Guidelines
Before applying to the Dresher Foundation, make sure your organization meets our eligibility guidelines and that your project fits our funding priorities. If you meet these requirements, contact us to get the conversation started!
Eligibility
Applicants to the Dresher Foundation must:
- Be tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Service Code and not classified as a private foundation under Section 509(a) of the Code.
- Be based in or manage significant activities in Harford County, Maryland.
As a general rule, the Dresher Foundation does not provide grants to:
- Individuals or for-profit entities
- Annual fundraising campaigns, galas, or special events
- Organizations that redistribute grant funds
- National or local chapters for specific diseases
- One-time only events, seminars, or workshops
- Summer camps that are less than four weeks long
The Dresher Foundation supports programs that provide basic services that enable individuals and families to improve their quality of life, including food, housing, and employment opportunities.
The Dresher Foundation supports organizations that improve health and well-being including programs that address behavioral health, healthy lifestyles, dental care, and special needs populations.
The Dresher Foundation supports programs that provide enrichment and increased opportunity to children and youth, including summer camps and community youth programs. Funding for public and private schools is restricted to institutions that have a current relationship with the Foundation.
The Dresher Foundation supports civic and cultural organizations that contribute to a vibrant community with projects such as beautifying public spaces, cultural activities, and enjoyment of the arts.
Funding Considerations
In making funding decisions, the Board of Trustees carefully weighs a variety of factors, including:
- Does the request correspond to the Foundation’s mission, interests and resources?
- Does the request address an important, community need?
- Does the organization have the necessary leadership, management, and staff capacity?
- Are the requested funds necessary to carry out the program goals in an effective manner?
Our philosophy of funding is rooted in deep respect and admiration of our grantees who are providing vital services to our community. To help support their work, we offer:
Flexible Funding
While we also provide support for programs and capital projects, we believe that unrestricted funding is vital for an organization’s health and growth.
Streamlined Reporting
We strive to make our reporting straightforward and efficient, requiring a final report at the conclusion of each grant term.
Disclosure
Dresher Foundation Trustees are involved in many community activities as volunteers, donors, and members of boards and advisory committees. The Foundation requires disclosure by trustees of their involvement in organizations that are applicants to the Foundation, and abstention from voting on the application from any organization in which they are involved.