The Community Enrichment Grant Program is administered by the Community Foundation of Mendocino County, an organization dedicated to supporting charitable efforts across the region. Established in the early 2000s and funded by the Community Endowment Fund, this program draws from permanent, undesignated endowment funds to support projects that enrich the quality of life in Mendocino County communities. The foundation's mission includes fostering regional vibrancy by proactively addressing key issues and investing in organizations that benefit the public at large.
The program aims to support initiatives with broad community impact, particularly those addressing the needs of youth, seniors, Native and Latino communities, and individuals with disabilities. Funding is available in four categories: program grants, capacity-building or administrative support, capital grants, and equipment/technology purchases. Proposals are expected to demonstrate community engagement, innovation, and alignment with the applying organization's long-term mission and strategic goals.
Strong program grant proposals will emphasize collaborative approaches and generate multiplier effects—such as educational programs that also enhance local economic conditions. Applications for these grants require letters of support from collaborating organizations, such as schools or partner agencies. Capacity-building grants must show how proposed changes will enhance organizational effectiveness, such as through improved leadership, revenue diversification, or strategic planning.
Capital grant requests are limited to initial design or final fundraising phases of construction or renovation projects. Organizations must own the land or property involved and provide detailed budgets and planning documents. Equipment and technology grants should clearly demonstrate how the new tools or systems will help advance the organization's mission. Eligible expenses may include software, websites, or technology infrastructure.
Projects that are typically not funded include those with primarily religious purposes, athletic travel, one-time events with limited impact, or basic health and human service needs, which are instead addressed through the Fund for Healthy and Inclusive Communities. Applications for the Community Enrichment Grant Program are scheduled to open in December 2025, with an exact date to be announced. Interested applicants should prepare to align their submissions with the program’s strategic focus areas and provide documentation such as partner support letters, product specs, or architectural plans as appropriate.
For more information or assistance, applicants may contact Hayley Moore, Program Officer, at hayley@communityfound.org.
Emphasize collaboration and the program’s “multiplier” effect for stronger proposals; align project goals with long-term organizational strategy.
