Grants available for community betterment

McCOOK, Neb. -- McCook Community Foundation Fund, an affiliated fund of the Nebraska Community Foundation, is seeking grant applications that align with the Fund's mission to improve the quality of life for the people of southwest Nebraska. Up to $30,000 will be available for public charities, government entities or other community groups performing charitable activities. More information can be found at www.nebraskahometown.org/fund/McCook.

McCook Community Foundation Fund works to ensure that McCook is a vibrant, inclusive community by investing in innovation, economic and educational opportunities, quality community leadership, cultural arts and healthy families and lifestyles.

Organizations that work in these areas are encouraged to apply for a Community Grant. McCook Community Foundation Fund will place priority on projects that:

* will have a broad impact on the quality of life for a significant number of people,

* propose creative ways to address community needs,

* engage young people in the community, or

* support innovative approaches to economic and community development.

Since 2003, McCook Community Foundation Fund has provided more than $200,000 to support community organizations and projects ranging from the McCook Toy Box and the Kelly Creek Walking Trail to the McCook City Library and the Keystone Business Center.

Those assisted through McCook Community Foundation Fund's 2013 grants include:

* McCook High School graduates that participated in Team Mates mentoring program will receive a $500 scholarship,

* Senior citizens throughout the region who can take advantage of the extended hours and flexible geographic range of Hillcrest Nursing Home's new bus,

* Families battling cancer who will be able to fight their battles closer to home thanks to Community Hospital's new Radiation Oncology center,

* Families in need who will be able to receive assistance with their heating bills through Share the Heat.

The Fund is holding an informational workshop for prospective Community Grant applicants to explain its grant process and to help applicants develop the most effective application possible. The workshop is Wednesday, September 10th from noon to 1:30pm on the third floor of the Keystone Business Center.

"We're here to help organizations have the greatest impact on McCook as possible," explains Advisory Committee Member Dale Dueland. "Our Community Grant application workshop is meant to grow the relationship between the Fund and community organizations where we clarify any questions prospective applicants might have and learn of the great work they are doing for McCook."

Application forms and additional information are available on the Web at www.nebraskahometown.org/fund/McCook. For additional information or to request an application form, contact Karl Shaddock at (308) 344-9363, or kshaddock@nebcommfound.org.

All applications must be received by 5:00 p.m. CDT on October 1, 2014.

As an affiliated fund of the Nebraska Community Foundation, McCook Community Foundation Fund receives financial management, strategic development and security unmatched across the country to ensure that the Fund will last for generations to come. McCook's legacy and heritage have endured for 130 years. McCook Community Foundation Fund helps McCook prepare for the next 130. A contribution to MCFF is an investment in McCook.

If you would like more information about McCook Community Foundation Fund, please visit www.nebraskahometown.org/fund/McCook email foundation@mccookne.org, "like" us at facebook.com/McCookCommunityFoundationFund or call (308) 344-9363.