to recognize those who devote their lives to helping out the disadvantaged, poor, disabled and dying. Nominations for anyone ages 9 to 99 can be sent in before September 28, 2008. There is an online or printable form to use. A narrative on why this person is a noteworthy role model needs to be at least 500 words long. Letters of recommendation should also be included. Young adults who receive this award will be granted funds for college tuition and all recipients are flown to Washington D.C. for a special ceremony.

Posted by admin at 12:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

As promised, here is the second Grant Gazing for this week. I just finished attending the Minnesota Evaluation Studies Institute (MESI) Conference which had a global theme and reminded us that we are one planet, and people have connections that must be considered in all the work we do. I have been thinking about this message a great deal and I found it appropriate to offer a developing opportunity with a world view in this week’s blog.

This week’s pick: This initiative is still in formation but I felt it was of such importance I wanted to highlight it and make it a program to keep watch for. This month the Goldman Sachs Group, a NYSE investment company of New York, announced a global initiative to provide women in underserved and developing countries with a business management education. This effort, called 10,000 Women is aimed at opening doors for women around the world to be managers and business owners.

They are currently creating “partnerships between universities in the U.S. and Europe and business schools in emerging and developing economies to improve the quality and capacity of business education.” Goldman Sachs is committing $100 million to this initiative. Along with support through flexible short-term educational programs a select number of MBA and BA degrees will be granted. Watch for upcoming developments at the Goldman Sachs website.

Posted by admin at 09:48 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

(My apologies - I was out at a conference last week so my Grant Gazings are a week behind. To make up for this I will post twice this week).

If you are a parent and you are anything like me you may worry about things long before it is necessary. Or maybe it wasn’t necessary at all. I look at my two young sons with their polar opposite personalities and I consider how those personalities will play into their teenage lives. One of my biggest worries comes out in - how they will handle being responsible drivers in the future? This one can keep me up at night. Although my oldest is still 11 I am already looking for articles, data and promising practices to improve outcomes for teen drivers: this is how I found today’s opportunity. I was even more pleased to see that one of the partners presenting this project, the National Youth Leadership Council, is a client of the Improve Group.

This week’s pick: State Farm and the National Youth Leadership Council (NYLC) are collaborating on Project Ignition for U.S. public school students enrolled in grades 9-12. This grant program aims to improve teen driver safety through public awareness and service-learning projects.

Twenty-five semi finalists and ten finalists will receive $2,000 and $5,000 awards, respectively. Applications are due by May 16, 2008 and more information can be accessed here. Oh and for those of you "mature" enough to remember the old Hill Street Blues television series, "Be careful out there."

Posted by admin at 10:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The following funding opportunity has a short deadline but it was important to share it for those who qualify. Like so many of you out there, I have friends and family in the military. I am proud of them and wish them continued health in their efforts. I also have love and concern for those friends and family left behind when they are stationed away from home. The following group wants to bring some recognition to military families and their personal sacrifice.

This week’s pick: The National Military Family Association has a mission that supports families from all seven branches of the U.S. military and part of that support is to show their appreciation through programs granting awards. The Joanne Holbrook Patton Military Spouse Scholarships are given to military families who show their finest side while facing the unique tests that come from a close relationship to a military member. “Each month, a military family that is making the most of the adventure and conquering the challenges is chosen as Family of the Month.” Families receive $500 and an additional $250 will be given to their favorite charity. In June, 2008 one family will be selected as Family of the Year and receive $1,000. Deadline for nomination acceptance is midnight, March 15, 2008. Applications and additional information can be accessed here.

Posted by admin at 11:22 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I am a history nut. I love learning from and about the past. I enjoy examining the people, events, decisions, buildings, everyday objects and just about anything else that I can find out about those who came before us. Whenever I find myself in a place that has cable I am glued to the History Channel. When I travel I explore local history. As George Santayana said,” Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” That kind of perspective really appeals to the evaluator in me.

