Sustainers Grant

Geographic Scope: Berks County, Pennsylvania area

Program History: Awarding grants since 2009 (17+ years of funding)

Focus Areas:

• Direct programs with measurable outcomes
• Youth empowerment
• Programs serving low-income children
• Creating, improving, and expanding resources and opportunities for youth growth, development, and overall welfare
• Leadership development in communities

Mission Alignment: Preference given to programs that align with the JLR focus statement: "The trained volunteers of The Junior League of Reading, PA, Inc. are focused on empowering youth by creating, improving, and expanding the resources and opportunities available for their growth, development and overall welfare, so they can become stewards of leadership in their communities."

Funding Source: Sustainers of the Junior League of Reading raise money annually, with the Poinsettia Luncheon (hosted Thursday after Thanksgiving at Berkshire Country Club) serving as their biggest fundraiser.

Award Timeline:

• Applications due: March 1
• Awards announced: April
• Payments issued: Before May 31

2025 Grant Recipients:

• Berks Youth Chorus: $500
• Connections Work: $2,500
• Girls on the Run: $1,000
• Opportunity House: $2,300
• Voice Up: $1,500

Address: 1520 Penn Ave, Wyomissing, PA 19610

Application Process

Submission Methods:

1. Online Application: Apply through the online portal (APPLY ONLINE HERE link provided)
2. Paper Application: Download paper application and email completed form

Required Materials:

• Completed application form
• IRS W-9 form
• Any attachments related to the application

Submission Requirements:

• All materials must be received via email
• Submit to: Sustainergrant@jlreading.org
• Deadline: March 1 (must be received by this date to be eligible for current calendar year distribution)

Evaluation Criteria:
Applications are judged based on:

• Direct program impact with measurable outcomes
• Service to low-income children
• Alignment with JLR focus statement on youth empowerment