Beyond the Classroom Grant Program

Beyond the Classroom (BTC) Grant
Despite the importance of OST programs, many face significant challenges, including funding gaps, staffing shortages, transportation barriers, and limited access to resources. Addressing these issues is essential to ensure access to equitable opportunities for students and families.
Beyond the Classroom (BTC) features a rolling application process, with regular review and award cycles to ensure timely support. Rapid Response grants allow OST providers to act quickly and effectively, enhancing their ability to serve families and adapt to changing circumstances.
The purpose of Beyond the Classroom grant funding is to alleviate unexpected needs. It is not intended to enhance or expand current programming. Examples may include facility emergencies, such as equipment failure due to age or usage, a sudden increase in demand for services due to a natural disaster, community trauma, or local emergency, or other unanticipated organizational need.
Out of School Time (OST) program (before or after school or summer program) qualifies for BTC funding.

Eligibility

Nonprofit organizations must have 501(c)3 status (or a fiscal sponsor) and must have received United Way funding through the 2023 Impact Grant or any Welcome Back Summer/ In Person Summer Programming for Children funding cycle. Organizations must operate and serve participants within Allegheny, Armstrong, Butler, Fayette or Westmoreland County.If your organization received In Person Summer Programming funding in 2020 or 2021 or Welcome Back Summer funding at any time, your organization qualifies to apply for a BTC grant.These are some examples of needs that will be considered through this RFP. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list:Food or other basic needs.Transportation services or vehicle repairs.Staff training, professional development or time (related to urgent needs such as response to a local emergency).Supplies and materials to ensure continuity of program operations.Security or safety needs.Equipment or facility repairs. (Additional documentation may be required.)