So to honor my passion for all things historical I offer this next funder:

This week’s pick: The History Channel would like to “inspire the youth in your community to become the preservationists of tomorrow.” To do this they are offering Save Our History Program grants to nonprofit history organizations and local government agencies that partner with a local school or youth group in efforts that help preserve history in their communities.

Focus of the project should be on preserving something of historical significance to a community such as a building, collection or tradition. Grants of up to $10,000 are awarded. Applications are submitted online and are due by June 6th, 2008.

Posted by admin at 01:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

My family is still in recovery mode from spending December in the hospital where they were operating on my son Alex and that has kept the subject of health care foremost on my mind. I feel there are a lot of miraculous things coming from caring staff and skilled professionals in our hospitals. I was amazed at the way the ICU works and how many decisions have to be made in the right order to come to the right results. So, this week I’d like to share a funder that offers an award to recognize outstanding hospitals and their connection to our community.

This week’s pick: The Foster M. McGraw Prize was established in 1986 to identify and honor hospitals that “have distinguished themselves through efforts to improve the health and well-being of everyone in their communities.” This monetary reward of $100,000 is given out jointly by the American Hospital Association, The Baxter International Foundation and the Cardinal Health Foundation. These organizations believe that there can be a rewarding and positive relationship between hospitals and the communities they serve. To apply for this prize, your application must be received no later than April 4, 2008.

Posted by admin at 10:11 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

My drive to work takes me past the airport and each day I still get a little jolt from the “Threat Level Orange” sign that is constantly lit next to the highway. In the past 3 years that I have been driving this route the sign has been on. It is unnerving, but I suppose a necessary reminder that things are not always at a comfort level we would like. This week I am highlighting a government funding opportunity that addresses threats at the nonprofit level.

This week’s pick: The Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI) Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) is part of a bigger effort to strengthen preparedness and is aimed at “the security of nonprofit organizations that are deemed at high risk of a potential terrorist attack and are located within one of the specific UASI-eligible urban areas.” To see the 2007 list of candidate areas click here.

Funds are meant to support security enhancements in high-risk nonprofits and also to integrate and promote nonprofit emergency preparedness into the broader state and local preparedness efforts including coordination with the Citizen Corps Council.

Each eligible nonprofit organization may apply for up to a $100,000 grant award. The 2007 FAQ sheet on this grant can be accessed here and this is the link to grant application kit.

Posted by admin at 11:51 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

From my own experience I feel that women are very good at taking care of others but not so hot on taking care of themselves. This trait negatively affects their health and well-being. During my son’s recent hospital stay, good friends of mine continually reminded me that I needed to keep myself healthy to be able to help my son. It was a great service they did for me by saying that and by helping me to make sure it happened.

The foundation I am highlighting this week puts their emphasis on helping women who have been neglected and underserved and encouraging women to help others.

This week’s pick: The WHO Foundation (Women Helping Others) is providing support for grassroots charities serving women and children in the United States and Puerto Rico. Grant support goes to items like food, gas and grocery vouchers, diapers, equipment, health kits, dental health assistance, textbooks and other supplies. They also grant monies for organizations to meet goals in areas such as finding foster placements for infants in crisis.

You must be a 501©3 organization with a total operating budget of $3 million or less to apply. Typical grants rage from $1,000 to $15,000 and the deadline to apply is September 9, 2008. An application form can be found on the WHO website.

SIDE NOTE: The WHO Foundation website is offering a free resource book for women who are undergoing or recovering from cancer treatments and to cancer related organizations. Click here to learn more.

Posted by admin at 12:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

On Thursday, January 24 the Safe Schools Healthy Students Program (CFDA No. 84.184L) announced that it was accepting applications for 2008. This grant is a great opportunity for schools to work in partnership with community organizations, parents, juvenile justice groups, social services and health organizations to improve the safety and overall well-being of the students in their district. The program is supported jointly by the U.S. Departments of Education, Health and Human Services, and Justice and it provides for “the implementation and enhancement of integrated, comprehensive community-wide plans that create safe and drug-free schools and promote healthy childhood development.”

