The C. E. & S Foundation is interested in supporting projects that improve people's lives. In each of the areas described below, the Foundation looks for innovative programs that address a specific need. Preference is given to those programs that have developed methods for measuring success.Please note that the Foundation can only grant to organizations with a 501(c)3 tax status.Higher Education. The Foundation currently supports programs at a number of colleges and universities with which it has long-standing partnerships. Its commitments to those institutions necessarily limit the number of grants it can award to new programs. However, the Foundation welcomes consultation with representatives of institutions seeking to explore innovation in interdisciplinary curricula, and in the teaching and learning of foreign languages. In addition, the Foundation considers proposals from non-traditional centers of learning, such as the Asia Institute, Inc., which provides educational programs on Asian culture, history, commerce, and politics to the Louisville community.International Cooperation. The Foundation supports programs that enable citizens of other countries to gain the education or specialized training needed to help their countries develop, or that meaningfully expose Americans to other societies and cultures.Urban Environmental Improvement. The Foundation supports projects that improve living conditions and/or enhance the lives of people in their communities. Urban parks, recreation facilities, and pilot projects in low-income housing are examples of the types of projects supported. The majority of grants made in this area focus on Louisville, Kentucky, the Foundation's home. Organizations serving other urban areas should seek the counsel of Foundation staff before submitting formal proposals.Emergency Disaster Relief. The Foundation supports organizations that provide emergency disaster relief both nationally and internationally.Foundation-Initiated Grants. The Foundation, from time to time, supports special projects with partner organizations that serve areas of inquiry or missions outside those listed above. Grants to such projects tend to be initiated by the Foundation, rather than granted in response to proposals.Types of Special Projects ConsideredThe Foundation will give priority to organizations and programs that:* Have demonstrated effectiveness, proven management, clear plans and a high level of competence.* Are committed to measuring outcomes and examining the lasting impact of their efforts.* Have strong levels of funding from other donors.* Offer unique, highly innovative solutions to recognized social problems.Before a grant proposal is submitted, the Foundation requests that organizations first call the Program Director to discuss the particulars of the project and the ways in which it fits the Foundation guidelines. The Foundation's staff is always willing to consult with representatives of organizations seeking possible partnership and support.Letters sent to the Foundation that propose projects outside of the guidelines are immediately declined. Projects falling within the guidelines receive additional review, and a full proposal may be subsequently requested. The Foundation will respond to all grant requests in a timely manner. However, given the large number of grant proposals that the Foundation receives, they cannot promise responses within a specific time frame.Applications are reviewed quarterly. 12/22