Critical Response Initiative Policy

Purpose:

The Greater Douglas United Way (GDUW) Board of Directors voted unanimously to address community identified issues through a Request for Proposal (RFP) process. This Critical Response Initiative will allow the organization to respond to human issues, as identified by our community and approved by the GDUW Board of Directors, which are above and beyond annual member agency allocations.

Process:

1. Grant proposals will be taken at least annually. A committee will be formed to review applications and make recommendations. The full Board will have final approval.


2. GDUW reserves the option to initiate additional rounds of RFP’s.


3. The GDUW Board of Directors maintains the flexibility to do single or multi-year funding.


4. Applications will be completed as per proposal elements outlining the project or program, community need, the targeted audience and program outcomes. The proposal will include the project, program, or agency budget and other community collaboration confirmed for the program or project. At the discretion of the GDUW the agency may be asked to make a formal presentation. All applicants will be notified in writing of the status of their application.


5. Incomplete proposals will not be considered.


6. Staff will initiate and coordinate the RFP process up to 90 days prior to the application deadline.

Criteria:

1. Grants will be open to both public and private non-profit agencies.


2. Grant requests will address the concern as identified through a community input process and selected for funding by the GDUW Board of Directors.


3. The project fiscal agent must have been in operation for at least one year and submit its current operational budget, most recent annual audit or financial review and a list of their Board of Directors.


4. A higher priority will be given to applications that:


1. Delineate measurable outcomes that show potential for high impact
2. Leverage additional funds
3. Are data driven
4. Address issues in a comprehensive manner