The application is due March 14, 2008 and only local education agencies (LEA’s) are eligible to apply. For a complete application, click here. Applications must be submitted on the internet through www.grants.gov.

Posted by admin at 10:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

One of fundamental value held by the staff of the Improve Group is that change can be addressed more efficiently and inclusively when people or groups work in collaboration. We believe that everyone possesses their own expertise and wealth of knowledge and tapping into to that helps us in our evaluation efforts and helps everyone learn as they grow. The funder I am highlighting today also values problem solving partnerships as a way to effect real change.

This week’s pick: The Minnesota Office of Justice Programs (OJP) Department of Public Safety has put out an RFP to “to fund problem-solving partnerships designed to improve public safety and the functioning of the criminal justice system.”

Problem-Solving Partnership Grants proposals must include:
• an active partnership between two or more public or private non-profit entities including state, local and tribal governmental agencies, schools and community-based organizations
• addressing a defined public safety issue
• a high likelihood of improving public safety
• focusing on long-term solutions and system change
• a project design that is supported by current promising or best practices research.

Applications are submitted through the Web-Enabled Grant Operations (WEGO) system and must be received by February 21, 2008. If you have not used WEGO before there is a registration form you will need to fill out to be able to sign in. Grants will be rewarded covering a two-year period and range from $50,000 - $300,000. To learn more click here.

Posted by admin at 10:21 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

January seems to be a big month for the arts with some large government grants opening up again.

This week's picks:
1.) The Arts Education Model Design and Dissemination grant was released last week and is concerned with evaluating, documenting and sharing information on effective models for arts education “that integrate the arts with standards-based education programs.” Criteria includes that the model project, (a) serves only elementary school or middle school grades, or both, and (b) is linked to State and national standards intended to enable all students to meet challenging expectations and to improve student and school performance.

The estimated average size awarded for the first year is $250,000. Intent to Apply notice must be submitted by February 13th and applications are due March 14th, 2008. Click here for more information. (CFDA #84.351D)

2.) The Professional Development for Arts Educator – Arts in Education grant focuses on support for high-quality professional development model programs in elementary and secondary education for music, dance, drama, and visual arts educators. The Intent to Apply is February 11th and applications must be submitted electronically through grants.gov by February 29, 2008.

Estimated range of awards is $100,000 to $350,000 for the first year of the project. To learn more about this grant please click here.
(CFDA # or ED #84.351C)

3) The National Endowment for the Arts’ Learning in the Arts for Children and Youth grant is now accepting applications for fiscal year 2008. All projects proposed for this grant must include the learning components of Experience, Study, Performance and Assessment in the arts for children and youth 5 through 18 years of age. The programs may be school- or community based.

Funded projects apply national or state arts education standards. This grant has a June 8, 2008 application deadline and most grant awards will range from $10,000 to $100,000. Click here to learn more. (CFDA No. 45.024)

The Improve Group has been and evaluator for two of these highlighted opportunities: AEMDD grants with Performing Arts Workshop of the San Francisco Bay area and the PDAE grant with Perpich Center for Arts Education here in Minnesota. If you are thinking of applying and are looking for an evaluator, please contact us. We can assist you in writing the evaluation portion of your application.

Posted by admin at 04:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I grew up in what was then a smaller town in Wisconsin where it seemed everyone knew everyone else and the children were watched by a whole community. My sons are growing up in an urban area where there are so many people it becomes difficult to really know your neighbors. Under the worst circumstances kids can find themselves with little support or direction. The funder I am presenting today wants to target youth-based non-profits serving the kids who need them most.

This week’s pick: The Tiger Woods Foundation (TWF) for underserved youth. Famous golfer Tiger Woods is giving back to the community by providing grant opportunities to help underserved youth ages 5-17. Funding areas for the TWF are Education and Youth Development with a geographic focus on young people in urban American cities. Grants of $2,500 to $25,000 are rewarded quarterly and proposals must be in by the following schedule: Feb. 1, May 1, Aug. 1 and Nov. 1. You must be a 501©3 non-profit in existence for at least one year to apply. Go to the Foundation website for more information and to fill out the Eligibility Worksheet to see if you qualify.

