Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible for consideration, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a registered and recognized nonprofit organization or non-governmental agency operating in Escondido, CA

• Demonstrate a clear and well-defined project or program that directly benefits the community.

• Have a track record of transparency, accountability, and responsible financial management.

• Service organizations that are not a 501(c)3 are not eligible for our grant program. However, they are encouraged to seek funding through sponsorships or the implementation of service projects by emailing project information to Pat Cypher, [email protected] or Kelly Cloud, [email protected].

Volunteer Involvement: An essential qualifying factor for receiving a grant for the fiscal year July 2025-June 2026 is the opportunity for club members to volunteer in person with the recipient organization. We believe in the value of hands-on service, fostering connections, and making a tangible impact in the community. Applicants must clearly outline how they will engage Rotary Club members in volunteer activities related to the funded project or the organization's mission.

Application Process: Interested organizations must submit a grant application using the provided form. The form will include sections for the following information:

• Organization's background and mission statement

• Description of the proposed project or the organization's ongoing work

• Project budget and the amount requested from Rotary Club of Escondido.

• Timeline for project implementation or the duration of general support

• Ways in which Rotary Club members will be involved in volunteer activities

• Tax Letter documents nonprofit status with the IRS

Application Deadline: The grant application period will be opened from June 2025 - March 31, 2026 depending on the club's funding availability. Notice of awards will be sent on a rolling basis, but no later than April 15, 2026.

Submitting Applications: Completed grant applications must be submitted via this form. Only complete applications will be considered.

Selection and Award Process: The grant selection process will involve thoroughly reviewing all submitted applications by the Rotary Club of Escondido Grant Committee. The committee will assess each proposal based on the eligibility criteria and the potential for club member volunteer involvement. Shortlisted applicants may be invited for an in-person presentation or interview to provide further details about their project.

Reporting and Accountability: After receiving the grant, the selected organization will provide an update on the progress of the funded project or general support utilization at a club meeting in Winter and Spring of 2026.

The Rotary Club of Escondido is dedicated to positively impacting our community by partnering with deserving organizations to bring about meaningful change. Through this grant program, we aim to strengthen community ties, empower local initiatives, and create opportunities for our club members to actively engage in service projects.

Rotary Club of Escondido's Hand Across Escondido Grant Contacts:

Grant Coordinator - Pat Cypher ([email protected])

Community Service Director Kelly Cloud ([email protected])