The DACO Community Foundation Affiliate Grantmaking Program for FY25 offers funding to support projects that enhance the quality of life for residents of Dade County. Governed by a locally knowledgeable Board of Directors, DACO is committed to addressing the county’s most pressing needs through flexible, responsive grantmaking. The foundation’s grant committee, funded through donor-established unrestricted or field-of-interest funds and additional contributions, has discretion in distributing resources to align with community priorities. This program accepts proposals on an announced timetable, contingent on fund availability.

Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and other IRS-recognized entities, such as government bodies, school districts, and churches, provided they serve Dade County. Each applicant may request up to $1,000 in funding for projects that directly impact the county and its residents. Applications should be submitted by 11:45 p.m. on December 31, 2024, and applicants are advised to monitor the character count on responses, as the online system includes all characters—letters, numbers, spaces, and punctuation.

DACO upholds a strict non-discrimination policy, applying to both grant-making processes and grantee operations. In awarding funds, DACO and its affiliates of the Community Foundation of the Ozarks (CFO) do not discriminate based on race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status. Similarly, grantees are required to maintain non-discriminatory policies concerning employment and service access when using foundation funds.

For questions regarding the program, applicants should contact Renee Meents at meentskr@gmail.com or (417) 224-2864. Any technical inquiries or questions about the application process can be directed to Latesa Carter at 417-864-6199.