Grant Information

Community Health Foundation is committed to solving problems by encouraging collaboration among service providers and providing grants to high quality organizations that are dedicated to improving the lives of youth, families and seniors in Southern Sonoma County (Petaluma and surrounding rural areas).

For FY 2011, CHF will be distributing up to $125,000 in grants, ranging from $2,000 to $20,000. To qualify, organizations must have a current IRS 501(c) (3) designation.

Priority will be given to those organizations that:

• Primarily serve the greater Petaluma area
• Collaborate with other organizations in addressing challenges and needs
• Demonstrate positive impact from services provided
• Provide programs that serve our target populations

Youth

• Activities that encourage positive choices, leadership activities and the opportunities for civic engagement
• Services that help youth successfully cope with the challenges of adolescence
• Activities which are designed to prevent at-risk behaviors
• Programs that re-direct youth from engaging in illegal or unhealthy behaviors

Families

• Programs that provide support to families and individuals facing a variety of day-to-day mental, physical, and/or economic challenges
• Activities which assist families to remain intact and functional
• Services that strengthen families

Seniors

• Activities which help maintain independent living and personal independence
• Programs which are designed to enhance independent living opportunities, such as affordable housing, meal delivery, transportation, counseling and case management
• Programs that provide assistance with basic needs that help a senior live with security, dignity and respect

The initial application is a 2 to 3 page Letter of Inquiry (Tax ID # included), due December 15, 2010, which provides the following information:

• Who: A very brief summary of your organization's mission and primary goals
• What and How: A concise problem statement and measurable objectives that demonstrate positive impact in addressing the challenges identified
• When: A timeframe for proposed activities
• Request: A specific request and how it relates to the total project or organizational budget

Site visits will be conducted for those organizations selected for further consideration. Based on the site visit, additional information may be required. Final decisions will be made by the Grant Committee and announced March 17, 2011. Awards will be disbursed in the beginning of July, 2011. Interim and final reports will be required to document use and impact of the grant award.

Applicants may contact Marilyn Segal, Executive Director, at 773-3863 with any questions.