The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties is inviting applications for its Senior Grant Round, aimed at supporting nonprofit organizations that provide services and programs for older adults in Herkimer and Oneida counties in New York. The foundation is offering grants of up to $20,000 to eligible organizations that focus on promoting healthy lifestyles and improving access to community resources for older adults. The application deadline for this grant is September 30, 2024.

The primary purpose of the Senior Grant Program is to enhance the quality of life for older adults by funding innovative service delivery programs or expanding existing successful programs. The grant can be used for various initiatives, including capital projects such as repairs, technology upgrades, and the purchase of equipment or furnishings. Examples of potential funding areas include health, wellness, recreation, socialization, and education programs specifically designed for older adults.

Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organizations, organizations with a 501(c)(3) fiscal sponsor, or faith-based organizations that address non-religious needs. These organizations should serve diverse populations without regard to religious affiliation. It is important to note that new programs or projects seeking funding must not commence before October 2024, and any expenses incurred prior to this date will not be eligible for funding. Each organization is limited to one application submission.

Ineligible funding requests include financial assistance, scholarships, or loans to individuals, funding for religious programming, organizational payroll and operational costs, and expenses related to projects that are already in progress or completed. All proposed programs or projects must have measurable outcomes and a clear timeline for achieving these outcomes.

The application process requires organizations to provide detailed information about their proposed projects, including objectives, expected outcomes, and how the funding will be utilized. Specific application questions may be outlined in the application guidelines provided by the foundation.

Evaluation criteria for the grant will focus on the clarity of the project goals, the potential impact on older adults, and the feasibility of the proposed timeline and outcomes. The foundation aims to support projects that demonstrate a clear benefit to the community and align with its mission to enhance the lives of older adults in the region.

For further details, interested organizations can visit the Community Foundation's website. The grant program is part of the foundation's ongoing commitment to community investments and support for local initiatives that improve the well-being of residents in Herkimer and Oneida counties.