Frequently Asked Questions about
the Lifeline Initiative
Who can apply for a Lifeline Initiative grant?
Nonprofit organizations recognized under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and in good standing with the IRS are eligible to apply for grants that will benefit residents of Kalamazoo County. Applicant agencies do not need to be United Way member agencies. Organizations that have had tax-exempt status suspended by the Internal Revenue Service are not eligible to receive grants.
How much money is available?
Our goal is to distribute up to $1 million in 2012.
How are grant decisions made?
Grant applications will be reviewed and award recommendations will be made by a grant distribution committee consisting of volunteers representing both the Community Foundation and United Way. The grantmaking process will be guided by Community Foundation and United Way community investment staff members.
When will my agency be notified of the grant decision?
You will be notified within eight weeks of the grant application deadline.
What makes a compelling grant request?
The most competitive grant requests will support vulnerable families in our community and have a strong fit with the Lifeline Initiative's funding priorities, address an urgent community need, maintain or increase capacity of existing services, and include a sound plan for meeting the need and measuring the impact of program services. Your agency must have a proven track record of effectively managing quality programs and an ability to positively impact the target population. Your agency also must demonstrate it does not have funds available to meet the need it wishes to address.
What are the reporting requirements?
All agencies receiving support from the Lifeline Initiative are required to submit an online grant report at the end (as specified by the agency) of the funded project. Agencies will be notified of the final report's due date, and will have up to two months to complete the report.
If you have additional questions about the Lifeline Initiative grantmaking process, please contact:
Sharon Anderson
Kalamazoo Community Foundation
sanderson@kalfound.org
269.381.4416
Denise Hartsough
Greater Kalamazoo United Way
dhartsough@gkuw.org
269.343.2524