Hello Katie,

Welcome to our Nonprofit Newsletter, where we’ll highlight the incredible work being done in our community! Each issue is designed to keep nonprofits informed and engaged with the latest Foundation and community updates. Look forward to insightful articles on Grantmaking, Attracting Donors, and a special Nonprofit Spotlight. We hope you enjoy reading and find valuable resources to support your organization!

Grantmaking

The Hamilton Community Foundation is proud to play an active role in addressing critical social, health, economic, and environmental needs of our community. With the invaluable support of our community partners, we’ve been able to award more than $162 million since our founding in 1951!

Our Foundation is dedicated to strengthening the community through a variety of grant programs, while also connecting generous donors with local nonprofits. Behind the scenes, we’re working diligently to ensure funding for your grant proposal to make a meaningful impact. Rest assured, we are here to support you and our community every step of the way.

Upcoming Grant Opportunities

The Unrestricted Community Grant: Due January 1, 2025 - As the Foundation’s cornerstone and most substantial grant pool, this fund supports community quality of life, economic vitality, and education. Award amount varies.

The Youth Philanthropy Grant: Due February 15, 2025 - With little guidance from adult advisors, the Youth Philanthropy Committee, consisting of teens from local schools, awards grants to organizations supporting youth programs. Award amounts up to $5,000.

Attracting Donors

As your nonprofit implements its 2025 fundraising plan, remember that individual donors often use the same criteria as foundations to evaluate charitable organizations. Building donor confidence is crucial, especially for large gifts or bequests.

Consider reviewing a few key items during this process. First, ensure governing documents, like articles of incorporation and bylaws, are current and aligned with your mission. Donors will look for well-maintained legal documents, especially regarding Section 501(c)(3) status. Additionally, confirm the consistency between your annual Form 990 tax return and the Form 1023 you filed to secure charitable status, as many donors scrutinize these documents before making a commitment. Lastly, consider establishing a clear gift acceptance policy to streamline your fundraising efforts.

Showcase your cause at the Hamilton Neighborhoods Summit 2025!

The 2025 Hamilton Neighborhoods Summit is seeking community partners interested in showcasing their nonprofits. The summit, which attracts ~300 local participants, is all about connection, inclusivity, and collaboration, bringing local organizations, residents and leaders together to share resources and inspire positive change. To participate, please complete the Community Partner’s Participation Form or reach out to ashley.graves@hamilton-oh.gov for more information. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this inspiring day!

Nonprofit Spotlight - Big Brothers Big Sisters

Since 1968, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Butler County has empowered local youth through professionally supported mentoring relationships. We are proud to be part of the oldest, largest, and most successful mentoring network in the nation.

Research shows that mentorship has a profound, life-changing impact for both mentors and mentees. Over the past 56 years, we’ve witnessed this transformation firsthand in Butler County, helping thousands of young people unlock their full potential.

Be part of a life-changing experience! Whether you're interested in volunteering as a mentor or enrolling a child in our programs, there are many ways you can get involved and make a positive impact.

Our Programs

We offer several flexible programs to fit your schedule and help make a difference:

• Site-Based Mentoring: Bigs and Littles meet once a week at an elementary school. It’s not about tutoring—it’s about building a friendship through conversation and fun!
• Community-Based Mentoring: Bigs and Littles meet 2–4 times a month, spending time together in the community. Whether you visit museums, go to sports events, or simply hang out, it’s all about bonding in a way that fits your lifestyle.
• Big Futures: This career-focused program helps high school students gain career readiness skills through group events and hands-on activities. It’s a great way to guide youth toward their future goals.
• Lunch Buddies: Bigs and Littles share lunch together at school once a week. It's an opportunity for conversation, connection, and fun during the school day.