Chaffee Community Foundation Announces Three New Grant Opportunities – by Ark Valley Voice Staff

Today, the Chaffee County Community Foundation (CCCF) announced the opening of three significant grant opportunities this summer aimed at promoting inclusivity, supporting early childhood education, and supporting the regional nonprofit community.

“We are thrilled to be able to offer these grant opportunities to our community,” said Betsy Dittenber, executive director of the CCCF. “Each of these programs addresses important needs in our region – from promoting inclusion and safety for our LGBTQ+ community, to supporting essential child care workers, to providing resources to the regional nonprofit community. We look forward to seeing the positive impact these grants have on our local communities.”

Ark River Valley LGBTQ+ Fund — is currently accepting letters of intent to apply for the available $10,000 through July. This fund is intended for investment in projects designed to improve inclusivity, increase access to services, and foster a safe, healthy, and inclusive local community.

Grants for investments in childcare staff — a new funding opportunity made possible through a partnership with Chaffee County and private donors provides up to $10,000 to licensed child care centers in Chaffee County. Beginning July 1 and continuing through June 30, 2026, CCCF is accepting applications for grants designed to increase the number of licensed child care centers in Chaffee County by creating professional development opportunities for child care center staff. This initiative aims to meet the critical need for high-quality child care in the region by supporting the professionals who make it possible.

Autumn Community Grants — In partnership with local donors and the Sangre de Cristo Electric Association, CCCF is opening the Fall Community Grants application period from July 22 to August 23, 2024. With total funding of $50,800, these grants are available to organizations serving Chaffee, Custer, Fremont and Lake Counties. The Fall Community Grants program is designed to support a wide range of community initiatives and services, further strengthening the local community.

For more information and to apply for these grants, visit chaffeecommunity.org/grants. Applicants are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria, application questions, and evaluation criteria when preparing their applications. Applicants should direct any questions to Anna Hendricks, Program Director, at [email protected] or 719-204-5071.

The Chaffee County Community Foundation was established in 2018 as a public, nonprofit organization to promote and facilitate philanthropy in Chaffee County. It was created by and for the people of this region. For more information, visit www.chaffeecommunity.org.