Grants and Applications, Non-Profit

Kerr Mesner, Ph.D

Kerr Mesner, Ph.D (he/him)

Kerr Mesner, Ph.D (he/him) is a consultant, facilitator, spiritual director, and the owner of Heart Story Consulting. Dr. Mesner is also a queer/transgender scholar, performing artist, and activist. He completed his Ph.D. in Education at the University of British Columbia, Canada, and taught for several years in Education and Women’s/Trans/Queer Studies. Through his company Heart Story Consulting, he supports nonprofits, schools, and higher ed institutions in creating spaces that honor diversity, with a particular focus on the work of celebrating gender diversity. Kerr believes deeply in the power of local community to connect, inspire, and create change. www.heartstoryconsulting.com.

Malia'Kekia Nicolini

Malia’Kekia Nicolini (‘oia/she/they)

Malia’Kekia Nicolini (‘oia/she/they) is kanaka maoli, they received their inoa (name) traditionally from an inoa po (mothers dream) that held both an inoa ho’ailona (symbol) and their inoa ulaleo (ancestors voice). Malia’Kekia is an artistic director, speaker, arts curriculum designer, consultant, and gratitude enthusiast. ‘Oia is the Co-Founder of Play Pathways Initiative specializing in teaching play-based strategies for the realms of education and business. Malia’Kekia is also the BOLD Co-Chair (Building Opportunity for Leadership and Development) for the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival Region 1. Training includes: artEquity’s BIPOC Leadership Circle, Arts & Cultural Organization Management (Harvard), BFA (Music Theater). Malia’Kekia weaves all of their experience together to empower dreams and create sustainability towards a play-integrated world. www.playpathways.com

Grant Reviewer Information

We envision a thriving and enriching community for all. The Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes works to address the current needs of the community through a multiple avenue approach to correct the problems that exist and find creative solutions to avoid the problems in the future. We award grants to non-profit organizations whose programs make a positive impact on the needs and issues that face our community.

To do this, we look for community members to volunteer as grant reviewers for the foundation’s largest grant cycle, the Community Grant Program. A group of 18-20 diverse mix of community volunteers, civic and nonprofit professionals, business leaders, and educators with unique knowledge and experiences are needed to help guide the Community Foundation’s grantmaking. Experience evaluating grant applications is helpful but is not required.

View and download the grant reviewer position description here.

To be considered for the volunteer role of grant reviewer, please fill out an application.

Questions? Please reach out to Sara Shaut, Vice President of Programs by emailing ses@communityfund.org

Leadership Advancement Award

This sabbatical funding program provides the opportunity for executive directors to step fully away from day-to-day work responsibilities. During the leader’s absence, other staff will maintain operations and work with board members, committees, volunteers, and each other to assure the returning executive is not overwhelmed with tasks upon their return.

Eligibility

Executive Directors (or equivalent position such as President or CEO) with at least ten years of paid service to their current organization. The sabbatical period must be two to three months to be considered for funding.

Organization represented must meet the following criteria:

Include Chemung County NY in their service area but can reach a larger regional audience.

Have a current strategic plan in action.

Have a DEIB plan that includes board composition and operational goals.

Recipient of a Community Foundation grant within the prior five years.

Have staff in place that can assume duties associated with the executive’s absence that will benefit from an opportunity to assume some of the executive duties to bolster their own leadership development.

Continue to pay the executive their full salary, including all benefits, during the sabbatical period.

Selection and Participant Follow-Up

Selection and Participant Follow-Up
Applications are due November 1 and notification will be made by December 1. Members of the Community Foundation staff and board will serve on the selection committee.

If an applicant that meets all the stated criteria is not selected, they are encouraged to re-apply. Successful applicants cannot re-apply within ten years.

Follow-up
At the end of the sabbatical period, the executive will provide the Community Foundation with a brief written overview of the experience that includes:

Three personal and three professional takeaways for the future.

One “big picture” moment of clarity regarding the mission and/or operation of their organization.

One piece of advice for other executive directors in these three categories: new (1-2 years), experienced (3-8 years), and seasoned (9 years or more.)

Award Details

Up to $10,000 will be awarded. These funds can be used for the following expenses:

Costs associated with airfare and lodging during travel, but not meals or other personal expenses.

Costs associated with personal development opportunities, such as retreats or workshops, that would not otherwise qualify as traditional staff development expenses.

Stipends for staff assuming additional responsibilities.

Fees associated with temporary contracted services directly related to fulfilling executive role.

How to Apply

Applications will be due November 1 and notification will be made by December 1.

