Community Impact Grants

Eligibility

To be eligible for a grant from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, an organization must have:

• An IRS Letter of Determination that shows the organization is a 501(c)3 public charity.
• At least one current program with local impact in one of the following counties: Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, or DeSoto.
• An approved/current profile in The Giving Partner, a powerful, searchable online database with more than 750 profiles of charitable organizations serving Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, and DeSoto counties.
• No outstanding grant reports to the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. 

Focus Areas for Impact

Community Care

The Community Foundation supports programs and partnerships that respond to community needs. Priority is given to programs that increase access to essential services and strengthen community well-being.

• Health – Improving access to healthcare for populations that experience barriers to care.
• Mental and Behavioral Health – Expanding access to therapy, counseling, peer support, crisis intervention, and other behavioral health services.
• Providing Stability – Helping individuals and families access housing, supportive services, and basic needs.
• Food Insecurity – Increasing access to nutritious food for individuals and families experiencing food insecurity.
• Placemaking – Strengthening neighborhoods and fostering connections that help individuals and families thrive.

*If your proposal is focused on the environment, animal welfare or disaster recovery and resilience, it will be better aligned with another initiative, follow the link or email: impact@cfsarasota.org for more information.

Empowerment and Success

The Community Foundation of Sarasota County supports programs that help individuals build the knowledge, skills, and connections needed to thrive while increasing economic mobility and resilience.

• Developing Community Networks – Building relationships and support systems that connect individuals with resources and opportunities.
• Youth Leadership – Preparing young people for future success through leadership development, entrepreneurship, career exploration, and life skills.
• Workforce Development and Economic Mobility – Helping individuals gain the skills needed to secure quality employment and achieve financial stability.

*If your program primarily focuses on youth education or postsecondary pathways for parents, your request may be better suited for our education initiative. Please email: impact@cfsarasota.org

Belonging and Culture

The Community Foundation supports organizations and programs that strengthen families, bridge generations, foster community connections, and expand access to culture and the arts.

• Strengthening Family Connections – Supporting programs that help families build healthy relationships and long-term stability.
• Bridging Generations – Creating opportunities for meaningful interaction and mutual support across generations.
• Cultural Development and Arts – Expanding access to arts, culture, and creative experiences for underserved populations.

*Our priority areas may evolve throughout the year in response to new data and emerging community needs. We are committed to staying responsive, inclusive, and family-centered in everything we do. Any updates will be provided on our website.