Grants are made only to organizations that are tax-exempt from federal income taxation pursuant to Section 501(c)(3) and that are not classified as private foundations within the code.
What types of projects are more likely to receive consideration for a Foundation grant?
The Foundation prefers to support projects and programs that strive for excellence, improve service for clients and strengthen the organization. A major emphasis is placed on support of activities that serve underserved, low-income persons living in Jackson, Clay, and Platte counties in Missouri, and Wyandotte and Johnson counties in Kansas.
Except in the most unusual circumstances, the Foundation does not make grants to:
- Organizations that knowingly discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, sexual orientation, age, disability, marital status, or status as a veteran
- Organizations that are not in compliance with laws and regulations that govern them
- Individuals or businesses
- Publications
- Projects for which the Foundation must exercise expenditure responsibility
- Single-disease causes
- Travel or conferences
- Historic preservation
- Telethons, dinners, advertising, sponsorships, or other special events
- Animal-related causes
- Sports-related causes
Who chooses the organizations that receive grants each year?
The Foundation's Board of Directors meets quarterly to consider funding requests. At each meeting, the directors authorize specific contributions that are within the program guidelines. In unusual circumstances, special contributions may be provided although they fall outside the program guidelines.
What is the duration of the grant?
The Foundation usually makes one-year grants. However, in appropriate circumstances, will consider requests for up to 5 years.
When is the deadline for applications?
Grant applications must be postmarked by the following dates (please do not hand deliver):
- February 25, 2010
- April 29, 2010
- July 29, 2010
- October 14, 2010