Applicants will provide a written plan to detail how they will spend their time away from the organization and what they hope to accomplish. Travel is highly encouraged.

Other application materials will include:

Proof that the organization meets the stated criteria.
Letters of support from at least one board member and one staff member.
Travel plans and expenses.
Expenses associated with executive absence. This can include stipends for other staff members or contracted organizational support. Download the sabbatical budget here.
Summary of how duties will be re-assigned during the executive absence.

Apply Here

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Twin Tiers Christian Service Fund

The Twin Tiers Christian Service Fund provides two grant opportunities to support holistic and spiritual living for either residents or nonprofit organizations in Chemung and adjacent counties.

The Twin Tiers Christian Holistic Living Grant provides grants up to $2500 to education, healthcare, and/or human service organizations in Chemung and adjacent counties.

The grant may be used for events and programming that encompass a holistic living component. Funding may also support staff training in spiritual practices that will ultimately support and enhance their work in the community.

The Twin Tiers Christian Moving Up Grant provides funding support for individuals up to $500 who require financial assistance for basic needs, additional training/certifications, or other programs and services that will ultimately support and enhance their physical, mental, social, emotional, and spiritual growth..

When Should I Apply?

The Twin Tiers Christian Service Fund accepts grant requests with a rolling deadline throughout the year. Individuals and/or organizations may submit requests for funding up to $2,500 (nonprofits) or $500 (individuals) through an online application. Notification of a grant award can be expected within 30 days after submitting.

Please make sure you’ve allowed plenty of time between submission, internal review, and notification of a grant, and the timing of your training, program and/or event.

Deadline

Applications: rolling deadline, applications may be submitted at any time throughout the year.

Notification: no more than 30 days from submission

Who May Apply?

Individuals and/or nonprofit organizations may apply. Organization’s must be a registered 501(c)3 or have a fiscal sponsor. Individual/Nonprofit must be located in and serving the citizens of Chemung and/or adjacent counties of Upstate, New York. Grants are evaluated based on the availability of funds and community priorities.

Where should I send my application?

Grant Applications are submitted online by using the online application form.

If you don’t already have a profile within the online grant system you will need to create one.

Once you’ve created a profile, you will be able to click Apply from the menu on the top of the page and then scroll through the available grant opportunities to select the Twin Tiers Christian Service Holistic Living or Moving Up grant.

To view a pdf of the applications, click below:

Nonprofit Organizations: Twin Tiers Christian Moving Up Grant
Individuals: Twin Tiers Christian Holistic Living Grant

To begin your application, click on the button below.

Questions? Contact the Vice President of Programs at 739-3900 or ses@communityfund.org.

Apply Here

Finland Education Experience: June 5-13, 2023

Finland is widely considered to have the most effective educational system in the world. Sending a large group of local PreK through grade 12 teachers and staff to learn directly from their Finnish counterparts would be a community grant investment with the potential to impact generations of local students. It would also create new relationships among local educators in the short-term that would deepen partnerships between schools and districts.

Eligibility

The application process is open to educators in Chemung County that meet the following criteria:

Bachelor’s degree or higher in education. Master’s degree preferred if appropriate.
3 or more years of full-time experience in public and/or private PreK-12 education
3 reference letters. At least one from a supervisor or school administrator, one from a
peer, and one from a parent or student.
Essay detailing why they would like to be a part of this experience and their career plans
in education.
Teachers can also be nominated by other district staff and administrators.

Trip Details

Trip Details
June 5 – 13, 2023

Day 1	Travel to NYC by charter bus for a direct flight to Oulu.
Day 2	Welcome to Finland! Arrive in time for dinner and to unpack and catch up on sleep.
Day 3	Begin Finnish Education Study Tour – Gain an inclusive picture of Finnish education and the latest innovations in the field of education. Visit schools at all levels, observe in classrooms and speak to leaders, teachers, and students about the subjects represented on the trip.
Day 4	Expert session on Early Childhood Education. Visit a daycare center, comprehensive school, and primary school.
Day 5	Today the focus will be on the Finish curriculum and development of Learning Spaces, Science Education, STE(A)M and robotics and visit different schools in Oulu as well as an engaging discussion with local teachers
Day 6	Visit the University of Oulu to research teacher training and competence development at the LEAF Laboratory, which focuses on the future of education
Day 7	Fly to Helsinki for Helsinki city tour
Day 8	Tour Suomenlinna Fortress – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 9	Travel back to NYC and ultimately home by charter bus.

