|
• How do we apply for a grant?
Download and follow the instructions on the "Grant Check List" and submit a GRANT APPLICATION PACKAGE to the foundation. If it is determined from the submission that the request meets the Foundation’s priorities and interest, the applicant will be notified by the Foundation.
BACK TO TOP
• What should be included in the Letter of Inquiry?
a) a brief description of the organization
b) a brief history of the organization
c) the population it serves
d) the programs it provides
e) a brief description of the project for which funding is requested
f) the total cost of the project for which funding is sought
g) the amount raised to date
h) the amount requested from The Ray Charles Foundation
BACK TO TOP
• What are The Ray Charles Foundation’s funding priorities?
a) Education
b) Hearing Disorder Health Care
c) Culture and the Arts
BACK TO TOP
• What may Ray Charles Foundation grant funds be used for?
a) Capital — such as buildings and improvements; furniture and equipment; and specialized inventory to advance the mission.
b) Program — any expenses allocated specifically to delivery of an organization’s programs.
c) Organizational infrastructure and strength — may include one-time Grants for the hiring of professionals such as an executive director or development officer, or the purchase of needed software to advance the mission or for fundraising purposes. The Foundation will not make grants for ongoing operating expenses.
BACK TO TOP
• We have several needs. Would you help us choose one or may we include all of them in our request?
We ask that you apply for funding for one project at a time. We suggest that you apply for the need that is of the highest priority for your agency and fits our guidelines. This will assist you in making a case for funding.
BACK TO TOP
• We have a grant request that appears to fit within The Ray Charles Foundation guidelines. Should we set up a meeting to present our ideas?
The first step is to submit a completed GRANT APPLICATION PACKAGE (see Check List) describing the project for which you are requesting funding. Foundation staff may contact a prospective applicant to obtain additional information about the request.
BACK TO TOP
• May we apply for a grant or send a GRANT APPLICATION PACKAGE via email or fax?
No. Completed GRANT APPLICATION PACKAGES are only accepted via U.S. mail.
BACK TO TOP
• Does The Ray Charles Foundation have deadlines for submitting GRANT APPLICATION PACKAGES?
The Ray Charles Foundation accepts and reviews GRANT APPLICATION PACKAGES throughout the year. It generally takes several months to review an application from the day it is received to notification of the Board’s decision. Each applicant is notified when a decision has been made. We do not accept request for emergency funding.
BACK TO TOP
• May we substitute a full narrative proposal for The Ray Charles Foundation’s application form?
The Ray Charles Foundation requires that all applicants use the Foundation’s Online Grant Application form to ensure that organizations provide all of the information needed for a full review.
BACK TO TOP
• Do you conduct site visits to all organizations that have submitted a formal application?
We visit most of our applicants in person. The Director of Grants determines the most effective methods by which to gather additional information needed.
BACK TO TOP
• May we contact Foundation Board members about our proposed project?
Communication with members of our Board of Directors is discouraged.
BACK TO TOP
• I sent a GRANT APPLICATION PACKAGE to the Foundation and have not heard back. How can I check the status of my request?
Keep in mind that due to the high volume of GRANT APPLICATION PACKAGES that the Foundation receives, it may take several weeks to respond to each applicant.
BACK TO TOP
• Does The Ray Charles Foundation accept grant proposals for projects outside the United States?
No. The Ray Charles Foundation will only consider grants to public organizations incorporated and delivering service in the United States that are organized under Internal Revenue Section 501 (c) (3) tax exempt organizations.
BACK TO TOP
• My funding request does not fall under any of your Foundation’s areas of funding. How do I submit a grant request?
The Ray Charles Foundation does not make grants outside of our funding priorities.
BACK TO TOP
• I am an individual seeking financial assistance. Am I eligible for a grant?
In keeping with our charter, we do not provide funding to individuals. We only accept GRANT APPLICATIONS from 501 (c) (3) and other tax exempt organizations.
BACK TO TOP
• I am raising money for a cause. Am I eligible for a grant?
The Ray Charles Foundation makes grants to organizations directly rather than individual fundraising activities; therefore we are unable to fund your effort.
BACK TO TOP
• My GRANT APPLICATION was declined. Can I apply again for funding?
Yes, you may apply again for funding but you must wait one full year before reapplying.
BACK TO TOP
• My organization does not have tax-exempt status. May I still apply for a grant?
The Ray Charles Foundation only considers GRANT APPLICATIONS from tax-exempt organizations.
BACK TO TOP
• What is the Ray Charles Foundation’s application process?
The Ray Charles Foundation requests that the applicant print and follow the Grant Check List.
Upon completing the instructions, mail the GRANT APPLICATION PACKAGE (Cover Letter, completed and signed Online Grant Application, Letter of Inquiry, Proof of IRS federal tax-exempt status, Annual Report [if available], and signed Grant Check List, to the following address:
Director of Grants
The Ray Charles Foundation
2107 West Washington Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90018
BACK TO TOP
• How long do I have to wait before reapplying?
My organization’s completed application was declined. A declined completed application is eligible to begin the process after one year.
BACK TO TOP
• What are the obligations and responsibilities of a Grant recipient?
For a detailed overview, see Obligations and Responsibilities of Grant Recipient in the Grant Qualifications section.
BACK TO TOP
|