Posted by admin at 10:33 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Happy New Year from all of us at the Improve Group! After my long absence due to serious health issues for my oldest son I am overjoyed to report that he is on the mend and I am working again. This Grant Gazing comes to you from my home where I am telecommuting as my son recovers. I am amazed at the technology we have today that allows us viable work options in times of crisis.

Alex is well enough to start getting homework again and actually looks forward to the day he can return to school. So education is on my mind today and I see that it is on the mind of the Federal Government as well.

This week’s pick: The Charter School Program (CSP) [CFDA# 84.282A] has a goal of increasing the “national understanding of the charter school model and to expanding the number of high-quality charter schools available to students across the Nation by providing financial assistance for the planning, program design, and initial implementation of charter schools, and to evaluate the effects of charter schools, including their effects on students, student academic achievement, staff, and parents.”

Grants are awarded to SEA’s (State Educational Agencies) and they use the CSP funds to award sub-grants to non-SEA’s for planning, program design, initial implementation and for help with disseminate information on best practices.

Grant applications are due February 1, 2008 and additional information can be found here. If you are an SEA considering this opportunity please contact the Improve Group as an evaluator for your Charter School initiative.

Posted by admin at 10:25 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Two new grant initiatives came since my last post.

The first is very exciting - notice of a new Safe Schools/Healthy Students solicitation will be released on January 24, 2008, with a 3-month turn-around period. Several Minnesota districts have previously submitted applications. The 2007 solicitation is still available online and is not expected to be modified considerably. One of the interesting things in the current cycle is that grantees are required to include a logic model--see several Improve Group resources for information about this tool for managing your initiative and evaluation.

Healthy Together: Creating Community With New Americans is a grantmaking initiative by Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Minnesota designed to reduce health inequities for immigrants and improve the health and vitality of communities in Minnesota. Applicants may propose projects related to one of the initiative’s three objectives: 1) Foster facilitated exchanges between immigrants and the receiving community, leading to greater social connectedness, healthier communities, and increased opportunities available for all. 2) Build the capacity and viability of immigrant-led organizations. The foundation invites Letters of Inquiry for one-year organizational development grants of up to $10,000 each. 3) Promote the mental health and social adjustment of new Americans.

Posted by admin at 04:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

a href="http://www.theimprovegroup.com/weblog/clip_image002.gif">

Leah here. I am going to do my best to keep up Susan's tradition of providing valuable grant resources to organizations. The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) has opened a new round of competition for its 2007-08 vulnerable populations grants. The new grants competition, Young Men at Risk: Transforming the Power of a Generation, looks to identify the most innovative approaches to help young men ages 15 to 25 fulfill their potential and become healthy, successful adults. From dancing as means to address domestic violence to using music to promote improved mental health, an increasing number of programs are finding new ways to meet pressing societal problems faced by today's young men, the foundation notes. RWJF especially is interested in providing support to organizations that are outside the formal network of health-care providers, such as grassroots organizations, faith-based organizations and advocacy organizations (rather than traditional providers such as hospitals and medical clinics). Awards will be up to $5,000 for up to three competitors. Plus, winners get a chance to enter the larger vulnerable populations competition with a shot at $1 million grants.

Bernard Foundation
Deadline: January 31, 2008

The Viola W. Bernard Foundation was established initially in 1968 as the Tappanz Foundation to provide seed money for innovative mental health programs with a particular emphasis on families and children. The mission of the foundation remains to support innovative programs that address the interplay between social conditions and the psychological health of children and families. The foundation is a $5 million estate making grants of $200,000 each year. Grant applications are considered twice a year and Jan. 31 is the deadline for the March meeting. Applicants will be notified as to whether their application has been granted by written notice within approximately 30 days after board action. Grant award amounts will vary and depend on the scope of the project proposed. The foundation was created in the memory of Dr. Viola Bernard (1907-1998), who dedicated her life to a conception of psychiatry that broadened the traditional definition of the patient and therapist.