Selection and Participant Follow-Up

Selection and Participant Follow-Up
A panel of board members and community volunteers would review and select participants
based on the materials submitted by applicants and the desire to create a diverse cohort based
on:

• Grade level
• Years of experience
• Type of educator (i.e., grade level, special education, arts)
• Teacher demographics
• Student demographics

Participants will be required to document the experience in real-time through journaling, video,
audio, interviews, and other tactics. These experiences will be archived, summarized, and made
available to the public.

After the trip, participants will work in groups to develop a presentation of learning for various
district subcommittees. Examples of subcommittees include but are not limited to, groups
focusing on curriculum, social/emotional learning, and fostering psychologically safe and
affirming classrooms/schools. Content should connect to the New York State Culturally
Responsive-Sustaining Education Framework and the New York State Board of Regents’
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Framework and Policy Statement.

The goal will be to turn these presentations into recommendations by mid-August 2023 for potential implementation in the 2023-2024 school year.

In January 2024, participants will be surveyed to determine any changes they have made in
their classrooms as a result of the learning opportunity and assess the relationships
built/sustained.

Cost and Funding

The cost is $5192 per participant is covered entirely for 25 Chemung County educators and includes the following:

● Round trip airfare on Finnair
● Double hotel accommodations
● All meals
● Private transportation as per itinerary
● Five days of academic education and Finnish culture program
● Helsinki cultural experiences
● English Speaking tour manager during the tour
● Airport Transfers

The Community Foundation is covering the entire cost of 25 Chemung County educators.
School districts have agreed fund the expenses associated with substitute teachers and
participating administrators.

How to Apply

Applications will be accepted between November 18, 2022 and December 31, 2022.
Applicants or those wishing to nominate an educator, will need to complete the online application. Teachers can also be nominated by other district staff and administrators.

In addition to some basic questions, you’ll also need to provide:

3 reference letters. At least one from a supervisor or school administrator, one from a
peer, and one from a parent or student.
Essay detailing why they would like to be a part of this experience and their career plans
in education

Apply Here

7

Grant Process, Schedule and Reporting

To apply for a grant from one of the Community Foundation’s competitive grant cycles, please login to our online portal to access current applications. Grant applications are accepted annually. Guidelines and deadlines are publicized within each opportunity description.

Each proposal is reviewed by a panel of community members and formally approved by the foundation’s Board of Directors. Awards are determined based on the proposals value to the residents and communities of the Finger Lakes region as well as availability of funding, quality and vision presented in the application. For further information on the grants process, please contact the Vice President of Programs

Who May Apply?

Registered 501(c)(3) organizations.

Proposals from faith-based organizations will only be considered if:
(1) service benefits all, regardless of religion;
(2) service provided is not religious in nature; and
(3) there is no proselytizing associated with the service.

What activities are ineligible for funding?

The Community Foundation generally does not make grants from unrestricted funds for the following:

Annual campaigns, special event fundraisers or sponsorships

Religious purposes

Political or partisan purposes

Activities taking place before grant decisions are made

Trips for schools or clubs

Deficit funding or debt retirement

Individuals (except through scholarships for education)

Competitive Grant Cycle Schedule

Community Foundation administers eight main competitive grant cycles per year.

February
Rose’s Youth Philanthropists
March
Fund for Women of the Southern Tier
Central Christian Churches Fund
April
Elmo Royce Youth Fund & Camperships
May
Schuyler County Fund
June/July
Community Grant Program – Program & General Operating
August
Keuka Area Fund
September
Edith Saxton Fund for Steuben County Youth Services
October
Elmo Royce Youth Fund

Grant Follow-Up Report

Grantees receiving $2,000 or more in competitive grant funds from at least one competitive program are required to submit a grant follow-up report. Grantees have at least one full year from the date of notification to complete the stated objectives in the application. The report process is designed to help our nonprofit partners share successes and opportunities for growth. If you have any questions about the reporting process or timeframe, please contact the Vice President of Programs at sep@communityfund.org.

Grant follow-up reports can be found by logging in to the online portal and accessed on your applicant dashboard. Reports are due October 1 every year.

Reports require a final budget report that can be downloaded here: Follow-Up Budget Form

This form is an Excel file.
Download and save this form to your desktop, complete it in full, save (as a PDF if you can), and upload into your application.

Budget Templates

Program/Project Budget Template
This form is an Excel file.
Download and save this form to your desktop, complete it in full, save (as a PDF if you can), and upload into your application.

