Stanislaus County nonprofits looking for additional funds to continue their good work can now apply for a grant through the Women’s Leadership Council, an affinity group through the United Way of Stanislaus County.

“It’s brand new this year,” said Sarah Jamieson, community and donor relations specialist for the council.

With the mission of mobilizing “the power of women to strengthen the lives of women and children in our community,” the Women’s Leadership Council conceived of the Capacity Building Grant after recognizing local nonprofits’ need for often basic items to further their mission. With many grants often limited to program-related spending, the Women’s Leadership Council hopes to “fill the gap” by allowing nonprofits to receive money for tangible needs such as beds, curriculum, school supplies or refrigerators, depending upon the organization. 

“It’s also a great way to gage the needs of the community and how we can help,” said Jamieson.

Precipitated by a surplus of funds the Council raised in the past year, a total of $2,000 is available for which local nonprofits can apply. With a limit of a $1,000 funding request, a minimum of two nonprofits will be selected for the funds after grant applications are reviewed by the council. According to Jamieson, the Capacity Building Grant not only allows the Council to fulfill its mission of helping women and children in the community, it is also in line with the United Way’s spirit of collaboration as a network of nonprofits.

For a full list of eligibility requirements and to access the Capacity Building Grant application form go to http://www.uwaystan.org/.  Award announcements will be made by Feb. 9, 2015.