Applications are now available for the second year of FARO Community grants, totaling $25,000 for community engagement projects in Reading.
Barrio Alegría and the Wyomissing Foundation are partnering for a second year to provide FARO Community Grants to inspire community engagement and “shine a light” of opportunity on people and organizations working to create positive change in Reading.
These grants will be focused on those who are often excluded from institutional philanthropy and who reflect the demographic composition and lived experiences of those being served. The organization is committed to working to share and shift power to the community through these grants.
One-time grants, up to $5,000 each, will be awarded through an evaluation process, using a panel of community volunteers from Barrio Alegría, to review all applications and make recommendations to the Wyomissing Foundation Board of Directors.
Some of the projects funded in its inaugural year were “And then… Many Threads, One Fabric,” a community narrative project that illustrates Reading’s rich diversity; and The Summer Cypher Series, a series of networking and collaboration sessions at Pagoda City Record studio.
Who Can Apply?
Only nonprofit organizations with an annual budget of less than $250,000 are eligible to apply. In addition, more informal groups, associations, or individuals (without a 501(c)(3) designation) may also apply if they secure a fiscal sponsor to partner with, to manage the grant funds and reporting requirements. If you need assistance securing a fiscal sponsor, please reach out to Barrio Alegría. Applying groups or individuals must demonstrate their ability to collaborate with others in the community.
Grant Criteria:
Proposed projects should be designed to bring people together based on their shared values to create positive change in the community. Grants must benefit Reading residents and neighborhoods and preference will be given to applying groups that are also located in Reading.
Successful grantees will have a one-year period to complete planned activities and fully spend the grant. One-day only events (festivals, celebrations, etc.) are not eligible unless they are an element or concluding event of a longer-term project.
Grants also cannot be used for: individual financial assistance; fundraising or political events; or religious purposes.
Process: Applications can be completed on the Barrio Alegría website or paper applications are available from Barrio’s office at 140 N. 5th St.
The deadline for submitting applications is January 20, 2023. Grants will be awarded and funding available May 1, 2023.
Barrio Alegría is available to answer questions about the application process or provide assistance with applying, if needed.
Applicants must complete all four parts (contact information, grant questions, video, and pertinent attachments) to be considered for a grant. Once you have completed all four parts, you will receive an email from info@barrioalegria.org confirming your submission. Applications can be found in the Barrio website: barrioalegria.com/faro