ACH Authorization

The Community Foundation has transitioned to making grant payments via Automatic Deposits (ACH) directly into the Organizations banking institution. If Community Foundation does not have an ACH form for the Organization or the Organization’s banking information has changed, follow these steps:

1. Download this Form.
2. Fill out completely and save the form to your desktop
3. If the organization has recently received a grant award and we do not have a form on file, upload the ACH form into the Grant Agreement & Acceptance Procedures process within the online grant system.

If the organization needs to update the ACH form that is on file, please email the new form to Sara at ses@communityfund.org.

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Schuyler County Fund

The Schuyler County Fund at the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes provides a vehicle for individuals, families, and businesses to invest in the residents of Schuyler County and to protect the physical environment of the region. The Community Foundation is a public charity that encourages funding requests from non-profit tax-exempt programs.

Schuyler County Fund Guidelines

When should I apply?

The Foundation accepts applications for the Schuyler County Fund once per year. Organizations may submit one application per funding cycle.

Deadline

Application: Submitted April 3, 2025

Notification: June

Who may apply?

Applicants must be registered 501(c)3 organizations. Only projects serving the citizens of Schuyler County may be considered.

What activities are not eligible for funding?

The Schuyler County Fund does not make grants for the following activities:

Annual campaigns, special event fundraisers or sponsorships

Religious purposes

Political or partisan purposes

Activities taking place before grant decisions are made

Deficit funding or debt retirement

Individuals

How should I apply?

Applications to the Schuyler County Fund will now be accepted through the online grant management system, Foundant Lifecycle Manager.

Apply Here

The first step will be to create a new account. You only need to do this once. If you’ve applied for other grants managed by the Community Foundation using the online system, please log on using your email and password.

All applications must include a completed project budget and expense form. This form is a fillable PDF. In addition, the online application will ask you to upload your organizations operating budget for the current year.

Project Budget & Expense Form

* Download and save this form to your desktop, complete it in full, save (as a PDF if you can), and upload into your application.

Questions? Contact the Vice President of Programs at (607) 739-3900, or by email at sep@communityfund.org.

Edith Saxton Fund for Steuben County Youth Services

Grants from The Edith Saxton Fund for Steuben County Youth Services Fund support not-for-profit projects, programs, and organizations working to improve the quality of life of Steuben County youth. Preference will be given to grants focusing on youth in the Bath Area.

Edith Saxton Fund Grant Guidelines

When should I apply?

The Foundation accepts applications to the Edith Saxton Youth Services Fund once per year. .

Application Deadline: September 15
Notification: November-December

Who may apply?

Applicants must be non-profit organizations serving the youth and:

located in and providing services in Bath, NY, located in Steuben County

classified as nonprofit charitable organization under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS code; or publicly supported organizations such as school districts and municipalities

How should I apply?

The Community Foundation accepts grant applications to its Edith Saxton Fund for Steuben County Youth Services through an online application system, Foundant Grant Lifecycle Manager.

Apply Here

The first step will be to create a new account. You only need to do this once. If you’ve applied for other grants managed by the Community Foundation using the online system, please log on using your email and password.

Instructions for use of the online application system:

Grant Application Tutorial

What activities are not eligible for funding?

Organizations may not submit more than one application for funding at a time. The Edith Saxton Fund generally does not make grants for the following:

Religious purposes

Political or partisan purposes

Activities taking place before grant decisions are made

Deficit funding or debt retirement

Individuals

Questions? Contact the Vice President of Programs at (607) 739-3900, or by email at ses@communityfund.org.

Elmo M. Royce Camperships

The Elmo M. Royce Benevolent Fund is an endowment fund that makes grants to support camperships for children from Schuyler County. Camperships are available annually for any youth residing in Schuyler County and are to be used to support youth with financial need who would like to attend summer camp. Camps include organized youth activities as well as camps administered by religious or other youth serving organizations.

When should I apply?

The Elmo M. Royce Committee accepts applications once a year: April 16. Awards will be made within 6 weeks from the deadline.

Deadline

Deadline to apply: postmarked by April 16, 2024

Campership Application

Who may apply?

Applicants must be any youth who currently reside in Schuyler County.

Where should I send my application?

Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc.
301 South Main Street
Horseheads, NY 14845

Questions? Contact the Vice President of Programs at (607) 739-3900, or by email at sep@communityfund.org.

Elmo M. Royce Fund

The Elmo M. Royce Fund grants funds to non-profit organizations whose programs support youth activities and recreational programs for the youth of Schuyler County, New York and is a component fund at the Community Foundation. In May of 2003 HSBC Bank transferred the management of the Elmo M. Royce Youth Fund to the Community Foundation.

