How do you get funding to start your Upward sports program?
Sometimes the desire is there but the budget is weak. This is particularly true in these more difficult economic times. But there are solutions. Certainly, Upward as a program will provide suggestions. Just call -800-585-4721 (press 2) .
But there are many other ways to start an Upward Sports program. Here are a few suggestions:
1. Look at applying for a grant from a private foundation. There are private foundations that provide funding for faith based activities that help support the community. Look at www.christianfoundationgrants.com for a subscription database listing private foundations in your area.
2. Local banks with trust departments will sometimes have trusts or foundations that they administer which provide funding for community based activities. It's always a great idea to call and set an appointment.
3. If you have a local community foundation, consider meeting with their leadership and determine their willingness to support such a program. If you need help writing a grant, the www.christianfoundationgrants.com website is a good source.
4. Launch a non cash fund drive. One of the new opportunities is to launch a cash for gold drive, or look at a car donation program. Offer to congregation members the opportunity to donate a car instead of trading it in. The car can be sold and the proceeds used to support the program. Need help administering the non cash program. Look at www.idonate.com for a resource.
5. Make sure that you have your Upward program online, including player registration. By having your program online, more people will be able to find it, and by having online registration you make the process easy for sign up. Just choose your online registration provider wisely. See my previous blogs on this subject.
There are lots more ideas like these, but these should get you started. There are plenty of out of the box ideas that can get you launched and making a difference in your community.
--William High is a freelance writer.