Thomas H. & Mary Williams Shoemaker Fund Grant

The Thomas H. & Mary Williams Shoemaker Fund Grant supports nonprofit organizations aligned with the Religious Society of Friends' strategic goals, particularly innovative projects that enhance monthly meetings. Grants range from a few hundred to over $200,000, typically distributed over 1-3 years. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and demonstrate a strong connection to the Fund's objectives. Preference is given to Quaker organizations, particularly those connected to the Philadelphia Yearly Meeting.

The Shoemaker Fund Trustees invite nonprofit organizations to apply for grants for projects in line with our strategic goal of renewing and strengthening the Religious Society of Friends. We welcome efforts toward this goal from Quaker organizations, as well as from meetings. We are keenly interested in projects that bring innovation and vitality to monthly meetings and can be replicated in other meetings.
Funding
Grants have ranged from several hundred dollars to over $200,000. Grants may be distributed over 1-3 years.

Eligibility

Organizations must be tax-exempt, with full listings filed with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service.Inquiries are evaluated by the Shoemaker Fund Trustees using the following criteria:Organizations that have not previously received support from the Shoemaker Fund
A clearly articulated connection between the project objectives and the Fund’s strategic goal.
Innovative collaboration between Quaker organizations, including monthly meetings.
Creative thinking that goes beyond structures or programs that have served the Religious Society of Friends in the past.
Clear possible outcomes of the project, such as increases in attendance/membership, production of materials/programs, development of young leaders, etc.

Ineligibility

The Fund does not provide annual operating funds, but supports specific projects and the overhead costs associated with them that address the strategic goal stated above. The Fund also does not make grant awards to endowments.