GRANTS ALLOCATION COMMITTEE

Our Grants Allocation Committee (GAC), comprised of female and male community members of all ages and backgrounds, grants money to local organizations that improve the lives of women and girls. GAC ensures that CCFWG is addressing the needs of Chester County through its inclusive and community-driven process. To date, GAC has directed $3 million to 75 non-profit organizations. GAC is not accepting new members at this time. However, if you wish to receive more information or be considered in the future, contact Executive Director Michelle Legaspi Sanchez at michelle@ccfwg.org

The group provides an excellent point of entry for new volunteers wishing to gain an in-depth understanding of needs within the county, and those who are willing to commit substantial time to their volunteer efforts. CCFWG’s grantmaking program is unique in that decisions are made by a group of diverse individuals connected to Chester County. Since most of its 18-20 participants are new to the work of CCFWG, they receive training for evaluating proposals and participating on site visits. After thoughtful consideration, the informed group then makes final funding decisions through the process of consensus. Granting decisions differ every year. However, the recurring critical needs addressed include safe housing, job training, pre-natal health and infant care, domestic violence, food security, and education, among others.

See the complete list of CCFWG grantees here. 

To participate on GAC, members must attend six two-hour evening meetings and at least two agency site visits between February and April. The GAC experience has been described by previous members as “life changing.”