Fundraising & Grants
A major challenge to inclusion and accessibility for many outdoor recreation & camp programs is cost. These foundations & resources help make that easier.
Craig H. Neilsen Foundation
Who qualifies: Non-profit organizations in the U.S. & Canada
Types of Grantees: Past relevant funded projects have included outdoor inclusion, therapeutic recreation programs, sled hockey, adaptive sports, fitness & sports, recreation & fitness outreach programs, para-rowing, adaptive fitness program expansion, wheelchair tennis community.
Amount: Average funding amount per grant for those associated with recreation vary between $25,000-$75,000
Purpose: Supports scientific, charitable and educational organizations conducting spinal cord injury research, training in spinal cord medicine and providing services to assist individuals and families affected by spinal cord injury. One area of focus includes sports and recreation.
Application Process:
2 funding categories- Community support grants & Sustainable Impact projects (by invitation only)
Application guide is provided
Organizations can subscribe to receive info on grant opportunities and cycle openings/deadlines
Submitted online
The Christopher and Dana Reeves Foundation
Who qualifies: Non-profit organizations in the U.S.
Types of Grantees: The Reeves Foundation aids local grassroots non-profit organizations that have an immediate and practical impact on individual lives, as well as established nonprofit agencies, municipalities, schools, parks and recreation departments, tribal entities, and large national nonprofit organizations within the United States of America. Relevant past projects include adaptive sports, accessible playgrounds/playing fields/trails/beaches, camps, arts, facility accessibility modifications, fitness and wellness, accessibility modifications, therapeutic horseback riding.
Amount:
Direct Effect: up to $25,000
Expanded Impact: up to $100,000
Purpose: “Grants are awarded to organizations that address the needs of people living with paralysis caused by spinal cord and other injuries, diseases or birth conditions, including (but not limited to) stroke, spina bifida, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).”
Application Process:
Projects must be completed within 12 months of award
2 cycles per year
The cycle opens (Early February 2020), attend Foundation webinar, deadline for emailed questions, proposals due (Mid March), external review, internal review, grants awarded and funded (End of May), grant period (June 2020-May 2021)
The Tommy Wilson Memorial Grant
Who qualifies: Non-profit organizations in the U.S.
Types of Grantees:
Programs must provide a specific direct service to individuals with disabilities.
Programs must focus on recreational pursuits for individuals with disabilities.
Applicants must have a successful record of programming for individuals with disabilities.
Applicants must be a nonprofit organization.
Funds must go directly to supporting individuals with disabilities in recreational activities (e.g., equipment, housing, registration fees, facilities).
Grants may not be used to cover administrative costs.
Amount: Grants are awarded for up to $1,500 total per year. Applicants may apply for $500 to $1,500.
Purpose: Supports recreational programs for individuals with disabilities
Application Process:
Deadline is June 1st each year
Application packet provided for download.
Move United & more
Who qualifies: Depending on grant-individuals with disabilities, adaptive athletes, organizations
Types of Grantees: Varies depending on specific grant
Amount: Ranges depending on need, millions of dollars each year
Purpose: To help youth with disabilities get adaptive sports equipment, to reduce barriers to participation, and support recreational programs
Application Process: Varies depending on the organization
GoHawkeye
Who qualifies: Open to adaptive individuals and organizations in the U.S.
Types of Grantees: Outdoor sports equipment & sports experience
Amount: Ranges depending on need
Purpose:
Sports equipment grant to help applicants acquire outdoor sports equipment.
Sports experience grant to help applicants attend outdoor sports events and participate in outdoor experiences
Application Process:
Biannual cycles ending June 30 and Dec 31.
Download & complete appropriate application
Submit form online or mail-in