The Guilford Foundation (TGF) announced its 2024 annual grant deadline is March 15, 2024. Last year, TGF awarded 28 competitive grants to community-serving organizations, ranging from $1,000 to $12,000, with an average award of $4,000.

“Our annual grantmaking is really at the heart of local philanthropy. It’s remarkable how seemingly small grants can have such profound impact, whether it’s providing vital resources like new computers to enhance the efficiency of Guilford Interfaith Volunteers Meals on Wheels program, offering full-year tuition assistance for families in need for the Guilford Before and After Care program, alleviating the burden of rising food costs at the Community Dining Room, or fostering inclusive programming at Gavin and Friends, a new in-town learning center for those with special needs,” explained Liza Janseen Petra.  “We welcome applications from all nonprofit organizations dedicated to serving the Guilford community, recognizing the transformative power of collective giving.”

TGF’s Community Investment Committee prioritized the following areas of focus for grantmaking in 2024: 

• Basic Needs (especially as related to assisting those individuals and families most at risk)
  • Priority services include food, shelter, emergency financial assistance
• Strengthening Our Community
  • Child and Youth Development (childcare, development, education)
  • Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion (JEDI)
  • Arts and Culture
  • Other innovative initiatives that promote strengthening our Guilford Community
• Mental Health (mental health, substance misuse, etc.)
  • Promoting awareness, prevention, and intervention

TGF’s guiding principles evolve yearly, ensuring funding priorities align with the community’s ever-changing needs and increase its impact.  

Petra added, “Our mission is to forge meaningful connections between compassionate individuals and the causes close to their hearts. None of this would be possible without the unwavering support of our donors, whose generosity not only bolsters our endowment but also amplifies our impact within the community. Through their generous contributions, we can nurture and expand our investments in the betterment of our community, ensuring a legacy of positive change for generations to come.”

Grant Submission Recommendations
The Guilford Foundation seeks grants that enhance the quality of life for the community. Applications should align their need with a focus area and demonstrate the potential impact on the organization, project, community, or persons served.

Information about the grant process is available in the Online Grants Portal. Before beginning a 2024 application, organizations should carefully review the grant guidelines. A virtual Grant Application Workshop will be held on Wednesday, February 21, at 10 am to review the process and answer questions. Details for the workshop will be emailed to registered participants; RSVP to Amy Paris at [email protected].