Fundraising is vital to the operation of community nonprofits, says Elaina Stiffler, executive director of Your Community Foundation. Especially now, when the future of federal grants grows more uncertain each day.
While a funding freeze initiated by the Trump administration in late January has put federal funds in jeopardy for many organizations, Stiffler notes that Your Community Foundation (YCF) can provide some stability to local nonprofits.
YCF can help fill the gaps, Stiffler said, especially in times of emergency.
The foundation’s funding is made possible by taking a percentage of the interest YCF earns on its investments. The organization’s grant cycle runs from July 1 to Sept. 1.
MORE information regarding YCF’s grant process will be shared at a workshop the foundation is hosting on Thursday, March 20, to help local nonprofits and interested individuals navigate the world of fundraising. “While nonprofits are our target audience for the workshop, you don’t have to be with one to attend,” noted Stiffler. “It is open to the public.”
In 2024, YCF awarded nine grants totaling $15,000. Awardees included:
• Allen Regional Transit: $2,000 to help with operating expenses.
• Elsmore Ruritan: $2,000 for their food pantry.
• Hope Unlimited: $500 for building renovations.
• Humanity House: $2,500 for Christmas food boxes.
• Humboldt Lion’s Club: $2,000 for renovations to their vision screener.
• Iola Middle School: $2,000 to purchase an automated external defibrillator (AED) for traveling with sports teams.
• Marmaton Valley High School: $1,000 for renovations to its weight room.
• Moran Youth Recreation: $1,000 to purchase recreational equipment and jerseys.
• Pregnancy and Family Center: $2,000 for car seats and bedside sleepers.
