project hope
This is your community.
Share your HOPE.
Project Hope is a small grants program designed to fund grassroots projects that build hope in communities and get residents involved through volunteerism and positive community engagement.
Our goal is to plant seeds of hope for the future while developing opportunities to strengthen relationships among neighbors coming together to create a better future for themselves.
The 2024 Application Period has closed. Check back early next year for information about next year’s grants cycle!
Project Hope Toolkit
Use this toolkit to brainstorm your project and prepare your application.
We’re here to help!
Eligibility Criteria
- Entities that are recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)3 charitable organization, political subdivision, or governmental organization eligible for charitable contributions under the Internal Revenue Code.
- Organizations and groups who, through volunteerism and community engagement, will undertake small, grassroots projects and programs with immediate impact in Martinsville-henry County.
- Entities that are not recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)3 charitable organization still are eligible to apply. Applicants will receive assistance and guidance in securing an appropriate fiscal sponsor.
Application Proposal
Applicants are required to first read the Project Hope Request for Proposals (RFP). (Available here on May 20, 2024.) The online application can be accessed through our website. Applicant organizations are asked to provide information explaining the idea/project with amount requested and any matching cash and/or in-kind contributions; the project description should include community benefits, anticipated results, and a timeline for implementation (within one year or less). Applicants are encouraged to upload an optional 1-3 minute video to explain your project/program to the committee.
Proposals will be reviewed by a 13-member committee of local hope builders. Applicants will be notified of awards in late September.
Grant Restrictions
The Project Hope Grant Program does not consider funding for:
- General core programs or operations because of budget shortfalls and budget cuts
- Grants to faith-based institutions for religious activities
- Grants to for-profit entities or efforts
- Grants that supplant or substitute for existing funding
- Requests that cannot be completed in one year or less or require more than $15,000 from the Harvest Foundation