Posted by admin at 03:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

You may have noticed a "dip" in the quantity of new blogs over the last week, or be missing our regular Grant Gazing column in particular.

Sadly, our star author, Susan, has been dealing with a sudden and serious family illness this week. We've all been thinking of her and wishing her family well. If you have a personal relationship with Susan, I'm sure that she's included you on her Caring Bridge contact list.

Susan is hoping to be back at work in a couple of weeks. Until then, we will be thinking of her (and we will also be organizing something to help her - more about that in the coming days). I know she'd appreciate your kind thoughts, too.

Posted by admin at 02:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

At the elementary school my sons attend they have a unique opportunity to select two “theaters of learning” each school year. These are short, elective courses where you can learn more about things that are of interest to you but are not part of the regular school curriculum. My youngest, Nick, chose a nutrition course and he really benefited from it. His consumption of vegetables grew as did his knowledge on nutrition and exercise. As a mom, I was very pleased.

The funder I’d like to highlight today is also concerned with children’s health. The timing of this grant coincides with the United Nation’s International Year of the Potato 2008. This effort by the U.N. is aimed at raising awareness of the importance of the potato, and of agriculture in general while focusing in on reducing global poverty and hunger.

The effort by my grant pick this week has a more local focus: helping kids to learn about better nutrition choices in their own schools.

This Week’s Pick: The U.S. Potato Board and the School Nutrition Foundation are working together to launch the School Wellness Grant Program. The Program will award ten U.S. Public elementary schools funds for equipment and/or educational programs that will aid in improving health for students. Eligible applicants include school administrators, foodservice staff, teachers and parents. Grants total $2,500 each and applications are due by April 15, 2008. Click here for more details.

Posted by admin at 01:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

It’s definitely wintertime here in Minnesota. Once again my thoughts go to those who need special help. To me, shelter is the most important necessity in these cold months. My boys and I live in an apartment and although we would love to have a home some day, I realize we are fortunate to have a warm, safe place to sleep at night. So in the afterglow of Thanksgiving, let’s all consider what we do have. This Grant Gazing is going to be a little different; I am going to ask you to do a little funding of your own.

At this time of year there are so many ways to give a little something of ourselves to help make the day better for someone else. A few of the many giving opportunities are listed below:

• Toys for Tots – drop offs in many locations.
• Salvation Army – you know the drill, visit the bell ringers and donate to the little red pot.
• Subway Blanket Collection (on Dec. 10) – you even get a free sub with a donation! Your gift will go to Bridging, Inc.
• Children’s Hospitals and Clinics - bring in your gift by Dec. 15th.
• Operation Minnesota Nice - don’t forget the troops!
• American Red Cross - give blood, it doesn’t cost you a dime but it is priceless.
• Minnesota Hunger Partners- the local food shelves are always in need of supplies.

The suggestions above are linked to Minnesota groups, but these organizations and many more like them and exist all over. Thanks for any help you can provide.

Posted by admin at 10:14 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

This is the one year anniversary for Grant Gazing and the 50th blog of the series! It seems we never stop and celebrate accomplishments so I thought it would be nice to note this benchmark. I also want to acknowledge all you hard-working grant seekers who are out there looking for the opportunities that will bring about a new program or support a worthy cause. I hope this blog is helping in some way. I would love to hear from anyone who applied for and received funding from an opportunity they found in Grant Gazing. That would make my day.

This week’s pick: The Brookdale Foundation works to enhance services to grandparents and others who have taken on parenting of children whose biological parents are unable to do so.

Through their Relatives as Parents Program (RAPP) the Foundation awards seed grants to local agencies and state public agencies to “provide accessible support groups and other supportive services to relative caregivers and the children in their care; encourage cooperation and collaboration among various service delivery systems; ensure the development, expansion, and future continuity of local services; and create replicable models of service.”

Up to fifteen local and three regional programs will be selected to receive grants. Guidelines are targeted to tax-exempt, 501©3 applicant organization. The deadline is January 10, 2008 for local proposals and February 8, 2008 for state proposals.

