Applications open for Legacy Fund grants

WENATCHEE — Nonprofit organizations serving the communities of Cashmere, Chelan Valley, Upper Valley, and Wenatchee Valley can now apply for the Community Foundation of North Central Washington’s Legacy Fund Grants.

The grant program, which opened July 1 and closes August 15, offers unrestricted, community-centered funding to eligible 501(c)(3) public charities headquartered in Chelan, Douglas, or Okanogan counties.

“It’s deeply moving to witness the dedication of local nonprofits throughout our communities,” said Jennifer Short, Director of Community Grants at the Community Foundation of NCW. “The Legacy Fund program is designed to address local needs, guided by those who know their communities best.”

Each of the four Legacy Funds serves a defined geographic area:

• The Cashmere Fund supports nonprofits based in Cashmere.
  
  
• The Chelan Valley Fund serves Chelan, Chelan Falls, Entiat, and Manson.
  
  
• The Upper Valley Fund covers Leavenworth, Dryden, Peshastin, Lake Wenatchee, and Plain.
  
  
• The Wenatchee Valley Fund supports organizations in Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Rock Island, Malaga, Orondo, and Monitor.
  
  

Organizations that serve more than one community may submit a single application noting all applicable areas. Fiscal sponsorships are allowed. Public schools are not eligible, and while government agencies and faith-based organizations may apply, funding is limited to project-specific proposals that meet the Foundation's guidelines. Eligibility for government agencies may vary by region.

Established in 2023, the Legacy Fund program is the Foundation’s primary competitive grantmaking initiative. The funds reflect a place-based philanthropic approach, allowing donors to contribute to permanently restricted endowments that support specific communities. Each fund is guided by a Local Advisory Board of community members who recommend grants based on local needs. A Foundation Trustee also serves on each board to provide oversight and support.

“Last year marked an extraordinary launch for the Legacy Fund program,” said Short. “Our Local Advisory Board members really embraced their roles as community champions. In Chelan, for instance, the board has taken the initiative to table at their local farmers market—not only to spread awareness about the program, but to deepen their connection with the community. Whether someone is applying for a grant, volunteering their time, or giving as a donor, this work is made possible by the generosity, commitment, and spirit of the incredible communities we are privileged to serve.”

Legacy Fund cycles in other parts of the region continue later in the year. Applications for the Methow Valley Fund open December 1 and close January 15, and the Okanogan Valley Fund opens February 1 and closes March 15.

For more information or to begin an application, visit www.cfncw.org/legacyfundsgrant.

The Community Foundation of NCW was established in 1986 and manages more than $163 million in assets through over 690 individual funds. To date, the Foundation has awarded more than $76 million in grants and scholarships throughout Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties.