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PWDF Grant Program Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Last updated October 31, 2017
General
Q: Is it possible to run a couple ideas past you to see which is the strongest match or otherwise discuss our programs so we can tailor the LOI to best fit grant eligibility?
A: No; we are too short-staffed to answer individual questions about programs, therefore the LOI is the sole mechanism for us to evaluate the program or project from those details. We have intentionally kept the LOI short for that purpose.
Q: Is PWDF funding available to public institutions of higher education with programs for individuals with disabilities?
A: Per the Grant Program Information and LOI Instructions, to be eligible for a grant from PWDF, “Applicant organization must be an IRS approved § 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization or must provide a very clear statement of service, impact and need for the grant” (emphasis added). Thus, public entities, e.g., public colleges and universities, are generally not eligible for a grant; however, such entities may be eligible for a grant for a specific program that is tied to a significant component of PWDF’s mission statement
Q: Our organization does not file an IRS Form 990, it files an electronic postcard (Form 990-N). Does this disqualify us from applying? We would be able to submit a detailed operating budget to show how funds are used in each program.
A: It is unlikely that an entity that files an electronic postcard with the IRS, i.e., Form 990-N, will qualify for a grant, given the requirement of a minimum of 3 years in operation. Please be advised that the applicant bears a substantial burden of documenting a track record of having been in operations for 3 years.
Q: With regards to the service eligibility requirement, would legal advocacy work that focuses on impact litigation qualify or would only individual representation meet the requirements?
A: We believe impact litigation is very important, but these relatively small grants cannot realistically finance impact litigation.
Q: We would like to request general funds, but it mentions that the general funds have to be associated with a specific program. We have several educational courses – do all those fall under the category of “education program”? Or is one course one program?
A: In the LOI, describe or list the specific educational courses for which you will request funding. We will need to see that in order to make a determination as to whether a grant could apply to the whole group of courses or whether it would be designated to a specific course or courses.
Q: Will People With Disabilities Foundation have additional or annual grant cycles?
A: This is unknown, to be determined.
Q: Would a project that is expected to occur in a subsequent year, e.g., 2019, be considered for a grant?
A: For grants that would be used in a year subsequent to award, add an explanation in the LOI as to why you are applying early. Be aware that PWDF’s Board may or may not decide to award a grant for a future year.
Proposals
Q: Should we send CARF documentation for the quality assurance documentation?
A: We have no position on CARF.
Q: Our organization started operations last year, so we only have one year’s P&L and the 990-N, not 2 years of Form 990.
A: Organizations with less than 3 years operations are not eligible for a grant under the pilot program.
Q: What is the expected timing of the grant awards?
A: It depends on when the Board of Directors makes award decisions after reviewing the proposals submitted per the RFPs. We cannot be more specific at this time.
Q: Questions about whether specific programs, projects, and/or service populations are eligible for a grant:
A1: Service population: For the pilot grant program, eligible populations include those with psychiatric disorders, such as psychosis, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, anxiety disorders, including PTSD, and others; mental disorders, such as dementia and TBI; and certain developmental disorders. Programs or projects that serve people with autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disorders, e.g., Down Syndrome or Fragile X, and cerebral palsy are eligible. Programs and projects that serve people with muscular dystrophy, seizure disorders, or most learning disabilities are not eligible in the pilot grant program. For questions about other disorders, please submit an LOI and we will evaluate the program or project when we see the details.
A2: Program or project: It is ok to submit important questions, but we are unable to evaluate your project from an email before receiving your LOI. Please submit an LOI and we will evaluate the program or project when we see the details.
Q: Organization has been in operation longer than 3 years, but program or project is newer (less than 3 years) or planned. Is the new or planned program eligible?
A: If the program is the same as an existing program, but in a new geographical location, then it is eligible for consideration. If the program is new or different from programs that have been operating at least 3 years, then it depends on the specifics of the old and new program/project. Please submit an LOI and we will evaluate the new/different program or project when we see the details.