Operations Grantmaking 2008
Based on a year of introspective analysis and the Nonprofit Focus Group Summary, The Jackson Community Foundation has embraced an enhanced and more flexible grantmaking strategy. This underscores our commitment to contributing to the betterment of the nonprofit community as a whole in Jackson County. This is a departure from our current policies and is a direct result from feedback received during anonymous focus groups, Emeritus Trustees, donors, and grantmaking trends.
By piloting this new direction in 2008, we will work with nonprofits to improve their organizational effectiveness through supporting operations grantmaking. These grants will be considered for organizations who desire to make an investment in business and management practices that enable organizations to better meet their missions. In addition, Foundation staff will emphasize the ability to make capacity building grants which already fall under the Unrestricted Grantmaking Policies. This strategy will complement the existing Unrestricted Grantmaking Program. In addition, reflecting on our past experiences and the nonprofit history in Jackson, JCF desires ensure nonprofit survival as they are community assets.
What is the Purpose of the New Grantmaking Strategy?
The Foundation believes that the best way to support the nonprofit sector is to invest in activities that will strengthen nonprofit organizations' operations and planning so they can better deliver critical services and programs to the community. There will not be a limit to these grantmaking categories; rather JCF will consider them on a first come, first served basis. |
What Does the Term "Operations" Mean?
Operations refers to general operating support grants where funds are unrestricted for use by high performing nonprofit organizations. These grants allow nonprofits to maintain infrastructure to ensure service delivery.
How Will JCF Fund?
The Jackson Community Foundation is committed to the nonprofit community and will review all grant requests during three grant rounds. Prior to seeking an application for an Operations request an organization must present their concept to The Jackson Community Foundation program staff. The presentation can be through an individualized meeting with Foundation program staff or through submission of an outline. In order to give yourself ample time to complete a qualified application, you must obtain approval in advance of the due date you are targeting. Once approval of a concept is obtained then an Operations Grant Application will be given to the organization. These due dates are January 15th, May 15th, and September 15th by 5:00 pm. If this date falls on a weekend or holiday then applications will be due the following business day.
What Does "Capacity Building" Mean?
Capacity Building refers to improving a wide range of capabilities, knowledge and resources that nonprofits need to be effective. "Effective" is defined as the ability of an organization to fulfill its mission through a blend of sound management, strong governance, and persistent dedication to achieving results.
How Do I Apply?
The Jackson Community Foundation will review Capacity Building requests through the Unrestricted Community Needs Grantmaking Process.
Who Will JCF Fund?
Nonprofits with the Federal 501c(3) status whose mission includes serving Jackson County residents. |
