(CHAFFEE COUNTY, CO) Oct. 28, 2024 – The Chaffee County Community Foundation (CCCF) has awarded $50,866 in funding to 31 local nonprofit organizations as part of its Fall grant cycle, which ran from July 22 through August 23, 2024. This critical funding was made possible through a partnership with the Sangre de Cristo Electric Association (SDCEA) and generous contributions from local donors.

The grants are divided into two categories:

1. SDCEA Grant Fund: The SDCEA Fund awarded $35,000 to nonprofit organizations serving Chaffee, Custer, Fremont, and Lake Counties. These grants target organizations focused on:

● Community-based health programs

● Food, shelter, and human services

● Disaster preparedness and relief services

● Animal protection and welfare

“Our partnership with SDCEA enables us to amplify local nonprofits’ efforts in addressing the most pressing needs in our communities,” said Betsy Dittenber, Executive Director of CCCF. “These organizations are doing impactful work, and we are grateful to SDCEA for trusting us to manage this grantmaking process.”

2. CCCF Community Grants Fund: A total of $15,866 was awarded through CCCF’s Community Grants Fund, supporting nonprofits focused on community health, vitality, and capacity building in Chaffee County. This funding was made possible through the generosity of local donors, reflecting a shared commitment to building a resilient and thriving community.

The average grant award for the Fall cycle was $1,640, and funds are expected to be distributed by November 1, 2024. To qualify, applicants had to be registered as 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), or 501(c)(6) organizations—or under fiscal sponsorship of a qualifying entity—and in good standing with the IRS and the State of Colorado.

Out of 38 applications received, 82% of applicants were awarded grants. The selection process combined quantitative scoring with qualitative insights, including follow-up questions to ensure a well-rounded evaluation of each project.

CCCF’s comprehensive grant management process includes:

● Managing the online grant portal and reviewing applicant eligibility

● Providing technical support to applicants

● Convening a volunteer review committee that reflects the communities served

● Facilitating independent scoring, follow-up, and final recommendations

“We prioritize a fair and transparent grant process focused on increasing nonprofit capacity and supporting meaningful community work,” Dittenber added. “Our approach ensures that good projects—not just good grant writers—receive funding.” A conflict-of-interest policy, including volunteer recusal, ensures unbiased grant reviews.

The Fall 2024 Grant Review Committee, composed of 10 community volunteers, collectively contributed over 250 hours to evaluating applications and recommending funding allocations.

Dittenber praised the committee’s work: “I am consistently inspired by the dedication and care shown by our volunteers in each grant cycle. Their efforts are essential to ensuring that funding is allocated to organizations making a real difference in our community.”