In addition, the Elmo M. Royce Fund also provides Camperships – camp scholarships – to youth living in Schuyler County who demonstrate a financial need. Camps may include but are not limited to organized summer youth activities, camps administered by religious organizations, 4-H camp, camps hosted by colleges and universities, etc.

Elmo M. Royce Youth Fund

Grant Application

When should I apply?

The Elmo M. Royce Advisory Committee accepts applications twice per year: April 3 and October 5.
* Awards will be made within 6 weeks from the deadline.

Who may apply?

Applicants must be non-profit organizations serving the youth of Schuyler County, New York.

What activities are not eligible for funding?

Organizations may not submit more than one application for funding at a time. The Elmo M. Royce Fund generally does not make grants for the following:

Religious purposes

Political or partisan purposes

Activities taking place before grant decisions are made

Deficit funding or debt retirement

Individuals

Where should I send my application?

Elmo M. Royce Youth Fund
Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc.
301 South Main Street
Horseheads, NY 14845

Questions? Contact the Vice President of Programs at (607) 739-3900, or by email at sep@communityfund.org.

Rose’s Youth Philanthropists (RYP)

Rose’s Youth Philanthropists (RYP) is a regional youth grants committee requesting proposals from organizations that impact youth in a wide variety of fields in Chemung and Southeastern Steuben counties. The S. Roberts Rose Fund was established at the Community Foundation of the Elmira- Corning and the Finger Lakes in order to give youth a voice at the grantmaking table. RYP offers grants of $200-2000 to local youth-serving organizations.

Apply For A Grant

Rose’s Youth Philanthropists (RYP) is a regional youth grants committee requesting proposals from organizations that impact youth in a wide variety of fields in Chemung and Southeastern Steuben counties. The S. Roberts Rose Fund was established at the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes in order to give youth a voice at the grantmaking table.

RYP is a responsive grantmaking opportunity designed to empower RYP members to review, score and recommend grant proposals that provide meaningful impact in the community. Submission of proposals that include activities that involve youth to address community need through involvement in arts (dance, drama, creative arts, music writing etc.), advocacy programs, educational classes, mentoring /tutoring, outdoor experiences, “real-life” learning experiences, service learning and treatment services are encouraged. Areas of specific interest to RYP are: issues related to literacy among all ages of youth, stability and safety in the home, and mental health.

The S. Roberts Rose Fund provides financial support for projects, programs and/or activities that serve youth in such areas as human services, arts and culture, education and youth, health, the environment and civic affairs. Previous grants have ranged from $200 to $2000. $8,000 will be awarded in the upcoming grant cycle. All programs that receive RYP funds will be subject to an evaluation within one year of the grant date.

Rose's Youth Philanthropists Grant Guidelines

Program/Project Budget Template

Application Question List

Who is eligible to receive a grant?

Rose’s Youth Philanthropists support a wide variety of projects but does restrict itself to organizations:

located in or providing services to residents of Chemung and SE Steuben Counties

classified as nonprofit charitable organization under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS code; or publicly supported organizations such as school districts and municipalities

who have submitted a grant evaluation for any completed program previously funded by the Community Foundation

RYP Grantmaking Objectives

Involve youth in the development and implementation of the project, program and/or activity

Increase community involvement and volunteerism among youth

Promote values of personal responsibility in youth

Provide an avenue for internal exploration and personal empowerment of youth

Respect and promote diversity

Support intervention and prevention of social problems

Support and encourage youth creativity

Develop civic and public pride in youth

Deadline

Feb 1, 2025

Who May Apply?

RYP requests proposals from organizations that impact youth in a wide variety of fields in Chemung and Southeastern Steuben counties.

Questions? Contact the Vice President of Programs at (607) 739-3900, or by email at ses@communityfund.org.

Keuka Area Fund

The Keuka Area Fund provides grants to registered 501(c)(3) organizations that serve residents of the communities surrounding Keuka Lake and protect the physical environment of the region. Funding requests for programs of non-profit organizations should:

We address the current needs of the community through a multiple avenue approach to correct the problems that exist and find creative solutions to avoid the problems in the future. The Community Foundation looks at the holistic needs in the community, including education, arts, infrastructure, animals, the environment, and wellness. Our priorities align with our values that we hope to model together with our nonprofit partners. Our priorities also guide the application review, so we encourage you to review this section as you develop your proposal.

Community Impact - We support organizations whose work is guided by clear goals for the growth of individuals and communities in the areas of human services, arts and culture, education and youth, health, animal welfare, the environment, and civic affairs.

