Wharf to Wharf Grant

The Wharf to Wharf Grant is administered by the Wharf to Wharf Race, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting youth running opportunities throughout Santa Cruz County. The organization’s mission centers on improving youth health and fitness by increasing access to running programs, particularly for underserved and at-risk populations. Through its annual grantmaking program, Wharf to Wharf distributes funding to support a wide range of community-based initiatives that align with this mission. The grant is structured to provide flexible support across schools, community organizations, and local programs that engage youth in running-related activities. The primary purpose of the grant is to expand access to youth running opportunities and remove barriers to participation. Funding is intended to support initiatives that increase participation in track and field and cross country programs, promote long-term health and wellness behaviors, and provide equitable access regardless of financial circumstances. Priority is given to programs that demonstrate measurable outcomes, such as improved physical fitness, increased knowledge of healthy living, and enhanced mental well-being among youth participants. The program explicitly emphasizes inclusion of underserved youth populations and encourages projects that reach communities not previously funded. Funding is available across several project categories, including team equipment and supplies, youth running programs and events, high school track and cross country support, and capital projects or large equipment purchases. Allowable expenses include equipment such as track and field gear, uniforms, and supplies; program costs such as after-school running programs, summer camps, and events; and infrastructure improvements such as track upgrades and large equipment like hurdle sets or pole vault pits. While most categories have a maximum request of 3000 dollars per school or program, larger capital projects may be funded on a case-by-case basis depending on demonstrated impact, need, and access. Eligible applicants include schools, youth-serving nonprofit organizations, community groups, and local government entities with a proven track record of working with youth or the capacity to implement youth-focused programming. Programs must serve individuals under 18 years old within Santa Cruz County. Applicants must also demonstrate the ability to manage funds responsibly, including providing invoicing and reporting on expenditures. The application requires submission of a detailed program description, goals and objectives, target population, budget, implementation timeline, evaluation plan, and organizational capacity statement. The application process is conducted twice annually through Calls for Applications, with submission via an online form. For the 2026 cycle, the first application deadline is May 25, 2026, with review occurring at the June board meeting and award notifications issued by mid-June. A second cycle follows with a deadline of December 31, 2026, reviewed in January with notifications by mid-January. There are no pre-application requirements such as letters of intent. Applicants are notified directly if selected, and all proposals are evaluated by the Wharf to Wharf board based on alignment with mission, demonstrated need, expected impact, and feasibility of implementation. Awardees are required to comply with reporting and acknowledgment requirements. This includes submitting a final project memo detailing program outcomes, number of youth served, and supporting documentation such as photos. Additionally, Wharf to Wharf requires recognition in funded projects through branding on printed materials, equipment, and event marketing. The grant operates on a recurring semi-annual cycle, providing consistent opportunities for organizations to apply and secure funding to expand youth running initiatives within the county.

Align proposal with youth running mission; demonstrate measurable outcomes; emphasize access for underserved youth; provide clear implementation plan