Grants

Bluestone Bank Charitable Foundation

The Foundation was established for the purpose of being a partner for local organizations by providing financial support and in turn creating a positive impact for the communities we serve. Foundation resources are allocated with priority given to requests that benefit low- and moderate-income households and neighborhoods. To achieve these goals we have established funding priorities that include:

Affordable Housing and Homelessness
Economic Development and Community Partnership Programs
Health and Human Services Programs
Education, Youth and Financial Literacy
Special Project Funding and Capacity Building

Although there are many worthy endeavors, the Foundation generally does not invest in the causes listed below:

Individuals including those seeking scholarships, fellowships, or sponsorships
Alumni organizations
Animal related causes, example: rescue societies
Beauty pageants
Major capital or endowment campaigns
Fundraising dinners or events and tickets to fundraising events
Individual sports teams including youth sports teams and leagues
Advertising and promotional items or merchandise
Governmental and political activities or candidates for political office
Churches and religious purposes
Travel, including conferences, seminars, tours and student trips

Funding and Administration

The Foundation is funded annually through direct contributions from the Bank. The Foundation’s fiscal year is the calendar year. The average grants are up to $5,000 and successful applicants are limited to one grant per year. If renewed funding is desired, the organization must submit a new request each year. Unfortunately, it is not possible for Bluestone Bank to fund every opportunity presented. Submission of an application does not guarantee that a proposal will be approved, or that it will be funded at the level requested.

How to Apply

To assess the scope of the organizations' work in the community, a complete proposal and the following financial information should be submitted to the Foundation online via Bluestone Bank’s website at www.bluestone.bank. Requested documents can be added as attachments to the online application:

A copy of the organization’s IRS 501(c)(3) tax determination letter and Tax Identification Number
A cover letter identifying the objective of the organization and proposed request
A copy of the organization’s budget and budget for the specific project, if applicable
A list of other funding sources that provide support to the organization or plan to support the specific project
A list of the organization’s Board of Directors and Board Participation for the current fiscal year as well as the percentage of Board Participation for the current project along with the total amount given by the Board collectively
Information regarding any banking relationship with Bluestone Bank
Any additional supporting documentation or collateral materials

Grant Determination

The Foundation meets quarterly (January, April, July, October). Please allow ample time for the request to be reviewed. Incomplete applications may result in a delay. Applicants will be notified of their proposal outcome by email.