How to Write a Grant for Disabled Children in Oregon
- 1). Go to a foundation website such as the Foundation Center, and conduct a search in the state of Oregon for foundation grant opportunities from private organizations for children with disabilities. Use the pull-down menu and click on "Oregon." Bookmark or note those grants that look like possibilities; keep a running list.
- 2). Go to the state of Oregon Grants website to conduct a search for state or federal grant opportunities. Often government grants require schools or state organizations to be applicants.
- 3). Once you have a list together of possibilities, prepare to fill out each application by gathering information needed regarding the need for the grant. All applications are different, however specific to Oregon, gather up statistical data that shows a regional need for funding, number of disabled citizens, and other facilities available to meet their needs. Most critical will be your ability to demonstrate that the need exists for what you are funding. For example, if you're funding an outreach center to serve as a resource for disabled citizens, provide a listing of similar outreach centers if any. If there are none, make a case for your organization that you will meet that need. Data from 2008 State of Oregon on Oregon.gov shows that there are 60 employment programs available to serve over 3,000 disabled individuals in the state, which represents 82 percent of individuals receiving employment services. Seek out similar data to represent or support what you are attempting to get funded.
- 4). Read the application carefully to be sure you meet all of the eligibility criteria for the disability the grant supports. For example, if you're seeking funds for housing assistance, be clear as to what type of state documentation will be required for applicants, the types of disabilities that qualify for procurement of grant funds, and verification of any income qualifications of applicants.
- 5). Keep a running list of each application sent, with the amount applied for, type of grant, date it was sent and anticipated decision date as stated in the application. Archive all of the data pulled on regional disabled citizens and their need for what it is you're seeking to fund in the grant. Sometimes grants are provided with opportunities for revision if information is missing and the granting organization is interested in funding. This information will also be useful moving forward on other opportunities as they arise.
- 6). Sign and submit the application electronically or through regular mail. Be sure to send the proper number of copies required by the grant, sign it, date it, and send it by certified mail return receipt to have verification that you sent it by the stated deadline.