Commissioners and Chester County Community Foundation in front of historic Lincoln Building, West Chester, PA. Left to right: Karen Simmons, President & CEO, CCCF; Beth Harper Briglia, CAP, CPA, Exec V. P. of Philanthropy Services; Commissioner Josh Maxwell; Michael DeHaven, CPA, Chair of the Board; Commissioner Marian Moskowitz; Commissioner Michelle Kichline.
WEST CHESTER — Recognizing the importance of the nonprofit sector to the high quality of life throughout the region, the Chester County Commissioners approved the allocation of $3.5 million to help Chester County nonprofits recover from the impact of COVID-19. The Restore Chester County: Nonprofit Innovation & Resiliency Fund will be administered by the Chester County Community Foundation, with input from regional funders, United Ways, and Chester County government departments.
This funding is made possible by the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. “Our Commissioners understand the role of nonprofits in a vital community, and they have the sophistication to obtain CARES Act funding before it is depleted. We are extremely fortunate here in Chester County to have such dedicated and savvy public servants,” notes Karen Simmons, President/CEO of the Community Foundation.
On behalf of the County Commissioners, Chair Marian Moskowitz notes, “This fund helps nonprofits deal with COVID-19 impacts on so many levels. Nonprofits serving heightened basic needs such as food, clothing and shelter can get more support. Nonprofits serving seniors and youths can get help reshaping programs. Environmental nonprofits experiencing higher outdoor usage levels as a result of COVID-19 can benefit. And this will help arts, culture and historic preservation nonprofits figure out how to get up and running again, to safely bring back audiences, attract tourism, and engage and inspire all of us.”
Nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organizations located within Chester County since at least 2017 are encouraged to apply for funding. This is a competitive, time-sensitive grants process. Grant decisions will be made weekly by the Community Foundation, on an ongoing basis.
High priority will be given to nonprofits that 1) provide clear evidence of how they aim to/are reshaping their programs, services, and administration in order to safely provide services and thrive in light of COVID-19 impacts; 2) have substantial costs to comply with COVID-19 public health requirements and 3) serve a diverse constituency, and are governed and managed by diverse leadership.
To obtain grant guidelines and submit applications, visit the Chester County Community Foundation at www.chescocf.org or chescocf.org/fund/the-chester-county-nonprofit-innovation-resiliency-fund/. Email questions and applications to grants@chescocf.org.
