Grantmaking Program


The Berwick Health and Wellness Fund LogoThe Foundation invites inquires and applications for grants that benefit the communities and residents of 8 boroughs and 15 townships in the greater Berwick area of eastern Columbia and western Luzerne counties. These grants are awarded through the Berwick Health and Wellness Fund (BHWF), an $28 million endowment created through the sale of the Berwick Hospital in 1999.

Competitive Grantmaking A competitive grant process occurs twice annually. Grant proposals are reviewed through a two-step process, beginning with a brief Part I - Intent to Apply. Proposals that meet the Fund's eligibility criteria and priority areas of interest are invited to submit full proposals. Next deadline to be announced.

Technical Assistance and Capacity Building for Nonprofits The Foundation encourages nonprofit organizations to secure the professional and technical assistance they need to enhance their organizational capacity and effectiveness. Organizations may seek up to $1,000 for assistance with strategic planning, program planning, evaluation, board governance, fiscal and human resource management, fund development and strategic partnerships. No deadlines.

Discretionary Small Grants At the discretion of the Executive Director, small grants of $4,000 or less may be awarded for purposes that improve the quality of life and wellbeing in our grantmaking area. No deadlines.

Proactive grantmaking for special initiatives: The Foundation staff and board occasionally undertake special initiatives to address existing and emerging community needs and opportunities. Grant proposals are developed or solicited by Foundation staff based on clear evidence of need, opportunity for innovation, successfully evaluated interventions, and lessons learned from community practitioners.