The City of Fairfax is announcing the Nonprofit Grants Program for the fiscal year 2025, aimed at supporting human services nonprofits that serve the residents of the city. This program offers two distinct grant options: the Standard Nonprofit Grant and the Mini-Grant. The Standard Nonprofit Grant provides funding ranging from $10,001 to $50,000, with a total allocation of $275,000 for the fiscal year. The Mini-Grant offers smaller funding amounts between $5,000 and $10,000, with a total of $25,000 available. The application deadline for both grant options is October 14, 2024.

The purpose of the Nonprofit Grants Program is to enhance the capacity of nonprofits to develop, expand, or improve services in four key areas: prevention and self-sufficiency, crisis intervention and diversion, long-term support, and improved quality of human services. The program seeks to assist individuals and families in becoming self-sufficient, provide immediate crisis support, offer long-term assistance, and enhance the overall quality and accessibility of human services in the community.

Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations certified as 501(c)(3) by the Internal Revenue Service and must either be located within the City of Fairfax or provide services to its residents. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate financial stability by submitting the last three years of IRS 990 forms and other relevant financial documentation. Organizations must also be in good standing with the Virginia State Corporation Commission and have a mission aligned with the city’s identified areas of need. It is important to note that funding cannot be allocated to organizations controlled by religious entities or used for religious purposes.

To be considered for funding, applicants must present a documented need for their services, demonstrate positive outcomes from their programs, and show that their services directly benefit City residents. Organizations must also prove they have the administrative capacity to manage the funds and implement the proposed services. A detailed budget outlining the costs associated with the grant proposal is required, along with evidence of efforts to secure funding from other sources.

The evaluation of applications will be based on several criteria, including the documented need for the program, the expected outcomes, the direct benefits to residents, and the overall enhancement of quality of life in the City of Fairfax. Organizations must also agree to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the City and adhere to reporting requirements.

The timeline for the grant program includes a submission deadline of October 14, 2024. Organizations interested in applying should prepare their applications in advance to ensure all requirements are met. For further information, applicants can visit the City of Fairfax website or contact the program coordinator via email.