Posted by admin at 07:55 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

If you are a regular reader of Grant Gazing (and I hope you are) you will have noticed my mentioning the love our whole Improve Group staff has for literature. Evaluation work seems to attract “bookworms” since it requires copious literature and document reviews as well as the need to read to stay current on the issues of the day.

To break up all that fact-finding our staff also enjoys a good fiction or a biography or a little adventurous reading which is why this week’s funder is right up our alley. I was very pleased to find this grant that encourages readers and spreads excitement about the written word.

This weeks’ pick: The James Patterson Pageturner Awards are grants of varying amounts given out to “to people, companies, schools and other institutions that find original and effective ways to spread the excitement of books and reading.”

Legal residents of the United States or Canada are eligible. You may nominate yourself or another individual, school or organization. Nomination forms must be submitted by December 9, 2007. You will be notified if you should fill out an application form. The application must be returned by Sunday, December 16th 2007. Grant awards range from $2,500 up to $50,000 and will be announced in March of 2008.

Click here for more information on novelist James Patterson.

Posted by admin at 11:04 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I think one of the most important things we can do for our youth is to educate and engage them in something beyond their own world. Volunteering, doing community service or just joining in and participating in a club or organization will give them a better view of themselves and where they fit in the world. Today’s funding opportunity is a unique grant to help replicate youth engagement experiences and promote participation in Global Youth Service Day (April 25-27, 2008).

This week’s pick: The Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention in cooperation with Youth Service America is offering grants of $2,000 to applicants at “local, state, or national organizations that are part of a national network, organization, or broader coalition of organizations and want to replicate their successful youth engagement experience (for youth ages 5-25) throughout that network.”

Those interested in applying should be able to answer questions such as: why it has been beneficial to include youth in their organization’s work; how you will build on the success of your program; and how your work will be sustained or gain momentum throughout the year.

Applicants must be located in the United States and should plan to use Global Youth Service Day as a primary vehicle to engage youth in the issue they are addressing through their initiative. Submissions for this grant need to be sent in by November 30, 2007. Application information can be accessed here.

Posted by admin at 09:22 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

It has been a very eye-opening time here at the Improve Group. The fragility of the human body and mind has become incredibly pertinent to us lately as we’ve been trying to support friends facing health issues. In our concern and support for people we care about in difficult health situations, we become more in tune with what matters most in life. It also brings into focus the important work being done by those who help us recover and cope with injury and illness.

The support offered through this next opportunity will promote partnerships between health and education that encourage much needed future careers in the medical health field.

This week’s pick: The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Education, as part of their Health Careers Grant Program for 2008, is seeking applications from qualifying partnerships between school districts, health and/or long term care employers, and higher education. The aim of this grant program is “to assist consortia to develop intergenerational programs to encourage middle and high school students to work and volunteer in health care and long-term care settings.”

Check the grant application regarding specific eligibility requirements to qualify such as, partnerships must include at least one eligible health or long term care employer and an institution of higher education to apply with priority given to consortia that include a school district partner.

Grants of up to $40,000 are available. Due date for the application is November 30, 2007. For more information contact Lawrence Colaizy by email at Lawrence.Colaizy@health.state.mn.us.

Posted by admin at 09:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I am always looking for ways that all of us can contribute to the school or charity of our choice. As a single mom I have limited resources and I am sure I am not alone. That doesn’t excuse me from trying to support the causes I care about. I was pleasantly surprised to find this free and painless way to help only a 'click' away.

This week’s pick: GoodSearch is a Yahoo search tool that allows you to raise small amounts of money for a school or charity you care about while surfing the web. The idea is that you designate the organization that you would like to see receive funds, and then search the web using the GoodSearch tool. When you search, a small portion of money from the search engine advertisers is earmarked for your charity designee.

The group you want to give to must be registered with Yahoo and this can easily be accomplished by clicking the "add a new charity" link.

