The Gail Deimler Charitable Fund, administered by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities (TFEC), is a philanthropic initiative dedicated to continuing the generous spirit of its namesake, Gail Deimler. A lifelong IBM employee and avid traveler and reader, Gail Deimler was passionate about helping those in need. Her legacy continues through this charitable fund, which supports nonprofit projects focused on assisting vulnerable populations in specific Pennsylvania counties.

The grant offers up to $10,000 in funding and is designed to support programs and services that benefit individuals in need, address healthcare issues, and provide hospice services. Eligible service areas include the counties of Cumberland, Dauphin, Perry, Franklin, Lebanon, and Northern York. Funding is reserved for nonprofit organizations holding 501(c)(3) status or those with a qualified fiscal sponsor. Grants must align with the fund’s mission to support community health and human services in the designated regions.

Applications for the Gail Deimler Charitable Fund open on February 1, 2025, and close on May 1, 2025. Award notifications will be sent out by August 1, 2025. Funded projects must take place between September 1, 2025, and August 31, 2026. Only activities occurring within this grant period will be considered for funding. Applicants may request a draft review of their proposals up to two weeks before the application deadline by contacting TFEC’s Community Investment Team.

The fund does not support advertising, capital campaigns, retroactive projects, lobbying, religious activities, individuals, or staffing expenses lacking a sustainability plan. Applicants must demonstrate a clear project narrative, a diversified funding plan, measurable outcomes, and inclusive practices. The advisory committee evaluates proposals using a 50-point system based on alignment with the fund’s mission, clarity of roles, fiscal responsibility, and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The grant evaluation process is managed by the Gail Deimler Charitable Fund Advisory Committee. Reviewers may request additional information, site visits, or interviews to fully assess proposals. Inquiries and application support are available from TFEC’s Community Investment Team at grants@tfec.org or 717-236-5040. Individual contacts include Caitlin Cluck, Yamit Friedman, and Teresa Gonzalez, all based at TFEC’s Harrisburg office at 200 N. 3rd Street, 8th Floor, Harrisburg, PA 17101.