Application Guidelines

The Rip Van Winkle Foundation awards grants for projects that have the potential for national impact or replication nation-wide. Grants are primarily awarded as seed money to start-up projects, are not given to support ongoing programs, and are not awarded directly to individuals. Its areas of interest include:

  • Exploration of programs that enhance the health status of children and youth
  • Programs that benefit populations with chronic illnesses
  • Programs or activities that stimulate the thinking of health care industry leaders

In addition, the Foundation actively pursues identifying and publicly recognizing individuals and organizations for their contributions to preventive services. Applicants are encouraged to send a short query letter that sets forth the need, nature and amount of their request. Applicants will be advised of the results of an initial staff review within one month. Letters may be made by writing or e-mail, and should include the following:

  • Contact name
  • Legal name of grantee organization
  • Proof of not-for-profit status
  • Complete mailing address
  • Phone numbers
  • Email addresses
  • Purpose of grant (one sentence description)
  • Project description including:
    • Statement of problem
    • Description of the projects targeted audience(s)
    • Project design, including schedule and work plan (if applicable)
    • Description of potential national impact or replication
    • Description of projects expected outcomes
    • Estimated total project cost and amount requested from the Foundation
    • Organization staffing and financial resources

    Deadlines

    Letter of intent: May be submitted anytime, but no later than April 1. The scope of the proposal as outlined in the letter of intent will be reviewed and the grant seeker will be notified by May 1 regarding its acceptance.

    Proposal: Due July 1 Six copies of the complete proposal are due by midnight July 1. The Foundation will respond to all grant seekers by August 1. The Foundation makes grants only to organizations, and does not support:

    • General operations, ongoing activities, or existing deficits
    • Endowment or capital costs
    • Churches or other religious organizations
    • Work for achievements which cannot be measured.

    All correspondence and proposals should be sent to: