Black Oak Getty Community Foundation Grant

The Black Oak Getty Community Foundation is a Partner Fund of the Initiative Foundation, designed to enhance the quality of life for citizens within the Black Oak Getty Wind Farm Area communities. Its mission is centered around community development, environmental stewardship, and educational advancement. By funding charitable projects that serve these priorities, the foundation aims to foster sustainable growth and resilience in local populations. All contributions to the fund are professionally managed through the Initiative Foundation, ensuring long-term community benefits and financial oversight. This foundation specifically encourages grant applications from tax-exempt nonprofit organizations whose programs align with its goals in four primary focus areas: education support and youth development, housing, food, and other basic needs, civic engagement and community development, and conservation and the environment. Preference is given to innovative initiatives that promote volunteerism, community development, and environmental awareness or improvements. All awarded programs are expected to deliver measurable and substantial positive community impacts. Applicants must submit their grant proposals by November 30. The review process takes place throughout December, with grant awards distributed in January. The foundation does not offer a rolling application process, and there are no pre-application deadlines or question periods specified. The grant program is structured annually, and recurring application opportunities are expected each year. Past grantees from 2023 include a diverse array of community-serving entities such as the Sauk Centre Area Combined Fund, Sauk Centre Sno-Cleats Inc., Crow River Trail Guards, Terebinth Refuge, Holy Family School, and the Sauk Centre School District, receiving grants ranging from $700 to $2,700. These awards supported youth education programs, basic needs, and school facility improvements, demonstrating the foundation’s broad yet community-rooted funding priorities. To apply or inquire about the program, interested parties may reach out to Community Philanthropy Manager Amy Gray or Vice President of Philanthropy Carl Newbanks at the Initiative Foundation. Both contacts are based at the foundation's Central Minnesota office in Little Falls, although checks and formal correspondence are directed through a secure St. Paul P.O. Box. Additionally, the advisory team, composed of local volunteers, plays a vital role in assessing community needs and providing guidance in the funding process. The Initiative Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, ensures all donations are tax-deductible as permitted by law. Contributions to the fund may also be made through planned gifts or charitable bequests. Interested donors can work with the foundation to explore legacy giving options that ensure sustained benefits to the Black Oak Getty communities.