The Community Foundation of Frederick County

Strategic initiative grants - The Community Foundation identifies Community needs through periodic assessments and, based upon these findings, determines strategic priorities for its discretionary grantmaking. Qualified 501c3 organizations and government/quasi-government entities applying for funding programs not normally provided through tax revenue may apply for strategic funding. Applicants participate in a rigorous review process conducted by The Community Foundation's volunteer grants committee. Applicants must be in good standing with all state and federal registrations, and must provide descriptions of their programs, units of service, expected outcomes, and detailed financial information. Required reports ensure accountability.

Impact and other grants - The Community Foundation administers grants from field of interest, donor-advised and designated funds established by donors who want to create impact and support their favorite causes. Field of interest fund founders specify general areas for The Community Foundation to direct its grantmaking, but not specific nonprofits. Donor-advised fund founders recommend grants from their funds, with The Community Foundation board of trustees having final approval. Grants from designated funds support The Community causes identified in The agreement executed when The donor established The fund with The Community Foundation. All grantees must be in good standing with all state and federal registrations and some must provide descriptions of The impact of their programs and reports to ensure accountability.

Scholarships-the Community Foundation is one of The largest providers of scholarships in Frederick County, and administers The trumpower scholarships for carroll County residents. Scholarships are awarded to individuals pursuing education past high school, including two and four-year colleges and universities, trade and technical schools, masters and doctoral programs, and certifications. Students may apply for scholarships during any year of their academic careers, including non-traditional students who did not begin their post-secondary studies immediately following high school. The Community Foundation's volunteer scholarship committee reviews all applications and selects recipients that best match The criteria set forth by The donor when The scholarship fund was established. Scholarships are available for almost any area of study, some do not consider financial need as criteria, and some are renewable for one or more years. Additionally, some scholarships are offered for students ages 6 to 17 for music, instrumental, dance and vocal instruction and some are offered for youth ages 11 to 18 for athletic programs.