The Ethel Sergeant Clark Smith Memorial Fund provides grants in the areas of medical, educational, cultural, arts, health, and human services, as well as other areas determined by the trustee to meet evolving community needs. The foundation operates with a focus on Southeastern Pennsylvania, specifically Delaware County, where it aims to support organizations that address local needs. The foundation's grants are aimed at capital projects, operating expenses, and special programs, with an emphasis on supporting initiatives that align with community welfare and cultural advancement. The program seeks to make meaningful contributions to the success of individual endeavors, and although it is flexible, the foundation is particularly focused on medical, educational, cultural, arts, and health-related services. The foundation adapts to changes in Delaware County's needs over time, ensuring its responsiveness to the evolving community landscape.

Eligible organizations must qualify as exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The fund is specifically available to organizations in Southeastern Pennsylvania, with a primary emphasis on Delaware County. Organizations must submit a complete project budget to be considered for funding, and applications are only accepted by the semi-annual deadlines: March 1 and September 1. The trustee, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., reviews all applications in collaboration with an advisory committee composed of local experts who assist in assessing the community's changing needs. The final decision on applications rests with the trustee.

The foundation generally awards grants in the range of $5,000 to $25,000, with the exact amount determined based on the organization's needs and the scope of the proposed project. While grants can be used for capital projects, operating expenses, or special programs, operating expense grants are typically reserved for organizations without capital needs, and when continued funding is not expected. However, there are limitations, including no funding for deficit financing, renovations to real estate not owned by the applicant organization, salaries, professional fundraiser fees, or multi-year grants exceeding three years.

In addition, the foundation maintains specific restrictions on the frequency of grants to the same organization. Any organization that receives a grant three years in a row must wait one year before applying for a new grant. The foundation also does not approve grants for an organization more than once in a given year. A progress report must be submitted within six months after receiving funds, and failure to provide the report could result in the return of the granted funds.

Applications for grants are reviewed twice a year, and the foundation communicates grant decisions by June and December, depending on when applications are received. The review is conducted by the advisory committee, with final decisions made by the trustee. The fund does not provide grants to any organization more than once in a calendar year or for three consecutive years. The application process is straightforward, with no program limitations other than those stated above. However, the foundation emphasizes the need for eligible organizations to maintain clear, timely reporting to ensure continued support.