Straits Area Community Foundation (YAC Grants)

Organizational Type: Non-profit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS code, schools and government agencies, religious organizations (if they serve the general public without sectarian overtones)

Location: Cheboygan County and Mackinaw City

Project Scope: Grants are for future projects only (no funding for completed projects), focus on projects benefiting youth under 18, proposals for new, dynamic projects are prioritized, no grants for routine operating needs or budget deficits

Grants are not provided for projects completed before final board approval. No funding for routine operating needs or budget deficits. Repeated applications for sustained funding of programs are discouraged.

Applicants may request up to a maximum of $1,000 per application cycle, unless otherwise indicated.

The application for the YAC Grant includes the following components:

1. Organization Information:

   • Details about your organization, including its status as a 501(c)(3) non-profit, school, or government agency.

2. Project Description:

   • A description of the project, including its goals and how it benefits youth under 18 in Cheboygan County and Mackinaw City.

3. Budget:

   • A detailed budget for the project, with a sample budget provided to assist in completing this section.

4. Presentation:

   • A representative from your organization must present the project to the YAC members at a scheduled meeting (usually on a Sunday at 1 p.m.).

5. Grant Agreement:

   • If awarded, your organization’s executive director must sign and submit the grant agreement after receiving approval.

6. Deadline:

   • Applications must be submitted by March 15 or December 15.

The deadlines for the YAC Grant application are March 15 and December 15 each year.

The reporting requirements for the YAC Grant include:

1. Final Grant Report:

   • A final report is required after the completion of the funded project.

2. Grant Agreement:

   • The organization’s executive director must sign and submit the grant agreement after receiving notification of the grant award.

3. Extension Request:

   • If necessary, a written request for a six-month extension may be submitted for additional time to complete the project.

The evaluation criteria for the YAC Grant are as follows:

1. Youth Impact:

   • Priority is given to projects addressing youth needs identified in the tri-annual needs assessment survey, including mental health, bullying, low self-esteem, stress, and substance use (e.g., smoking, vaping, tobacco).

2. Project Innovation:

   • Proposals for new, dynamic projects that show potential for community impact and have additional funding support from other organizations are given stronger consideration.

3. Community Benefit:

   • The project must benefit youth under 18 in Cheboygan County and Mackinaw City.

4. Presentation:

   • A representative from the organization must present the project to the YAC members, demonstrating the project’s potential and alignment with community needs.

5. Funding Need:

   • Priority is given to projects that require seed money and are not for routine operating expenses or budget deficits.