Community foundations have a strong presence in the state of Colorado, with around 20 of them working there to bridge gaps between donors and nonprofits. One of these community foundations is specific to Broomfield, Colorado, a city of 55,000 people that is part of the Denver metro area. For nonprofits working in the area, here are some tips to keep in mind about the Broomfield Community Foundation (BCF).
Most Grants Are for Human Services
While some community foundations take a generalist approach and fund nearly every type of local cause, BCF has five specific areas of funding. These are civic projects, human service programs, arts and humanities, senior citizen programs and educational programs. In recent grant cycles, more grants have gone to human service organizations than anything else.
For example, in the fall 2020 grant cycle, $66,500 of the total $131,000 awarded was for human services. The next most-funded category was education at $33,970. Sample human service grantees include Project Angel Heart, Rocky Mountain Legal Center and the Flatirons Habitat for Humanity.
Grant Applications Are Available in the Summer
There is typically one opportunity per year to secure support from BCF. The annual grant cycle usually opens up around the first of June, and applications are due by August 1. BCF has a committee that reviews applications in August through mid-September, and the process then continues with interviews of prospective grantees. The funder announces and distributes grants in October.
Out-of-cycle grants are rare, but they are sometimes considered on a case-by-case basis for time-sensitive programs.
There Are Several BCF Initiatives
Community foundation initiatives can offer insights into priority issues for the community, and among local nonprofits. At BCF, the Broomfield VOAD initiative addresses disaster relief and emergency needs by engaging nonprofits, volunteers, emergency responders and the faith community. There’s also the Broomfield Community Resource Guide, which provides various support services such as healthcare, child services, transportation, senior services and emergency assistance.
Another BCF Initiative backs local capacity building to promote collaborative impact. The Broomfield Housing Opportunities Coalition helps families attain local homes, while the Communities That Care Initiative helps prevent youth substance abuse.
Other Facts About BCF
Since 1993, BCF has accumulated over $2.8 million in assets and manages a $1.7 million community endowment. Since inception, it has distributed over $2.1 million in grants and scholarships to support over 100 area nonprofits and local students. There are more than 25 charitable funds held at BCF.
Read more about this community foundation and others throughout Colorado in IP’s Mountain States funding guide.