Transformational Grants

Geographic Scope: McHenry County, Illinois

Overview:
The Transformational Grant program provides substantial funding to charitable organizations demonstrating innovative approaches to creating meaningful, multi-level change in McHenry County. Organizations can win up to three consecutive years for a possible total of $225,000.

Focus Areas

Grants support projects in any charitable area that demonstrates:

• True breakthroughs in McHenry County
• Focus on collaboration with community partners
• Positive, multi-level systemic change
• Innovation and problem-solving
• Real-world solutions to community challenges

Eligibility

• Charitable organizations serving McHenry County
• Organizations with strong collaborative partnerships
• Agencies demonstrating strategic planning and execution capacity
• Organizations eligible to apply annually
• Organizations may win up to 3 consecutive years

Past Recipients (2020)

• City of Woodstock: Age-Friendly Livable Community Initiative ($74,951)
• Friends of McHenry County College Foundation: Bridge to Success employment training ($75,000)
• Community Crosswalk: Health Ministries reducing health disparities ($60,000)

Contact

Location: 33 E Woodstock St. Crystal Lake, IL 60014

Application Process

Applications for Transformational Grants are accepted annually, with applications opening in January.

Steps:

1. Review grant guidelines and requirements
2. Attend optional Foundation workshops and information sessions
3. Submit complete application by deadline
4. Foundation reviews and evaluates proposals
5. Successful applicants are notified

Required Elements:

• Demonstration of how proposal creates true breakthroughs in McHenry County
• Clear focus on collaboration and multi-level change
• Evidence of strong community partnerships
• Strategic approach to implementation
• Measurable outcomes and impact potential

Note: The Foundation provides workshops and additional resources for charitable organizations preparing applications.