Advance equity - The voices of the underserved and economically diverse are important, and programs designed to foster access for community connections are a priority. Funded programs will provide clearly stated goals for the incorporation of diverse cultures, philosophies, and experiences. Diversity should be present not only in program delivery but also in the leadership, mission, boards, and operations of the organization.

Collaborate with community – We strive to create healthier conditions for people in our community by collectively improving and developing them together. We believe in authentic community relationships.

Innovation and creativity - We support promising solutions whose results may be unpredictable

Sustainability – We encourage proposals that will use awarded funds to strengthen their capacity and expertise to serve our most underserved.

Keuka Area Fund Guidelines

When Should I Apply?

The Keuka Area Fund accepts applications one time per year. Organizations may submit one application per funding cycle.

Deadline

Application: postmarked by August 21

Notification: end of October

Who May Apply?

Only projects serving the residents of Steuben County towns and villages of Bradford, Prattsburgh, Pulteney, Urbana, Wayne, Wheeler and/or Yates County will be considered.

What Activities are Not Eligible for Funding?

Annual campaigns, special event fundraisers or sponsorships

Religious purposes

Political or partisan purposes

Activities taking place before grant decisions are made

Deficit funding or debt retirement

Individuals

How Should I Apply?

Applications to the Keuka Area Fund will now be accepted through the online grant management system, Foundant Lifecycle Manager.

Apply Here

The first step will be to create a new account. You only need to do this once. If you’ve applied for other grants managed by the Community Foundation using the online system, please log on using your email and password.

All applications must include a completed project budget and expense form. This form is a fillable PDF. In addition, the online application will ask you to upload your organizations operating budget for the current year.

Project Budget & Expense Form

*Download and save this form to your desktop, complete it in full, save (as a PDF if you can), and upload it into your application.

Questions? Contact the Vice President of Programs at (607) 739-3900, or by email at ses@communityfund.org.

Fund for Women of the Southern Tier Grants

The Fund for Women of the Southern Tier is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose endowment and grantmaking are managed by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc. The mission of the Fund for Women of the Southern Tier is to help girls and women achieve economic self-sufficiency and realize life goals.

The targeted focus of the Fund for Women of the Southern Tier is for programs/projects that support the education and/or health of girls and women. Grants are made annually on a competitive basis.

To learn more about the Fund for Women of the Southern Tier, you can visit their website.

Fund For Women of the Southern Tier

When Should I Apply?

The Fund for Women of the Southern Tier accepts application from individuals and registered 501c3 organizations once per year.

Deadline

Non-profit Grants: March 1
*Grant awards will be announced in late May.

Individual Grants & Scholarships: March 1
*Grant awards will be announced in late May.

Who May Apply?

Non-profits: Applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) organizations located in and serving the citizens of Chemung, Schuyler, Steuben and/or Yates counties. The fund will make grant awards within the same geographic areas as the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc, Chemung, Schuyler, Steuben and Yates counties of New York.

Individuals: Applicants must live and/or work in the greater Southern Tier region. The fund will make grant awards within the same geographic area as the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc., Chemung, Schuyler, Steuben and Yates counties of New York.

What Activities Are Eligible for Funding?

Non-Profits: The targeted focus of the Fund for Women of the Southern Tier is on programs/projects that support the education and/or health of women and girls. Grants are made annually and on a competitive basis. Review the Fund for Women of the Southern Tier Rubric and Rating sheet to see the criteria with which your application is reviewed.

Nonprofit Grant Guidelines

Proposals from faith-based organizations will be considered if: (1) service benefits all, regardless of religion; (2) service provided is not religious in nature; and (3) there is no proselytizing associated with the service.

All programs that receive grant awards will be subject to a grant evaluation within one year of the grant date.

$500 Grants for Individuals: The Fund for Women of the Southern Tier, Inc. will award up to ten, $500 grants to girls and women. These grants are to be used to remove any barrier to the pursuit of their educational endeavors. Examples may include paying for college textbooks, technical supplies, assistance with past due tuition bills, fees for professional licensing exams, etc. Award criteria includes a demonstrated financial need.

$500 Grant Guidelines

$2500 Scholarships for Individuals: The Fund for Women of the Southern Tier, Inc. will award up to four, $2,500 educational scholarships. All scholarships are based on demonstrated financial need.

$2500 Scholarship Guidelines

How Should I Apply?

Nonprofits:

The Fund for Women of the Southern Tier accepts grant applications from nonprofits through an online application system, Foundant Grant Lifecycle Manager.

