The Grafton Fund

It takes a strong foundation

The Grafton Fund was established by the Windham Foundation Board of Trustees in response to inquiries from friends who wish to provide more direct support for the Foundation’s charitable programs than is possible through a stay at The Old Tavern or the purchase of Grafton Village Cheese.

If you would like to help the Foundation pursue its charitable goals, you can make a tax-deductible contribution to the Windham Foundation, designating The Grafton Fund (see below contact information). For those interested in planned giving, we invite you to review information on The Dean Mathey Society.

Purpose

The Grafton Fund supports special programming and events that contribute to the cultural, social, artistic and recreational vitality of the Grafton area for residents and visitors. Grants are also considered for one-time, special need projects that have significant benefit to the entire community. The Fund is supported through donations and an annual grant from The Windham Foundation. Requests are considered twice a year, and approved by the Windham Foundation Board of Trustees, upon the recommendation of the President of the Foundation. The President may consult with an informal advisory committee of local residents in making his recommendations.

As a guideline, most awards are in the $2,000-$3,000 range, however compelling projects with larger requests will be considered.

2009 Applications

If you wish to apply, please send a brief letter or email telling us about the proposed activity or event, the budget and how it enhances the cultural, artistic or recreational life in Grafton for its residents and visitors.

Send to Becky Nystrom by March 20, 2009 by email or mail:

Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Mail: Windham Foundation, PO Box 70, Grafton, VT 05146

2009 Fund Recipients

April 2009

Grafton Public Library
Funding of special programming at the library including the Vt. Humanities Council reading & discussion series, as well as an investment in technology.

The Nature Museum at Grafton
Purchase of digital diorama exhibit frames, as well as accompanying technology.

Grafton Cares
Funding to purchase additional furniture and materials to maintain upkeep & services.

October 2009

The Nature Museum at Grafton

Funding to purchase an Elmo TT-02RX "Teacher's Choice" Visual Presenter and a wall/ceiling mount projector screen 70" X 70".

Grafton Elementary School

Funding to facilitate further engagement of the school and its students in Grafton activities and in the communications of Grafton's history to visitors.

As noted above, The Grafton Fund has a distinct purpose apart from the Windham Foundation grants program.  The fund does not provide grants for ongoing nonprofit programs and services nor for an organization's operational and capital needs. Those requests are considered through the grants program.  Information about the grants program guidelines and timelines is available here.