Writing Grants for Faith-Based Organizations and Community Non-Profits

Writing Grants for Faith-Based Organizations and Community Non-Profits Section 1 "Identifying Sources for Grants" Grants are a different type of fundraising. Within any community, small town, or major city there are businesses and industries that are part of a franchise, or owned by a national chain. These businesses have foundations. Foundations give money. In Section 1, you'll understand about funding from local foundations, corporate support, and community foundations. This book does not address the large federal grants, but the basic information can be applied to any type grant. Section 2 "Key Areas of the Application" Virtually all grants require detailed information in certain key areas. A rule of thumb: Always follow the prescribed format, and place the requested information within the appropriate section. Different foundations use basic headings and subheadings-however, follow the guidelines for specific grants. Section 3 "Tips for Being Funded" Knowing what works-and what doesn't-often determines if your grant is funded or rejected. Simple, common sense practices "can" make a difference Section 4 "Selecting a Grant-Writing Committee" Selecting a group of creative people who can work together, complete a project, and follow-up with a final report are crucial to the success of a grant. This section offers advice on finding those people within your organization. Bonus To simplify grant writing, I've included examples of forms that will make the process easier. Understanding how to fill out forms will remove some of the anxiety of this process. When faced with a difficult project, I've discovered that if I do a "task analysis," I can break it down into manageable parts. This removes some of the fear of a new or unknown undertaking. A glossary of terms associated with grant writing will prove helpful as you work with funders who represent individual foundations and corporations. The Appendix also contains a published article on "Funding Your Ministry Through Grants" that was published online for www.childrensministry.com/readers. Additional space provides pages for notes as you research grants to fund your project. In your search, identify the gap in what your organization has and what it needs to run an effective program. Where is the gap? How can a funder fulfill that gap? And then, match the need to the funder. When you've answered these questions, you're on your way to securing funds for specific needs. I believe that writing is a gift from God. He gives us the talent and it's up to us to learn the mechanics of putting words on paper. A Bible verse that has given me hope follows: "But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint" (Isaiah 40:31).