Grants Review Committees

Grants review volunteers are an integral part of our organization, ensuring the most qualified nonprofits are selected to present their transformational projects at the Big Give in May. In this important volunteer role, members work through our comprehensive process of determining our annual grant finalists. The volunteer commitment is approximately 3 hours per week for three months. This role is perfect for any member who wants to deepen her involvement, to learn about our local nonprofit partners and community issues and to build fellowship with other members. 

Grants Review Process

NEW FOR SEASON 2018-2019!  Volunteers are divided into committees to facilitate the grants review process. Each committee reviews applications from ALL focus areas. This new process ensures we consistently select the most qualified five finalists, regardless of focus area. It also allows us to divide applications evenly among committees so volunteers are not overwhelmed by the number of applications to review. 

Applicants self identify from one of these FIVE FOCUS AREAS:

Arts and Culture: Projects that develop and enrich the community and/or the lives of women, children and families through the expressive arts or enhanced cultural opportunities

Education: Projects that further the educational process or improve access to education for children and/or adults

Environment & Sustainability: Projects that restore, preserve, revitalize or enhance physical or natural surroundings, including indoor and outdoor recreational facilities and other buildings or structures

Family: Projects that strengthen and enhance the lives of children and families

Health & Wellness: Projects that improve the mental and/or physical well-being of people

Grants Review Volunteer Responsibilities

1. Attend a training workshop at the Community Foundation in March. (Date & Time TBD) This workshop is offered as an optional educational opportunity for all members but is required if you are a new grants review volunteer. (It is not required if you previously attended training.) 
   
2. Read and evaluate applications then attend a committee meeting in March to select up to three applicants for a site visit.
   
3. Go on a group site visit to at least one of your selected applicants to learn more about their grant project and to give feedback to your Site Visit Captain.
4. Attend a second committee meeting in April to select your finalist for the Big Give in May.