The first step will be to create a new account. You only need to do this once. If you’ve applied for other grants managed by the Community Foundation using the online system, please log on using your email and password.

All applications must include a completed project budget and expense form. This form is a fillable PDF. In addition, the online application will ask you to upload your organizations operating budget for the current year.

Project Budget Form

*Download the form and save to your computer, fill it out completely, save and upload a copy to your online application.

In addition, the online application will ask you to upload your organizations operating budget for the current year.

Fund For Women Evaluation Rubric & Rating

Nonprofits Apply Here

Grants for Individuals & Scholarships:

The Fund for Women of the Southern Tier accepts grant applications from individuals once per year. Individual applications are to be submitted through the online grant management system.

Click on the link below to begin your application. Please read the directions thoroughly and include all necessary documentation. The first step will be to create a new account. You only need to do this once.

Once you have created a new account, you will select Fund for Women of the Southern Tier – either $500 Grants or $2500 Scholarship.
In addition to answering a few basic questions, you will need to upload a 1-2 page essay. The essay should include:

An overview of your educational plans

Detail the specifics of how you plan to use the grant money toward educational expenses

An estimated budget of your expense items

You will also need to upload a copy of your or your parents/guardians most recent tax return and two letters of recommendation.

Individuals Apply Here

Questions? Contact the Vice President of Programs at (607) 739-3900, or by email at sep@communityfund.org.

Find Out More About the Fund For Women of the Southern Tier

To support or donate to the fund visit the Fund for Women by clicking the button below.

Fund For Women of the Southern Tier

Questions? Contact the Director, Grants & Communications at (607) 739-3900, or by email at sep@communityfund.org.

Central Christian Church Fund

The Central Christian Church Fund at the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes supports protestant governed human service organizations providing services in Chemung County, with funding priority given to programs supporting child care and parenting resources, elder care, hospice care, and substance abuse treatment.

Central Christian Church Guidelines

When should I apply?

The Foundation accepts applications to the Central Christian Church Fund once per year.

Application Deadline: March 1

Notification: Mid-May

Who May Apply?

Applicants must be from a nonprofit or community organization holding a current tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code

Protestant governed human service organizations providing services in Chemung County

The project takes place in Chemung County within New York State.

Funds being requested are for program or direct service

Funding priority given to programs supporting child care and parenting resources, elder care, hospice care, and substance abuse treatment

How should I apply?

The Community Foundation accepts grant applications to its Central Christian Church Fund through an online application system.

The first step will be to create a new account. You only need to do this once.

Grant System Tutorial

Project Budget & Expense Form

PRIVATE SCHOOLS AND/OR TUITION BASED PROJECTS must also complete and upload the operating budget and school demographics form.

Operating Budget & School Demographics

Apply Here

Community Grant Program

The Community Grant Program is an open, competitive program through which grants are made to nonprofit organizations residing in and serving the citizens of Chemung and Southeastern Steuben counties. A panel of community members review and recommend grant awards to the Community Foundation’s Board of Directors.

Program Grants are made annually in the areas of the arts, culture, education, youth, environment, animals, human services, and capacity building.

Unrestricted – General Operating Support Grants are two year, multi-year grants awarded to invest in the mission-building work of nonprofit organizations.

Nonprofit organizations may apply for a Program Grant OR an Unrestricted – General Operating Support Grant.

Application Deadlines

Letter of intent – June 1
Application – July 1
Notice of Grant Decision – mid-August

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Program Support

Community Foundation funds a wide variety of programs and projects across all program areas. Most grants, however, fall into three categories:

Program or Direct Service Grants – for costs associated with the implementation of the program

Capital Grants – for costs related to building construction, building renovation or capital equipment

Organizational Development and Capacity Building Grants - for costs related to activities such as strategic planning, board development, program planning, performance management and evaluation, succession planning or marketing and communications. Other organizational capacity areas under this category include business planning, fund development, facility planning and management systems (financial, HR, technology)

Guidelines for Grantseekers

Grant Application Question List

Program Support Budget Template

General Operating Support

Unrestricted – General Operating Support (GOS)Grants are an opportunity to provide nonprofits providing services for the residents of Chemung and/or Southeastern Steuben counties with unrestricted funding to achieve their missions. GOS grants are flexible, aim to support an organization’s ongoing administrative and infrastructure costs, and to maintain existing, effective programs.

General Operating Support grants have moved from an annual grant to a two-year, multi-year grant. Grantees are required to provide an interim report after year 1 of funding and a final report at the end of the two-year grant period.

