Community Foundation’s 2025 competitive grant program opens for applications Oct. 1

LOCK HAVEN – The Clinton County Community Foundation has provided millions of dollars to community nonprofits, charities, fire and ambulance companies and municipalities serving the county since its inception in 1968.

And thanks to the many benevolent donors over the years who want to see a strong Clinton County, the giving continues.

The Foundation’s next round of grant applications for 2025 may be submitted starting Tuesday, Oct. 1. The deadline by which to submit a 2025 grant application is 5 p.m. Monday, Dec. 2.

“The board of directors moved the deadline up this year, so applicants need to be aware that the deadline to submit is right after the Thanksgiving holiday and about two weeks earlier than in previous years,” explained Dennis Trout, Foundation board president.

Having approved nearly $600,000 in grants, committed funds and scholarships this calendar year, the Foundation is looking to another robust grant round in 2025.

Earlier this year, the Foundation board of directors reviewed over 75 grant applications before narrowing the field to just over 60.

Eligible organizations must be located within Clinton County, Pa., or demonstrate their services benefit residents in Clinton County. Applicants must be either a governmental unit/political subdivision or a nonprofit organization with a 501(c) designation recognized by the IRS.

Grant funds are not intended for administration or labor costs.

Deadlines

Here are important dates and information requirements to remember:

• Applications sent via U.S. Postal mail to CCCF must be postmarked no later than Dec. 2, 2024.
• Applications that are hand-delivered must be received at 350 East Water Street, Lock Haven, by 5 p.m. Monday, Dec. 2.
• The Foundation requires 11 paper copies of the grant application and supporting documents, but just one copy of the applicant’s IRS 990, IRS 501(c) letter and Pennsylvania Bureau of Charitable Organizations (BOCO) certificate or exemption letter.
• Decisions on all eligible applications are scheduled to be made by the Board of Directors in late January 2025 at the Foundation’s annual meeting.
• Approved grant recipients are required to sign a grant agreement and return it to the Foundation soon after receiving it, but no later than March 31, 2025, in order to receive their grant money.
• All 2025 grant recipients must submit an evaluative report to the CCCF by Dec. 1, 2025, outlining how and why the funds were spent, and providing key receipts.

The Foundation’s grant guidelines make it easy to submit a proposal, Rolley said.

“The first step in applying is going to the Foundation web site at www.clintoncountyfoundation.org and downloading a grant guidelines-application form. Click on the “Grants” link and find the downloadable file,” explained Bob Rolley, Foundation outreach coordinator. “The guidelines should answer any questions potential applicants have. There is an online FAQ section in the guidelines that addresses the process. Of course, applicants are welcome to send an email to cccf@clintoncountyfoundation.org, or call us at 570.220.1038 with any questions.”

Before You Can Apply

“Importantly, 2024 grant recipients must submit an evaluative report on how they spent their funds and provide related information to be eligible for applying for grants in 2025. That evaluative report is due by Dec. 1, 2024, and that form can also be found online at www.clintoncountyfoundation.org by clicking on the “Grants” link and going to the bottom of that page,” Rolley emphasized.

“The Foundation invests and then leverages its funds to help organizations that help our residents,” Trout added. “We encourage eligible nonprofits and organizations to apply for grants to make a difference in our communities.”

“We also encourage residents to support the Foundation through donations and gifts,” he said. “One person can make a huge difference in the lives of others.” 

For a list of the individuals, families and organizations that have supported the Foundation and, thus, the community, visit www.clintoncountyfoundation.org.