Written for You specializes in helping non-profit agencies get the funding they need in order to do the work they do within the community. We provide a variety of services to support that effort from donor identification and research to grant preparation and final reporting. Written for You serves as an extension of your staff, providing the support you need in order to submit timely and high-quality grant proposals.

In order to successfully raise fundraising and grant funds, it is crucial to find potential donors. Rather than attempt to alter programming to fit a funder, it is better to find a funder that is in direct alignment with your agency’s goals, priorities and mission statement. When a funder and an agency have the same goals, priorities and desire to serve the same target population, the results are typically long-lasting and continual relationships.

Written for You provides research services focused on finding the funders that have the most potential for your agency. We do that by utilizing grant research tools and databases such as The Foundation Directory and other online tools. Reviewing 990 forms for funders also gives a historical perspective on long-lasting partnerships the funder has had and gives ranges for potential grant amounts. This information also lays the groundwork for conversations with the funder to confirm a potential fit.

Written for You evaluates your agency and determines which grants and opportunities are the best for your unique situation. Some agencies are ready for larger Federal-type grants, while others are not prepared for the resulting reporting documentation required with larger grants. A unique development plan is established for your non-profit agency in order to help your agency better serve clients.

Written for You also manages grant deadlines for regular clients and provides continual conversation with your agency regarding upcoming deadlines and allocation of workload (should another staff member be assisting in the grant effort).

Most established agencies have all of the required paperwork and documentation in order to pursue grants; however, many have never pursued grants before and are unsure of the process. Our staff will walk you through the process of what documentation is needed (financial documents, IRS paperwork, tax returns, etc.) to collect in order to make the process of submitting your grant applications seamless. We will also ensure that you fully understand the process from start to finish and are always available to answer questions and provide follow up.

We provide limited assistance to start-up agencies, providing guidance and advice on start-up procedures from a funder’s perspective. We do not establish non-profit agencies; we recommend that you contact legal and financial counsel for the specifics of establishing a non-profit agency.

Most funders utilize a formal process in order to evaluate potential grant award recipients. Written for You serves clients with complete proposal (or letter of inquiry) preparation, completing the entire application or proposal and preparing a final document for review, signature and delivery. Each proposal, letter or application is personally crafted to adequately portray your agency, programs and demonstrate financial need. Each custom proposal is specifically geared with the funder in mind, connecting target populations, services and sectors in order to make the case for a positive partnership and relationship.

Most grant awards come with a progress and final report due back to the funder. These can be simple forms providing minor details of numbers served, types of services rendered and total amount spent. They can also be far more in depth, such as detailed financial spreadsheets with proof of expenses and services rendered (attendance sheets, etc.) Typically, private or family Foundations require less final reporting while State and Federal grants require more in depth reporting requirements.