Grants
About Grants
At Helping Hands Community Center, we strive to make our grant application process accessible and transparent for organizations and individuals seeking funding. Our grant process begins with an eligibility review, where applicants must meet specific criteria aligned with our mission and funding priorities. Once eligibility is confirmed, applicants submit a detailed proposal outlining their project, goals, budget, and expected impact. Our review committee carefully evaluates each submission based on need, feasibility, and alignment with our values. Selected applicants may be invited for an interview or to provide additional documentation. Once approved, grant recipients receive funding in accordance with our disbursement schedule and must submit progress reports to ensure accountability and demonstrate impact. We are committed to supporting initiatives that create meaningful change in our community.
The Grant Process
The grant process for nonprofits typically involves several key steps to ensure funding is allocated effectively. First, applicants must review the grant guidelines to determine eligibility based on the funder's mission and priorities. Next, they submit a letter of intent (LOI) or pre-application, briefly outlining their project and funding needs. If invited to proceed, applicants then prepare a full proposal, which includes a detailed project description, objectives, budget, timeline, and expected impact. Once submitted, proposals undergo a review process, where a committee evaluates them based on criteria such as feasibility, alignment with goals, and potential community impact. Shortlisted applicants may be required to provide additional documentation, attend an interview, or present their project. Once a grant is awarded, recipients must sign an agreement, outlining reporting and compliance requirements. Funds are then distributed according to the disbursement schedule, and grantees must submit progress reports and financial statements to demonstrate accountability and effectiveness. Many funders also conduct a final evaluation to assess the overall success of the funded initiative.
What Happens After a Grant is Awarded?
Once a grant is awarded, recipients are expected to follow a structured plan to ensure the funds are used effectively. This includes adhering to the approved budget, meeting project milestones, and submitting regular progress reports. Many funders require financial statements and impact reports to track how the funding is making a difference in the community. In some cases, site visits or check-in meetings may be scheduled to provide guidance and ensure compliance with grant requirements. At Helping Hands Community Center, we believe in building lasting partnerships, so we offer continued support, networking opportunities, and additional resources to help grantees achieve their goals. At the conclusion of the grant period, recipients may be asked to submit a final report summarizing their accomplishments, challenges, and long-term sustainability plans. Successful completion of a grant can also open doors for future funding opportunities.