The Strength of the Whole Requires the Stability of the Individual

The strength of the whole requires the stability of the individual. It rings true, doesn’t it? Consider the phrase, “the whole is greater than the sum of its parts,” most often attributed to Aristotle. The meaning behind this quote speaks to the effective nature of unity. It is about how, by working together, we can effect great change. Nonprofits act as “the whole,” addressing the needs of the communities they serve. While the individuals who work and volunteer for them are “the parts.” It’s an interesting analogy, don’t you think? However, let’s take a closer look at the unique relationship between nonprofits and the forthright individuals who apply their skills and passion to the causes they undertake. It’s clear, there may be more to that phrase than we realize.

It may be said that nonprofits and the individuals they employ cannot exist without each other. In fact, it’s the perfect symbiotic relationship; one must exist for the other to thrive. To that end, GrantWatch takes pride in being able to help support individuals and the nonprofits they support by providing two extensive lists of grants. We have over 1,700 listings in the Individual grants category. In addition, we also have over 6200 funding opportunities for nonprofit organizations.

A Concept Shared

Separating the individual from the nonprofit is a little like asking, “Who came first, the chicken or the egg?” First, there have always been underserved communities to help, causes to champion, and good fights to be fought. However, the same is true for everyday human beings who work to make the world just a little bit shinier. So, why try to separate them? Why not, instead, appreciate what nonprofits and their supporters all share? Hope. They share the concept of hope with every life they touch.

The Cause Takes on a Life of It’s Own

From Single Perspective to Shared Goals: We each possess unique experiences and perspectives that we bring with us to any endeavor. Those individual qualities, when combined with others, fosters a strong foundation for a nonprofit to do its best work. It’s the diversity of viewpoints that is key to a mutually beneficial relationship.

A Diverse Learning Curve: Where there is diversity, there is cultural exchange. People who reach across the boundaries of tradition, culture, and preconceived notions learn from one another. What’s more, they create lasting bonds that offer support and a real sense of community.

Innovative Collaboration: Allowing for individual creativity and innovation is key to making a feasible collaboration between a nonprofit and the folks who fill its ranks. In fact, the most successful nonprofit organizations will most likely tell you that the impact they have on the communities they serve is directly tied to the value every volunteer and employee brings. A collective intelligence is created and the cause transcends both the individual and the nonprofit.

In closing, it’s clear to see that nonprofits cannot exist in a void. They depend on the people who share their goals. In turn, the individuals who volunteer or work for nonprofits rely on the organization to give them the ability to make real, substantial change in the world. Finally, this interdependence allows the cause to achieve a life of it’s own. It’s a win for all!

Below are some examples of grants and other funding opportunities currently available to help support individuals.

Grants and Opportunities for Nonprofits

1. To start, grants to nonprofit arts organizations and county school boards. Funding provides the public with arts opportunities. In addition, it supports performing arts, presenting artists, visual arts, folk and traditional arts, and media arts.
2. Opportunity for nonprofit organizations, businesses, and service providers to receive mentoring to improve their operations. Funding is for historically underrepresented and excluded individuals.
3. In addition, $500 and $1,000 grants to nonprofit organizations and school districts for children and youth gardening programs. Funding supports the creation or expansion of green spaces and gardens in communities across the country. 
4. Next, funding of up to $10,000 to nonprofit agencies. It benefits low-income residents and supports essential social and public services. For example, medical and dental supplies, Meals on Wheels, school supplies, and caregiver support are some of the planned projects.
5. Finally, grants of up to $500 to nonprofits and businesses for neighborhood improvement projects. Funding strengthens residents’ sense of community, encourage beautification efforts, and empower neighbors to make a difference.

Grants, Fellowships and Opportunities for Individuals

1. First, in-kind grants of home upgrades to individuals in eligible locations. The program is for the implementation of urgent renovations so that local veterans and seniors can avoid displacement. 
2. Fellowships to individuals for research to improve outcomes for people with disabilities. Fellowships are for both early-career and experienced researchers. Funding is to build research capacity by supporting highly qualified individuals. And, it includes those with disabilities, to conduct high-quality research on the rehabilitation of individuals with disabilities.
3. Next, grants of up to $3,000 per quarter to organizations and agencies. In addition, grants of up to $500 per year to individuals and families in eligible counties. Funding is for health needs, education, food, clothing, shelter, and public safety. 
4. Lastly, Grants to grape and wine researchers for projects about the grape/wine industry. Funding supports projects addressing a wide range of focus areas, including enology; grapevine pest and disease management; breeding and genetics; education an outreach; and cultural practices. Research results will be communicated to end-users through outreach and education programs.

We hope this information will be of help to individuals in your community!

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Please Note: GrantWatch cannot guarantee grants will be awarded as a result of this information.