This is no great amount of money, but a lot of web users can add up over time. A good way to start using this tool would be to announce it at the PTA or with the volunteers and supporters of your organization, have them mark your group to receive funding and then go surfing! There is even a link for easy ways to spread the word.

If you are an online shopper and click on one of the Yahoo partner services you will also be able to designate a charity through their GoodShop program. In both GoodSearch and GoodShop certain types of searched don’t count so read the information carefully.

Posted by admin at 11:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The Robert Woods Johnson Foundation Interdisciplinary Nursing Quality Research Initiative (INQRI) supports teams of nursing and other staff who will research gaps in the knowledge about the relationships between nursing and patient care.

To be eligible you must be an interdisciplinary team with one scholar from nursing and another from a different discipline. Preference will be given to non-profits organizations.

The brief proposal deadline is December 12th and full proposals are due April 28, 2008. Two-year grants up to $300,000 will be announced in 2008. For more information see the Call for Proposals.

Posted by admin at 09:16 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

My father smoked and I think that’s the reason I never did. I was the child who sat behind him in the car and the ashes that were flicked out his window always seemed to come back in mine and land all over me. Not fun. Gratefully, my father was strong enough to put down the cigarettes and quit many years ago. But quitting any habit like smoking is never easy so I want to share an RFP today that may help.

Today’s pick: The Prevention Minnesota program of Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) of Minnesota would like to fund one organization to elevate tobacco prevention in the Latino community. The Latino community was identified as one of the priority populations by BCBS due to factors such a preponderance of tobacco advertising aimed at them and a lower cancer survival rate compared to white populations.

The goal of this grant is to help a Minnesota-based organization become a leader in the prevention of smoking and promotion of health by increasing their capacity to engage in statewide prevention efforts targeted to Latino communities.

An Intent to Apply notice must be received by November 15th, 2007. Full proposals need to be postmarked by December 13, 2007. Non-profits, for-profits and partnerships are eligible to apply. Award maximum is $300,000 per year with a potential of up to two renewal years. For complete details see the Priority Populations Interventions: Latino Communities RFP #585.

Posted by admin at 01:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

As much as I want to deny it, the weather has definitely turned into fall. On a cool and windy walk to my apartment I am given nature’s reminder that we are not all so fortunate to have a place to call home or to find warmth on a chilly Minnesota night. This prompted me to look for a funder who could be of some help to those serving the homeless in our state. I found a commitment to social change in an unusual place. I was pleased to see that, like the Improve Group, it is a woman-led organization.

This week’s pick: The Finnegans Community Fund. Co-Founder and company President, Jacquie Berglund calls her product “Possibly the most socially conscious beer in the world.” She makes this claim because 100% of the profits from the sale of Finnegan’s Irish Amber go to Minnesota nonprofits that work toward improving the lives of the homeless. Nonprofits with a mission of addressing barriers to self-sustainability for the homeless and working poor, men, women, children and families in our community may apply.

Grant amounts range from $500 to $2000. Go to the Finnegans website to fill in the application form. Applications are considered twice a year.

As a side note: for adults 21 years of age and over, Finnegans has a volunteer group called Finnegans Brigade that helps out at events which benefit their Community Fund. The organization also accepts cash donations.

Posted by admin at 01:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The Improve Group recently did a presentation at a leadership conference for the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits. As I fielded questions on how to use different forms of media to engage constituencies, I realized how varied the knowledge is on what marketing tools are available for nonprofits with a tight budget.

Many nonprofit organizations invest precious time and money perfecting their website to tell their message in a clear and compelling manner. The step that is sometimes missed is how to drive traffic to that website and generate donors, volunteers, goods or whatever is needed to support their mission. Today I am highlighting an opportunity that can help nonprofits get their name out there and get their website noticed.

This week’s pick: The Google Grants program which helps nonprofits by providing free Google AdWords (in-kind, keyword advertising) for at least 3 months with a cap of $10,000 per month. AdWords posts an ad for your non-profit in the Sponsored Links section on Google.com search engine pages. The ad would link directly to your website.

Google's website offers helpful topics explaining how to make your ad campaign effective. For instance, you can create a group of campaigns that are targeted to different geographic locations or languages. They also provide of summary of the ad’s performance and of the keywords people used that brought them to you.

Charitable organizations throughout the U.S. are eligible to apply along with nonprofits in selected foreign countries. A simple application form for this in-kind grant can be found online.

Posted by admin at 04:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

One of the reasons I live in the Twin Cities area is because I like what it offers my family. No place is perfect, but we seem to have a good blend of so many of the things people need to live a healthy and productive life. I’ll bet I am not alone in admiring my community. If you feel you live in a special place you can take advantage of this next funder’s offer to help your home town to become even better.

This week’s pick: America's Promise Alliance and Capital One have announced the launch of the 2008 100 Best Communities for Young People Competition. The Alliance looks for communities that provide developmental resources which support success in life for young people. They call these resources the Five Promises; they are:

• Caring Adults
• Safe Places
• A Healthy Start
• Effective Education
• Opportunities to Help Others

Large urban cities and small rural towns can submit applications explaining how their town has discovered ways to solve problems that improve the lives of youth in the community. You can go to the America’s Promise Alliance website to see which 100 communities received the money in 2007 and get an idea of the type of environments the competition rewards.

Winning communities receive $300,000 in grant money, along with extensive media coverage and other resources. Click here to go directly to the 2008 application.

Posted by admin at 09:06 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

At the Improve Group we do a lot of work for the inspiring Girl Scouts of the USA. In our evaluations of their programs we learn a great deal about how amazing changes can come about when someone who cares connects with a young person in need. GSUSA seems to give girls the confidence to explore their own dreams. My next funder also provides an avenue for girls and young women to follow their dreams.

This week’s pick: The Ann Bancroft Foundation realizes that the potential for individual achievement in girls and young women is very great. They support girl-centered programs and form beneficial partnerships to promote growth and encourage imaginative endeavors. As part of fulfilling this mission, they are currently accepting applications for the fall 2007 Dare to Dream mini-grants. Minnesota girls age ten through grade 10 are eligible.

Girls can apply for a wide range of activities but will need an adult mentor to help them through the application process. Grants range from $100 to $500. Applications are due by November 1, 2007. To learn more about this grant click here or to learn more about the impressive journeys of Ann Bancroft click here.

Posted by admin at 02:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

As I look at the date of this Grant Gazing I just want to send my personal wishes out to everyone touched by the 9-11 attacks. My wishes are for healing and safety and sanity in our world.

My feelings about today lead me to provide the following links to find groups working toward global and local peace. All of the following have their own grant or fellowship programs. This is in no way a comprehensive listing, just a place to start. Every movement towards peace needs a place to start.

The United States Institute of Peace has a mission of preventing, managing, and resolving threats to international peace.

http://www.usip.org/aboutus/index.html

The Peace Development Fund encourages the development of diverse communities essential to promoting peace.

http://www.peacefund.org/grant/-grnntrn.htm

The Ploughshares Fund helps people to implement good ideas to build a safer, more peaceful world.

http://www.ploughshares.org/grants.php?a=2&b=0&c

Rotary International has a Rotary Peace and Conflict Studies program for professionals around the world to train in conflict resolution and mediation strategies.

http://www.rotary.org/foundation/educational/rpcsp/index.html

Posted by admin at 02:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

This grant opportunity involves two of my favorite things - the Arts and Organizational Development. I love the arts because I have a history as both an actress and an arts fundraiser and program manager. I respect organizational development because the work of the Improve Group is so immersed in assessment and improvement of businesses and their programs. So you can see why I am happy to tell you what this next funder has to offer.

This week’s pick: The Metropolitan Regional Arts Council (MRAC) is interested in strengthening the management and resources of nonprofit arts groups who have annualized operating expenses of less than $300,000. To achieve this goal, MRAC is accepting applicantions for both Organizaitonal Development and Capital grants.

A partial list of what the grants will fund includes:

• Board governance
• Strategic issues
• Resource development (fundraising)
• Informati