Area Community Foundation announces grants are available

Tuesday, August 1, 2006

The Putnam County Community Foundation has announced its first major program to help charitable organizations in Putnam County build an endowment and become self-sustaining.

Matching grants are available to an agency's existing or newly-created endowment at the Community Foundation. Grant applications are due to the Community Foundation office by Sept. 1.

Organizations applying must set a goal for their endowment building campaign and have a plan to successfully complete the goal.

If awarded a grant, organizations will be able to have contributions to its endowment matched as soon as Dec. 1 this year.

All charitable organizations are eligible to apply, including 501(c)3 non-profits and churches.

The opportunity is created out of the Community Foundation's commitment to support local charitable organizations and help them become self-sustaining through an endowment and planned giving. Community Foundation staff members are available to help organizations and individuals establish endowments for the purpose.

"This is a perfect way for donors to maximize their gift to a charity that will last forever," said Eric Wolfe, Community Development Director for the Community Foundation.

"Donors, charities and the community all benefit from local organizations that are self-sustaining and providing valuable services."

In September, the Community Foundation will also kick off a monthly learning series for charitable organizations that will help them develop skills and knowledge in fund development, strategic planning, marketing, volunteer recruitment and much more.

The learning series and endowment building program are all ways the Community Foundation is serving local charities.

The Community Foundation welcomes all eligible organizations to apply.

To request an application in an electronic or hard copy format, call Nelda Shoemaker at (765) 653-4978.

For more information about the endowment building program or to schedule consultation in completing the application, call Wolfe at 653-4978.

The Putnam County Community Foundation administers 130 funds and has issued $1.4 million in grants since its inception.

It is a public charity established in 1985 to serve donors, award grants, and conduct community development to enrich the quality of life in Putnam County.

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