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• A demonstrated connection between the project and the applicant’s passion, life experience. 

• Projects that are innovative and timely; an idea, angle or approach that has not been pursued widely and /or that addresses important current issues. If the project is an expansion of an existing program, there must be a clear demonstration of new features or major additional outreach or impact.

 

• The social change/public service/social entrepreneurship component needs to be both clear and integral to the project. It is not the intention of the Foundation to fund internship requirements, research without parallel service, development of a website without parallel service, or creation of a publication without parallel service.    

 

• Projects which engage other students, local participants and/or local businesses. We like to see a “multiplier effect”. Therefore, tutoring/school based projects need to be scalable- multiple classes or ideally, multiple schools.

 

• Planning: Include a budget, a realistic timeline, and strategies for actual implementation; i.e. how you will mobilize volunteers, acquire necessary permits or access additional resources where necessary. Note: applicants may opt to use additional monies allocated to the scholarship portion of the award in order to accommodate project budgets that exceed $8,000.

 

• If the project is to be done with a parent/partner institution, proof of an established relationship with that organization’s leadership, and its support for the project (and where the project will be housed) should be included with the proposal.  Ideally, this is verified through a Letter of Support/Recommendation from the parent/partner institution. (See Sample)

 

• A timeline that indicates an early start and closure or evaluation within the school year, preferably by April, in time for the spring meeting.

 

• A timeline for implementation and plans for future leadership. Assure continuity/sustainability of the Project.

 

• Projects sustained over the school year—rather than one or two day events.

 

• Projects implemented during the summer will be allowed only if the project has an ongoing commitment and involvement throughout the Award year.​

 

• Projects with major, direct social change impact, and with an indication of how success will be measured.