Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Am I required to be designated as a 501C3 non-profit organization as defined by the IRS?
A: Yes, documentation is required. All applicants must provide a copy of the 501C3 determination letter from the IRS. Please note that your 501C3 status must be current. Therefore, your status will be verified via the IRS website.
Q: Am I required to have a Business License?
A: No, the applicant does not have to have Business License.
Q: Can I apply for the grant if my organization is not based in Clarkston?
A: Yes, as long as your services are held in Clarkston and directly assist Clarkston residents, your organization is eligible to apply.
Q: Are all clients served by the C.A.R.E.S. Grant required to live in the City limits of Clarkston?
A: No, not all clients must live in the City of Clarkston. At least 51% of total clients served must live in the City of Clarkston’s city limits.
Q: Do I have to submit a list of all clients served with my application?
A: No, the applicant does not have to submit their client served list with the application.
Q: The application states that I need three professional references and two letters of support. What is the difference?
A: The key difference is that professional references are a list of individuals who can vouch for the nonprofit’s qualifications and experience, while letters of support are formal endorsements from stakeholders or partners that highlight the organization’s impact and align with the proposed project.
For a detailed overview and examples, please view this document: Understanding Letters of Support and Professional References for Grant Applications.
Q: What if I miss the pre-application meeting?
A: Attendance at the pre-application meeting on January 16, 2025 was mandatory. All applicants must have signed in. Failure to attend will disqualify your application.
Q: Can one person represent more than one entity at the Pre-Application Grant Meeting on January 16, 2025?
A: Yes, as long as the individual signed in for all entities that he/she represented.
Q: Can I reapply if I don’t receive the grant?
A: Yes, organizations that do not receive a grant award in one cycle are encouraged to reapply in future cycles.
Q: How will I know if my application has been accepted?
A: Yes, all applicants will be notified of their status by February 21, 2025.
Q: Am I required to have sign-in sheets at funded events, if awarded the grant?
A: Yes, the awardee should have sign-in sheets. It should have fields for clients’ names, addresses, and phone numbers.