Katherine R. Smith Funds for Youth

The Katherine R. Smith Funds for Youth is a philanthropic initiative of the Waterville Community Foundation, administered in partnership with the Greater Toledo Community Foundation. These foundations aim to foster sustainable, inclusive community development throughout northwest Ohio by leveraging collective expertise and strategic grantmaking. Their mission is grounded in bold, forward-thinking leadership designed to create lasting social impact. Specifically, the Katherine R. Smith Funds for Youth support nonprofit organizations serving children and youth under 18, with a geographic focus on Lucas and Wood Counties in Ohio, and special preference for programs benefiting residents of Waterville and the Anthony Wayne Local School District. The purpose of the Katherine R. Smith Funds is to enhance the well-being and development of young people by supporting projects that provide meaningful, demonstrable impact over a set period. The program is designed to fund both operating costs for ongoing youth programs and expenditures for the establishment of new initiatives. Funding priority is given to projects that serve children with developmental disabilities and those who have experienced abuse. The Foundation values projects that are responsive to the specific needs of youth in the designated geographic areas and that can demonstrate clear objectives, implementation strategies, and outcome measurement protocols. Grants must exceed $3,000, and the total annual distribution available is approximately $50,000. Although funds may support existing and new programming, applicants are cautioned not to rely on this funding as a recurring source of support. In addition, proposals involving the production of films, videos, or television programs will be considered lower priority. Applications must come from organizations located in or providing services to residents of Lucas or Wood Counties, ensuring the grant resources directly benefit the local population. The grant application process requires submission through the Foundation’s online portal. Applications are due annually by January 31 at 11:59 PM. After submission, proposals undergo a review by professional staff and Boards of Trustees from both the Waterville and Greater Toledo Community Foundations. Applicants will be notified of the grant decision by March or April. Importantly, expenses incurred before the award notification date are not eligible for reimbursement. Applicants must submit a narrative proposal that addresses five key areas: (1) goals and target population, (2) implementation plans and responsible personnel, (3) evaluation methods, (4) plans for sustainability post-grant, and (5) detailed budget including all income sources and expense lines. Additionally, required attachments include the organization's Board of Trustees list, IRS tax exemption letter, organizational background and mission, financial statements (either full audit or unaudited statements no older than 18 months), and the current board-approved operating budget. For further information or assistance, applicants may contact Renee Daley, the program officer, by phone at 419.241.5049 or via email at renee.daley@toledocf.org. Complete application materials must be submitted online at https://www.grantinterface.com/sl/JK19EY by the posted deadline. The program operates on an annual cycle, with consistent deadlines and notification timelines each year, making it a stable opportunity for nonprofits focused on youth development in northwest Ohio.

Funding is not to be depended upon as an annual source of support; align evaluation criteria with project goals and population needs.