Unrestricted - General Operating Support Guidelines for Grantseekers & FAQ

General Operating Support Question List

Who May Apply?

Refer to the Guidelines for information about eligibility:

Program Support Guidelines and FAQ
General Operating Support Guidelines and FAQ

What activities are ineligible for funding?

The Community Foundation generally does not make grants from unrestricted funds for the following:

Annual campaigns, special event fundraisers or sponsorships

Religious purposes

Political or partisan purposes

Activities taking place before grant decisions are made

Trips for schools or clubs

Deficit funding or debt retirement

Individuals (except through scholarships for education)

Application Submission

New applicants are strongly encouraged to discuss their grant request with Community Foundation staff before beginning the LOI process. If you are a previous grantee and will be applying for a new program, please contact our staff to discuss.

All applicants must submit a letter of intent prior to beginning an application. The letter of intent is within the online platform. Once your letter of intent has been submitted and successfully accepted, you will receive an email notifying you that you may begin your application.

Applicants should apply through the Community Foundation’s online platform (Foundant Grant Lifecycle Manager). The link to access the online application system can be found here.

How To Apply?

Apply Here

Follow-Up Reporting

If you’ve received a Community Grant Program grant award, you have one full year from the date of your award to complete the stated objectives in your application. At the end of the grant year, we ask that a follow-up report be completed.

Use this form to complete the follow-up budget detailing revenue and expenses for the program/project.

Follow-Up Budget Form

This form is an Excel file.
Download and save this form to your desktop, complete it in full, save (as a PDF if you can), and upload into your application.

Mini-Grants

The Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc. is grateful to support a wide variety of organizations through our Mini Grant Program. Mini grants are designed to fund new programs and projects that are small in scale, meet an unanticipated need or opportunity, or fall outside of our larger funding cycles. Programs that are annual or ongoing do not meet the criteria for application.

Programs or projects that are emergent – could not have been predicted or planned for, is an unforeseen or unexpected event signifying a new or pressing problem that needs to be addressed quickly, will receive funding priority.

Applications for programs or projects should be submitted at least 30 days in advance of the scheduled program but no more than 3 months.

Mini-grants range from $100 – $1,500 and are available on a rolling basis. Applications may be denied, funded partially or funded at the full amount requested.

The Community Foundation focuses mini-grant funding on Chemung and SE Steuben counties.

Grantees may apply for a mini-grant during an open grant cycle; however, they must be for different projects. *Grantees may apply for a mini-grant no more than 2 times per fiscal year (July 1 – June 30).

Award notification can be expected within 10 to 14 business days of applying.

*Additional restrictions exist for organizations that have received a General Operating Support grant in the most recent Community Grant Program cycle. These organizations may apply for a mini grant 1 time per fiscal year.

Open this link for a pdf of the Mini Grant Guidelines

When Should I Apply?

The Foundation accepts mini-grant requests with a rolling deadline throughout the year. Organizations may submit requests for funding up to $1,500 through our online application.

Notification of mini-grant awards takes approximately 10-14 business days. Grantees may apply for a mini-grant no more than 2 times per fiscal year (July 1 – June 30).

Organizations that have received a General Operating Support grant through the Community Grant Program may apply for a mini grant 1 time per year.

Apply Here

Deadline

Applications: rolling deadline, applications may be submitted at any time throughout the year.

Notification: approximately 2 weeks from application submission.

Who May Apply?

Applicants must be registered 501(c)3 organizations or have a fiscal sponsor and be located in and serving the citizens of Chemung and/or Southeastern Steuben counties, New York.

Mini-Grants are evaluated based on the availability of funds and community priorities.

Applications may be denied, funded partially or funded at the full amount requested

What Activities are Ineligible for Funding?

Individuals

Political or partisan activities

Organizational endowments

Scholarships

Religious activities

Retroactive expenses or activities that occur before notification of an award

Loan Payments

Where should I send my application?

Mini-Grant Applications are submitted online by using the online application form.

Questions? Contact the Vice President of Programs at 739-3900 or ses@communityfund.org.

Apply Here

What

We

Do.

What We Do.

Grant Process

Volunteer Grant Reviewer

Available Grant Programs

Community Grant Program

Central Christian Church Fund

Mini-Grants

Fund for Women Grants

Keuka Area Fund

Rose’s Youth Philanthropists (RYP)

Elmo M. Royce Youth Fund

Elmo M. Royce Camperships

Edith Saxton Fund for Steuben County Youth Services

The Harold and Winnie Watts Brand Park Trust

Schuyler County Fund

Twin Tiers Christian Service Fund