Putnam Community Foundation fall grant cycle slated

The Putnam County Community Foundation has announced that it is accepting applications for Community and Endowment Builder Grants. All 501(c)(3) nonprofits, churches and units of government are eligible to apply for Community and Endowment Builder Grants.

Preliminary Community Grant and Endowment Builder applications are being accepted now and are due Aug. 1. Applications may be picked up at the Foundation office, 2 South Jackson St., Greencastle, or downloaded at www.pcfoundation.org/grant_forms.html.

Grant applications are simple one-page snapshots of the project, its impact and basic information about the organization. All applicants are encouraged to work with Community Foundation staff in preparing an application to be sure it meets eligibility requirements, though this is not required.

Endowment Builders are matching grants to help grow an organization's existing or soon-to-be created endowment at the Community Foundation. Any organization with an endowment at the Community Foundation or an organization seeking to start an endowment is encouraged to apply.

"Establishing and growing an endowment builds financial stability and helps a charity to attract larger gifts, including estate gifts," said Elaine Peck, Community Foundation executive director. "Plus, this is a perfect way for donors to maximize their contributions because each gift is matched and makes a lasting impact."

The mission of the Community Foundation is broad and includes support of all charitable activities in Putnam County. Community Foundation funding priorities are increasing literacy and educational attainment, combating obesity and promoting fitness, increasing economic development, supporting senior citizens, building non-profit capacity and increasing access to public transportation.

Grants to the community are made possible through contributions, both in cash and planned estate gifts, from visionary donors who want to make a difference in Putnam County. Donors interested in establishing a fund for this purpose may be eligible to receive matching funds to start an endowment.

For questions about the grants program and process or how to start an endowment, persons may contact Dean Gambill, director of Community Development, at 653-4978.