The Community Foundation of Southeastern Connecticut

CFSECT Tips for Let’s Read Grantseekers

Getting started:

  • Focus on your program’s purpose or your organization’s core mission, then seek appropriate funding sources.
  • Look for grant opportunities that align with your mission or program purpose.
  • Talk to the Foundation’s staff with your ideas. This can save you time and help shape your proposal.
  • Look for funding from a variety of sources.
  • Make sure you have completed any outstanding grant reports (we will not fund an organization with a delinquent grant report).

 

Grant process:

  • All grant applications are reviewed by a committee of volunteers as well as Foundation staff.
  • Site visits or phone interviews may be requested during the review process.
  • The grant process will take several weeks. Grants will be made for programs to be implemented after May; we do not fund retroactively.

 

Using the guidelines:

  • Answer all questions asked.
  • Adhere to deadlines. Late applications will not be considered.
  • Complete all sections in full; be sure to include the proposal cover sheet page.
  • Provide all requested documentation, including letters of agreement if working with another organization.

 

Writing your proposal:

  • Do not assume the reader knows anything about your program, even if you have spoken to the Foundation staff. Proposals are reviewed by a committee of community volunteers.
  • Demonstrate that your proposal meets one or more of the literacy objectives listed in the request for proposals. Priority will be given to programs that go beyond offering a child a book.
  • We suggest that you have another person proofread your proposal before mailing.

 

Evaluation:

  • Focus on how your program will change lives rather than just numbers served.
  • Remember: outcomes are measured by characteristics that tell whether change has occurred. These indicators are concrete, objective and demonstrate that a specific change has taken place. To be useful, they must be countable or observable.

 

Planning for a site visit:

  • Show the grants committee member what you do. Try to schedule visits when activities are in progress.
  • Be prepared to answer specific questions about the program.
  • Include program staff and/or board members in the site visit.

 

Budget:

  • Make sure budget items are well-defined for a clear understanding of how the grant will be spent.
  • Examine all expenses to ensure cost effectiveness.
  • If you are using a fiscal agent, the Foundation holds that agent responsible for proper use of grant funds.