In order to maximize the impact of available Foundation funds, the Trustees generally will limit their grant awards to charitable organizations operating in Madison County, Alabama. Requests from organizations operating outside Madison County, Alabama, will usually not be considered.

An applicant organization must be a public charity, exempt from federal income taxation under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code in order to be eligible.

Requests for major capital projects and endowments are eligible for consideration. However, requests for administrative, program, or operating support are also eligible for funding. Multi-year grant commitments will not be approved. The Foundation will not make grants:

  • To individuals

  • To churches and religious organizations for projects that primarily benefit their own members or adherence

  • For tickets to charitable events or dinners

  • For research

  • For conferences or seminars

  • To sponsor special events, productions, or performances

  • For legislative, lobbying, or other political purposes

  • To retire accumulated debt


The Foundation will make grants in three tiers:

  • First Tier grants will be based on the Trustees' belief that such grants will have a significant and lasting impact on the organization and the community. These grants will be approximately 35% of the funds available each year for discretionary grants. The Foundation anticipates making one or two such grants annually.

  • Second Tier grants will be based on the Trustees' belief that such grants are strategically important to the organization's growth and capability and will enable the organization to more effectively address important community needs. These grants will be approximately 35% of the funds available each year for discretionary grants. The Foundation anticipates making approximately two to six such grants annually.

  • Third Tier grants will be based on the Trustees' belief that such grants will significantly promote programs, projects, or operations of the requesting organization. These grants will be approximately 30% of the funds available each year for discretionary grants. The Foundation anticipates making approximately five to ten such grants annually.