Foundation grants now available

Sunday, July 29, 2007

The Putnam County Community Foundation announces the availability of nearly $140,000 in matching monies for endowments benefiting charitable organizations in Putnam County to help them become self-sustaining.

Matching grants are available for an organization's existing or newly created endowment at the Community Foundation. Grant applications are due to the Community Foundation office by Sept. 3.

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 of this year. All charitable organizations are eligible to apply, including 501(c)3 non-profits, churches and units of government. The application is one page, front and back, with only one attachment.

This 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 this purpose.

"This is a perfect way for donors to maximize their gift to a charity. Each gift truly makes a lasting impact," 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."

The Community Foundation welcomes all eligible organizations to apply. To request an application in an electronic or hard copy format, contact Nelda Shoemaker at 653-4978.

For questions about the endowment building program or to schedule consultation in completing the application or learning more about endowments, contact Wolfe at 653-4978.

The Putnam County Community Foundation administers 157 funds and has issued more than $1.5 million in grants, since inception in 1985. The Community Foundation is a public charity established to serve donors, award grants, and conduct community development to enrich the quality of life in Putnam County.

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