Nonprofit organizations that impact our community may be eligible to apply for funds through one of our grant-making programs. Applications may be submitted during our main, annual grant cycle, or to our Young Philanthropists Fund program which focuses on a different funding priority annually. Organizations may also request emergency financial assistance for their clients who are New Canaan residents through our Touch A Life Fund. Students can learn about our scholarship and award opportunities.
Our grant-making decisions are based on the needs and interests of New Canaan residents. Applications are reviewed carefully to ensure that grants are targeted to high-quality, high-impact programs and initiatives. Through grants, the Foundation invests our donors’ contributions in the best organizations in our region that are providing a broad range of services.
Grant-making by the Foundation is directed by the volunteer Board of Directors with participation by local volunteers and guidance from the professional staff. Teams of Board members and residents make site visits to organizations to evaluate every application. Donors who have supported the Foundation and are interested in getting more involved with our work may want to become a grant-making volunteer and join in this unique effort.