How to apply for aid or grants
So you have decided that you want to start a mentoring program and you have developed a plan to implement your program. As part of your research, you have discovered that you may need financial assistance to help you reach your goals. Where can you turn?
First, determine whether or not you want to build your mentoring program from the ground up or whether you want to join with an existing mentor program. If you choose the latter, you may find that the financial and logistical resources are already in place and thus eliminate the need for monetary backing. If you are breaking new ground, however, there are resources that you may want to investigate to assist you in providing some financial assistance.
1. Businesses and Civic Groups
Most businesses in your town or city are community oriented and welcome opportunities to help others. Companies often see sponsorship as a reasonable means to reach these goals. By providing financial assistance, companies are able to make a difference by funding those who have committed themselves to the time requirements of a mentor program. At the same time, the company enjoys the positive public relations and goodwill that go hand-in-hand with their philanthropic gesture. If you do find businesses who want to help, you may want to use this opportunity to recruit potential mentors who work for those companies. The marketing, public relations, or human resources director should have information regarding a particular company's policies.
2. Grants
There are grants available on both a State and Federal level to assist groups starting a mentor program. In January 2001, the Mississippi Mentoring Network began awarding grants to five types of mentoring programs in amounts ranging from $1,000 to $5,000. The eligible programs include the following: school-based, faith-based, community-based, arts-based, and athletic-based. Groups receiving grants are required to conform to standards set by the Network, conduct proper training and monitoring of mentors and mentees, and submit outcome reports so as to measure improvements of the children and youths. For more information, see the CFC Contact Page
In the past, the Federal Government has distributed Juvenille Mentoring Program (JUMP) Grants, designed to establish mentoring programs for high risk youth. Other Federal Grants may be available through Title IV funds from the Department of Education.
