At United Way of Sandusky County, we provide Community Impact Grants to address our community’s greatest needs and foster positive change. These grants are awarded annually through a competitive application process, ensuring that funds are invested in high-performing nonprofit organizations. Our focus is on supporting programs and services that align with our four strategic priority areas: Youth Opportunity, Healthy Community, Financial Security, and Community Resilience. By partnering with these dedicated organizations, we aim to improve local community conditions and enhance the quality of life for all residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
When are applications accepted?
The application process to apply for the next Community Impact Grants opens January 13, 2025. The deadline to apply is March 7, 2025, at noon.
Do I need to attend an informational meeting before applying?
Yes, a mandatory meeting is scheduled for January 8, 2024, from 10-11:00 am in the Keen Building at Community Health Services, 2221 Hayes Ave, Fremont, OH. Each non-profit organization wishing to apply for grant funding must send a representative to the meeting. Registration is required for the meeting. Contact Rachel McCoy at 419-334-8938 or marketing@uwsandco.org to register.
Who is eligible to apply for a Community Impact Grant?
All applicant organizations must meet the following criteria.
- Serve the residents Sandusky County.
- Be non-profit organizations exempt from income taxes as determined by the Internal Revenue Code.
- Be an incorporated not-for-profit and have a registered constitution and/or bylaws.
- Have an active and responsible governing board of three or more, whose members have no material conflict of interest and a majority of whom serve without compensation, which directs the organization.
- Provide a copy of the most recently completed and signed IRS Form 990 covering the fiscal year ending not more than 18 months prior to application unless the organization is not required to file a full IRS Form 990.
- Maintain an administrative and fundraising rate (AFR) of less than 25% of total revenue.
- If the nonprofit’s annual revenue is $500,000 or greater, provide audited financial statements for the organization covering the fiscal year ending not more than 18 months prior to application. The audit must express an unqualified opinion and must be conducted by an independent Certified Public Accountant in accordance with Generally Accepted Auditing Standards (GAAS). Cash basis, cash modified, or modified accrual basis of accounting are unacceptable.
- If the nonprofit’s annual revenue is $250,000 or greater, but less than $500,000, provide audited or reviewed financial statements for the organization covering the fiscal year ending not more than 18 months prior to application. The audit must express an unqualified opinion and must be conducted by an independent Certified Public Accountant in accordance with Generally Accepted Auditing Standards (GAAS). The review must be in accordance with Statements on Standards for Accounting and Review Services issued by the accounting and Review services Committee of the AICPA. The conclusion of the review must state that there are no material modifications that should be made to the financial statements in order for them to be in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). Cash basis, cash modified, or modified accrual basis of accounting are unacceptable.
- If the nonprofit’s annual revenue is less than $250,000 provide a Review or Financial Compilation for the organization conducted by an independent Certified Public Accountant in accordance with Generally Accepted Auditing Standards (GAAS) covering the fiscal year ending not more than 18 months prior to application. Cash basis, cash modified, or modified accrual basis of accounting are unacceptable. Be able to certify that it has controls in place to ensure funds are properly accounted for and that it can provide accurate timely financial information to interested parties.
- Have a policy and demonstrate a practice of non-discrimination as it relates to the operation of the organization, including service delivery, on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, physical or mental health, sexual orientation or any characteristic protected by law.
What is the funding cycle?
The funding cycle will run from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026.
How is the funding for each program determined?
Each year, United Way raises funds through an Annual Campaign. Donations not already designated by donors are allocated to nonprofits through the Grant Funding Cycle. Applications are reviewed, evaluated, and approved by volunteer board members.
When will funding decisions be sent out?
Organizations are notified of the funding decisions in late May. Grant awardees are sent grant agreements to be signed and returned to United Way by June 27, 2025.