Dekalb County Community Foundation Promise Grant

The Promise Grants program, administered by the DeKalb County Community Foundation, supports charitable organizations that serve underserved and often overlooked populations in DeKalb County, Illinois. Since its inception, the Foundation has played a significant role in fostering philanthropic efforts across the county, and the Promise Grants exemplify its mission to uplift and empower vulnerable community members. The program is backed by two key funding sources: the Promise Fund – El Fondo de la Promesa, established in 2001 by Eloise and Jack Kaeck, and the Howard and Mildred Eychaner Fund, which began supporting the program in 2021. These funds reflect a shared commitment to providing opportunities, building inclusion, and addressing systemic disparities. Promise Grants are designed to inspire, educate, and empower individuals who face extraordinary challenges, including those related to ethnicity, immigration status, and physical or mental abilities. The grants target projects that increase community participation among underserved populations, foster leadership within marginalized groups, promote inclusion and cultural awareness, and enhance educational and life outcomes. Priority is also given to efforts that shift community perspectives, address healthcare access, and tackle affordable housing issues, particularly within DeKalb Township. Eligible applicants include charitable organizations working in DeKalb County. While specific entity types are not detailed, the language and examples imply a strong focus on nonprofit organizations serving targeted populations. Applications are submitted online through the Foundation’s grant portal. The submission window opens annually on August 15 and closes on October 1. Funding decisions are typically made within a month, and applicants are notified via email or phone. There is no pre-application process or mandatory letter of intent required before submitting the full application. The application evaluation process centers around alignment with the grantmaking priorities. Projects must clearly demonstrate how they empower marginalized groups, foster leadership, and create opportunities for cultural connection and educational advancement. Additionally, proposals that address systemic issues like healthcare or housing within DeKalb Township are given particular consideration. The Foundation encourages applicants to thoroughly review the grant guidelines prior to applying to ensure alignment with funding objectives. Promise Grants are not just about monetary support; they aim to create lasting change within the community by investing in the resilience and potential of individuals who face systemic barriers. The program’s history includes impactful grants such as one awarded in 2024 to the Family Service Agency, which provided educational assistance to migrants and their children. This is a prime example of the grant’s goal—to remove barriers and empower people to move closer to their dreams. For questions about the program or help with the application process, applicants are encouraged to contact the Foundation at 815-748-5383 or by email at grants@dekalbccf.org. While the Promise Grants are currently closed for applications, the next cycle is anticipated to open on August 15, 2026. The Foundation continues to encourage donor support for this initiative, reinforcing the vital impact these grants have on the fabric of DeKalb County’s diverse communities.

Family Service Agency: 2024 Promise Grant supported migrant education; DeKalb County Community Gardens: 2020 Promise Grant recipient;