Today, the Foundation announced its plans to accept proposals from area non-profits. The organization will focus on projects and initiatives benefiting Madison County for its upcoming 2019-2020 fiscal year.

“We want to continue to partner with other organizations seeking to support the citizens of Jackson and Madison County. Therefore, we are announcing the Foundation will be accepting proposals for community impact grants for the fourth year,” said Vice President of Operations, Beth Koffman.

The Foundation awarded Community Impact Grants to ten groups for the 2018-2019 fiscal year. Among those were Jackson Chamber members: Arise2Read, The Dream Center, Jackson Arts Council, Jackson Symphony, Jonah Affordable Housing Organization, Regional Inter-Faith Association (RIFA), and West Tennessee Legal Services. “In only three years, we have doubled the number of organizations who receive funding, and we have almost tripled the amount of funds going directly back into Madison County,” said Koffman. “The Foundation’s goal continues to be putting more funds back into our community to help change lives.”

While there are no specific areas of focus requested, the Foundation has stipulated grant awards must serve the residents of Madison County. Proposals will be accepted from 501(c)(3) organizations or funds of the Foundation until Thursday, February 28, 2019 at 4:00 p.m.

“We know these organizations are serving our community, and we want to partner with them to address the specific needs they see each and every day. We want to be part of the solution,” said Foundation President, Frank McMeen.

The Foundation began in 1984 and is an independent community foundation that provides resources for more than 570 charitable interests. Funds for the staff and general operational expenses come as a gift through West Tennessee Healthcare to encourage charitable giving for good causes. The staff of five provides leadership for three community boards and numerous fundraisers for Foundation-sponsored activities.

A complete listing of the proposal guidelines can be found at www.wthfoundation.org/what-we-do/community-grant-awards.

For more information, contact the Foundation at 731-984-2140 or email Beth Koffman at Beth.Koffman@wth.org.