The Community Foundation of the Lake (CFL) offers grants to enhance the quality of life in the Lake of the Ozarks area through a community-centered approach to grantmaking. Guided by a Board of Directors knowledgeable about the region, the CFL focuses on addressing pressing community needs with the flexibility afforded by unrestricted or field-of-interest funds. Grant proposals are reviewed by a dedicated grant committee, and awards are made based on available funds.

Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and other IRS-approved entities such as government bodies, school districts, and churches that serve the Lake of the Ozarks area. Applicants can request up to $5,000 in funding for this grant cycle. Proposals must adhere to the CFL’s non-discrimination policy, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status in either the grantee’s practices or in the use of grant funds.

The application process involves completing an online application form, with a strict character count applied to all responses, including spaces and punctuation. Applications are due by 11:45 PM on January 31, 2025. Prospective applicants are encouraged to ensure their submissions are thorough and comply with the format requirements.

For assistance, organizations can contact Dawn Busick (573-286-6796) for program-related questions or Latesa Carter (417-864-6199) for questions about the application process or technical support. Applicants should aim to clearly outline their projects, the community needs addressed, and how the requested funds will make an impact.

The CFL emphasizes the importance of inclusive and equitable access to its resources, reflecting a commitment to supporting diverse populations and organizations in the Lake of the Ozarks area. Interested applicants are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria and application guidelines carefully to maximize their chances of receiving funding.