Community Foundation announces spring grant cycle

The Putnam County Community Foundation has announced that it is accepting applications for Community and Endowment Builder Grants.

All 501(c)(3) public charities, churches and units of government are eligible to apply for Community Grants and Endowment Builder Grants.

Preliminary Community Grant and Endowment Builder applications are being accepted now and are due Feb. 2. Application forms may be picked up at the Foundation office or downloaded at www.pcfoundation.org/grant_forms.html.

Community 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 their application to be sure it meets eligibility requirements, though this is not required.

Endowment Builder Grants are matching grants to help grow a nonprofit 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," Elaine Peck, executive director of the Community Foundation, said. "Plus, this is a perfect way for donors to maximize their contributions because each gift is matched and makes a lasting impact."

The Putnam County Foundation is a nonprofit public charity established in 1985 to serve donors, award grants and provide leadership, enriching the quality of life and strengthening community in Putnam County.

The Community Grants, Endowment Builder Grants and Youth Philanthropy Grants are made possible by the unrestricted endowments administered by the Foundation.

For more information about unrestricted endowments and Lilly Endowment Inc. GIFT VI matching program, persons may contact Elaine Peck, executive director, 653-4978, or epeck@pcfoundation.org.