What Does the Jelley Family Foundation Endowment for Children's Education Fund?

Applications for the Jelley Family Foundation Endowment for Children's Education must focus on educational initiatives for children, ranging from early childhood through traditional post-secondary education. Proposals that take an innovative approach to education, focus on at-risk youth, and are collaborative with other organizations are encouraged. With proposals due in March, it is recommended that your project has a start date of November/December of that year OR begin in January of the following year.

Is My Organization Eligible To Apply?

Organizations that are 501(c)(3) nonprofits, units of local government, or public education institutions located in or serving individuals or communities in Eastern Jackson County (East of I-435), Missouri, suburban Jackson County (outside KC), and Cass County are eligible to apply for Jelley Family Foundation funds.

New for 2024

Beginning in 2024, a new 3-year rule will be implemented. Programs, projects, and general operating grant awards are eligible for funding for up to three consecutive years. All previous grantees and their programs/services will have a "re-set." The 2024 grant awards will be considered YEAR 1 of funding. Grantees will be eligible for two additional years of funding (a new application is needed each year). Once an agency has received grant monies three years in a row, the agency MUST take one year off before reapplying for a grant.

Eligible organizations may apply for ONLY ONE grant, either through Community Grants OR the Jelley Family Foundation Grants. This is also a change that begins 2024.

What Is A Typical Jelley Grant Award Amount?

The average Jelley Grant award is $5,000-$10,000. More than $140,000 is available annually through the Jelley Family Foundation for Children's Education.

Important Dates for Jelley Grants

Jelley Family Foundation Grant

• Applications are due the second Monday of March
• Applicants will be notified of funding decisions by early July
• Grant checks will be issued in November at our annual Grants Luncheon.
• All recipient organizations must submit a written final report to THCF at the conclusion of the program funded or twelve months from the date of the award.

The THCF grants process is very competitive, and we want to ensure that each proposal receives fair consideration. We ask that organizations double-check all attachments and ensure that the proposal is completed accurately and submitted before the deadline. In the event that an error is identified and if time allows, Foundation staff will reach out promptly to update any requirements.

What Does the Application Include?

• Click HERE to download a Grants Budget Sheet that must be included in your application. This form is not needed if you are requesting general operating funds.
• Click HERE to download a Grants Report Form. All organizations that have previously received grant funding must submit a final report regarding their most recent completed grant award. This would be any grant awarded prior to the most recent November check distribution.
• Here is a SAMPLE of information requested on the Jelley Family Foundation grant application.
• Make sure you have your organization's tax-exemption letter. Follow THIS LINK to request a copy of your organization's tax-exempt letter from the IRS. Here is a SAMPLE of a correct 501(c)(3) letter.

Enter the Grants Portal