Berrien Community Foundation is now seeking letters of intent from local nonprofits for the $75,000 Alamar Nonprofit Sustainability Grant, which are due May 1, 2025. The winning project will focus on the sustainability of an organization and improve the quality of life for its employees.
“Nonprofits thrive when they prioritize both sustainability and the well-being of their employees,” said Lisa Cripps-Downey, Berrien Community Foundation president. “The Alamar Grant recognizes that lasting impact comes from organizations that not only serve their communities but also invest in the people who make that service possible. By supporting operational stability and staff care, we can ensure that nonprofits continue their mission for years to come.”
This grant opportunity is open to nonprofits serving Berrien County. The first step in the application process is to submit a letter of intent. Letters should include why and how the project would have a positive impact on employees, and how the project is sustainable. The full grant will be paid over three years. For additional guidelines, visit www.berriencommunity.org/alamar.
The first Alamar Nonprofit Sustainability Grant was awarded in 2019 to St. Joseph Today to provide health insurance and a retirement plan for their employees. Previous winners include OutCenter, which was able to hire development staff to support the organization’s long-term growth; Benton Harbor Community Development Corporation to hire a fundraising professional to help the nonprofit scale in size and impact; and Court Appointed Special Advocates of Southwest Michigan, which was able to invest in training, coaching and counseling to help their staff manage stress and prevent burnout.
The Alamar Nonprofit Sustainability Grant was started by an anonymous donor who was troubled when they saw nonprofit employees working long hours for lower pay and often without benefits. Winning projects will demonstrate creativity in exploring how to take care of employees and find organizational sustainability.
A select number of applicants will move on to the second stage where standard grant applications are submitted. The winning project will be announced at BCF’s Annual Meeting & Celebration in October.
The deadline to apply is May 1, 2025. For more information on the grant, letter guidelines or to access the submission form, visit www.berriencommunity.org/alamar.
All Rights Reserved.