For the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, evaluating and assessing the areas of need in the community is a constant focus. By partnering with donors and groups looking to make a major impact in Sarasota County and beyond, the Community Foundation plays a critical role in supporting causes like education and  human services, which directly build a strong future for the greater population of the region. But for critical needs in the community that demand immediate attention, the Community Foundation is proud to offer a channel of funding to meet these urgent needs for regional nonprofit organizations.  Immediate Impact Grants provide supportive funding that the Community Foundation is known for, but in an expedited fashion. Since 2012, more than $1,000,000 in Immediate Impact Grants have been awarded.. Established to serve as a lifeline for organizations that need access to funding now, rather than a standard grant application period timeframe. These emergency grants have addressed critical needs such as a new exam room and equipment for Good Samaritan Pharmacy and Services, a new medical dispensing tower for the nursing program at State College of Florida, a management information system for the Suncoast Partnership to End Homelessness and a college preparatory program for high school students at Links to Success. Local nonprofits with a profile in The Giving Partner can request up to $5,000 for an immediate need, and an advisory committee, made up of Foundation staff and members of the community, reviews monthly applications to approve either the full or partial funding. As Sarasota continues to grow and develop a portfolio of organizations that allow for positive growth in the community, the Community Foundation of Sarasota County is poised to be a leading force in paving the way for successful partnerships. 

The Community Foundation of Sarasota County is a 2016 SRQ Story Project partner. To learn more about their mission and the powerful ways they are shaping the future through giving, visit them online at CFSarasota.org. Pictured above: High school students from Links to Success’ College & Career Readiness Academy, partially funded by an Immediate Impact Grant, visit the Florida State Capitol Building.