Within each of its program areas, the foundation awards four types of competitive grants, which are explained in detail below. The average size and duration of a grant from the foundation is $75,000 to $100,000 over a two-year period.

An organization's proposal must fall within one of the five program areas: arts, human development, education, health care and neighborhood revitalization to apply for a grant.

CAPACITY BUILDING:

Within each of the program areas, CCF provides grants that strengthen nonprofit organizations. That support is designed to enhance an agency’s ability to meet its mission and goals or positions an organization to increase its ability to address community needs.

Activities eligible for support can include training and technical assistance in organizational assessment, strategic planning, board and staff development, fundraising, skills development and technology upgrades. Preference is given to organizations that have received prior grant support from the foundation.

CAPITAL PROJECTS:

CCF provides support for one-time capital campaigns to help an organization expand programs that are important to its long-term efficiency and effectiveness.

Funding is available for the purchase, renovation or new construction of facilities. Grant proposals must demonstrate:

• Solid programmatic and financial project planning.
• Evidence of expected funding from other sources required to complete the campaign.
• Board leadership and participation.
• Campaign feasibility and a fundraising strategy.
• Evidence of experienced and dedicated project management staff.
• Site plans of new facility (ies).

Capital grants are considered primarily for organizations that have received prior grant support from the foundation.

CORE OPERATING:

The foundation provides unrestricted funds to support the general operations of an organization whose work is consistent with the foundation’s program priorities. Core operating support strengthens the nonprofit sector in Los Angeles County because it frees up organizations to develop or implement long-term solutions to critical local issues. This type of support is not project-specific or related to capacity-building. Grant awards are contingent on an organization having:

• A strategic plan or business plan that describes organizational goals and measurable objectives.
• A logical set of programs and related activities.
• Desired outcomes and clearly defined evaluation plans.

POLICY ANALYSIS AND ADVOCACY:

The foundation seeks long-term solutions to critical issues in each of its priority funding areas. The goal is to help Los Angeles County residents better understand and participate in informed debate so they can make decisions about their government and their lives.

The foundation provides support to organizations that conduct nonpartisan studies, engage in public awareness campaigns and promote partnerships among nonprofit, public and civic groups around critical issues. Preference is given to efforts that increase new public information or enhanced government services.

PROGRAM RELATED INVESTMENTS:

The foundation is currently revising its program related investment guidelines. We apologize for the inconvenience. Check back in October 2008 for updates.