The McHenry County Community Foundation looks for projects and programs where a moderate amount of grant money can produce a significant result. Proposals must fall within the purpose of the fund to which you are applying. We look for innovative but practical approaches to solving community problems, especially those not currently being met by an existing organization. Applicants should show a well-planned approach to address important community issues; a sound base of support (financial, participatory and voluntary); efficient use of community resources; involvement of underserved constituencies; and coordination, cooperation and sharing among nonprofit organizations and elimination of project duplication. Organizations should demonstrate present and future sustainability and provide identifiable outcomes of the proposed project or program.
The Board of Directors of the McHenry County Community Foundation has developed a procedure for submission and evaluation of grant proposals. The Grants Committee carefully reviews and considers first the "Letter of Inquiry Form" as submitted by prospective grant seekers, and subsequently invites those organizations demonstrating the greatest need/community benefit for that given cycle to submit "Full Proposals." Because of time constraints, all proposals must be submitted in writing – no personal presentations are accepted. The Grants Committee makes its recommendation to the Board of Directors which must give final approval for the funding.
The Community Foundation welcomes proposals from any non-profit organization with an IRS tax exempt status that services McHenry County residents. Generally grants are awarded between $1,000 and $7,500.
Download Grant Application Cover Sheet (PDF)
Download Full Proposal Direction Sheet(PDF)
2009/2010 GRANT CYCLE COMPLETE SCHEDULE TIMELINE
Grants are not made to Type III Support Organizations as that term is used in Section 4943 (f) (5) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Fundraising expenses for a donor's Fund cannot be granted or expensed from said Fund.
Grants that have a direct benefit for fund holder or immediate family members cannot be awarded.
Grants are not made to political candidates or for lobbying efforts.
Grants are not made to individuals. Scholarship awards are granted to the (1) educational institution or (2) educational institution and the student recipient.
Grants are not made in support of religious proselytizing
Grants are not made to reduce operating deficits or liquidate existing debt
Exceptions to the above guidelines are made only for those donor gifts that are given with explicit instructions and/or restrictions.
