The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation is currently accepting applications for its Quality of Life Grants, which aim to support organizations that address the needs of individuals living with paralysis due to spinal cord injuries, diseases, or birth conditions. This grant program is designed to enhance the quality of life for these individuals and their families by funding a variety of projects and initiatives. The grants are available to organizations across the United States, with a maximum funding amount of up to $50,000 for specific projects, and the grant duration can extend up to two years.

The Quality of Life Grants are categorized into several tiers based on the type of impact they aim to achieve. The Direct Effect grants, which fall under Tier 1, provide funding ranging from $5,000 to $24,999 for projects that have a clear and immediate impact on individuals living with paralysis. The Priority Impact grants, divided into Tiers 2 through 4, focus on specific priority areas such as assistive technology, disaster preparedness, and employment, with funding amounts increasing from $30,000 to $50,000 depending on the tier. Additionally, the Expanded Impact grants, categorized as Tier 5, are available for previously funded projects that have demonstrated significant success and can receive up to $100,000 for further expansion.

Organizations that are eligible to apply for these grants include local grassroots nonprofits, established nonprofit agencies, municipalities, schools, parks and recreation departments, tribal entities, and large national nonprofit organizations. To qualify, applicants must have a 501(c)(3) tax status or be part of a national organization that holds this status. The Reeve Foundation does not accept applications from individuals or fiscal sponsors on behalf of non-501(c)(3) organizations.

The Reeve Foundation prioritizes applications from organizations that serve returning wounded military personnel and their families, as well as those that provide targeted services to diverse cultural communities and underserved populations. This includes groups such as ethnic minorities, individuals at risk of incarceration, and those with limited English proficiency. The foundation emphasizes the importance of addressing the needs of newly injured individuals and their caregivers.

The application process requires organizations to submit detailed proposals that outline their projects and how they will benefit individuals living with paralysis. Evaluation criteria will focus on the clarity of the project’s goals, the potential impact on the target population, and the feasibility of the proposed activities. The timeline for project completion varies by tier, with Tier 1 and Tier 2 projects expected to be completed within 12 months, Tier 3 projects within 18 months, and Tiers 4 and 5 within 24 months.

The deadline for submitting applications for the Quality of Life Grants is October 8, 2024. Interested organizations are encouraged to visit the Reeve Foundation's website for more information and to access the application materials. For any inquiries, applicants can reach out to the foundation via email at QOL@Reeve.org. This grant opportunity represents a significant resource for organizations dedicated to improving the lives of individuals affected by paralysis.