1. How do we apply for a grant?
The grant application process begins with determining an organization’s general eligibility. Additionally, the organization and programming must fit with the Foundation’s program areas and funding strategies. Please review the specifications outlined under How to Apply. After determining that your organization meets all of the general and program specific eligibility criteria, please contact our Program Assistant by email at Program-Assistant@yhsodafoundation.org or by phone at (925) 631-1133 to begin a conversation with our program staff regarding a Grant Application.

2. Can I meet or talk with someone from the Foundation’s office?
Yes. We encourage you to contact our program staff if you have any questions. See our contact information under Contact Us.

3. How do I apply to be included in the Foundation’s Urban Catholic Education program area?
In response to the local crisis in Catholic education, we are developing a new strategy for the urban Catholic schools in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties. The Foundation is no longer providing tuition assistance as our primary strategy in Catholic education. We are currently collaborating with the Department of Catholic Schools of the Diocese of Oakland as they engage in strategic planning during 2010. If you would like to discuss the needs of your Catholic school with Foundation staff, please contact us. However, funding in this program area is by invitation only.

4. What is an appropriate time frame to follow up on a Grant Application?
We try to acknowledge receipt of all grant inquiries and applications as soon as we receive them. If you have not heard from us within a few days of submission, please feel free to contact our Program Assistant for an update on the status.

5. How are funding decisions made?
The Foundation’s Board makes funding decisions monthly based on staff recommendations. Please be aware that we perform rigorous due diligence on all grant applications which usually includes a site visit.

6. What is the amount of most grants funded by the Foundation?
Grants range from $2,500 to $50,000 based on the objectives and funding needs of the organization requesting support.

7. Do you fund individuals?
No, the Foundation only makes grants to organizations that are tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Service Code and not classified as a private foundation under section 509(a) of the Code. See additional eligibility requirements under Eligibility and Types of Grants.

8. Do you give multi-year grants?
Yes

9. Do you fund start-up projects?
Yes

10. How will I find out if my Grant Application was approved?
You will receive a telephone call from your Program Officer the week following the Board meeting at which your grant proposal was presented. In addition, we will follow-up with a letter indicating the Board’s decision.

11. What reporting will be required if my Grant Application is approved?
Our understanding of the specific outcomes of the grant will be reviewed with you as part of the due diligence process and included in the Grant Conditions. Generally, we require periodic written reports on outcomes and often conduct evaluative site visits, meetings and phone calls.

12. If my organization received a grant from the Foundation recently, how long must we wait before submitting another grant application?
Generally, we require that you must submit a satisfactory final report on your last grant prior to submitting another grant application. Please contact your Program Officer for more specific information as to timing of subsequent grant applications.

13. If my organization was denied funding from the Foundation recently, how long must we wait before submitting a Grant Application?
Your Program Officer can provide you with guidance on the possibility of submitting a new proposal, depending on your individual situation.

14. Can you suggest any other resources that would be helpful to nonprofit organizations?
Links to External Resources will give you the opportunity to connect with organizations that provide a variety of services, information and updates in the field.