Rancho Bernardo grant applicants sought

Groups that strive to improve Rancho Bernardo’s quality of life can apply for up to $10,000 in grants that will be awarded later this year.

Rancho Bernardo Community Foundation will hold a grant seekers forum at 4 p.m. Wednesday, May 4 in the Bernardo Heights Community Center, 16150 Bernardo Heights Parkway in Rancho Bernardo.

Grant proposals are due by noon Monday, May 23. For the application and guidelines, go to sdfoundation.org/Grants.

The foundation will also accept Community Partner grant applications from groups that received that funding in the past. Proposals are for up to $1,500. For a Community Partner grant application, send an email to Trudy@sdfoundation.org.

According to foundation officials, “the goal of the grant cycle is to support programs that make Rancho Bernardo a great place in which to live, work and play. Desirable projects will increase dialogue and participation, inspire community pride and revitalization, and increase the quality of life of the broader community.”

Grant proposals of $1,500 to $10,000 will be considered. Per the application, “preference will be given to projects that clearly address Rancho Bernardo-specific issues and needs, including activities that promote creativity and enhance civic engagement.”

The projects must be achievable within 12 months — from Dec. 1, 2016 through Dec. 31, 2017 — and have long-term sustainability prospects. Funding may be used to expand existing programs, replicate programs in other communities or launch new efforts. It must also be managed by a non-profit organization, school or government agency. If the applicant does not have non-profit status, it can have a non-profit organization serve as its fiscal sponsor.

Proposals not eligible include annual campaigns and fundraising events, capital campaigns for buildings of facilities, stipends to attend conferences, endowments, projects that promote religious or political doctrine, research, scholarships or be used to pay for existing obligations or debt.

The foundation will present its 28th annual grants during the Rancho Bernardo Community Thanksgiving Luncheon in November.