By Jessica Jewell
We received 14 grant proposals from various Missoula non-profit organizations in response to our Request for Proposals. We spent the week reviewing each proposal carefully. My biggest challenge was being objective and honestly considering how each opportunity could impact our community. Every proposal we received deserves support and could greatly benefit Missoula, even if that support does not come from us. Choosing the best options out of a pile of amazing options is definitely a unique challenge.
We used a chart to help us break down and analyze each proposal thoroughly. We looked at project criteria and project narrative to get a big picture perspective of how each proposal fulfilled all essential requirements, as well as how they compared to one another.
Project Criteria:
· Financials and 501(c)(3) Status
· Long-term Benefit to Missoula
· Collaboration with other Partners/Organizations
· Strong Fit with Need
· Ability to Implement within 12 Months
Project Narrative:
· Need/Problem Clearly Articulated
· Expected Outcomes Stated, Realistic and Measurable
· Methods and Activities to Reach Desired Outcome
· Background of Project
· Additional Support
· Budget Breakdown
We examined how each project met or did not meet each requirement. Our class is very focused on supporting a program that teaches life skills to provide long-term solutions for those with or vulnerable to mental health issues, so we had to be very honest about whether each program would have the kind of specific community impact we were seeking. We had to accept that choosing not to fund a program does not mean it is not an excellent, vital program.
Everyone in the class valued the effort each organization put into writing their grant proposals, and we are grateful that so many organizations are working hard to evoke positive social change in Missoula. Next week we will be discussing which programs will be our finalists so we can narrow down which organizations to visit and learn even more about how they intend to improve the lives of those in our community.