Funding Criteria for All Grants
-- Seed Fund
-- Emergency Fund
-- Technical Assistance Fund
-- Youth Fund for Social Change
-- The Fire This Time Fund
Grantmaking Process
FAQ

EMERGENCY FUND APPLICATION & GUIDELINES

Due to the nature of this grant, the completed application may be e-mailed () or faxed (773.227.7790).

Purpose

• The Emergency Fund supports community groups in organizing quick actions in response to a sudden development outside of the organization’s control. The maximum grant is $500.

Eligibility

• Organizations meeting Crossroads' funding criteria
• Organizations with annual expenses under $300,000
• Priority given to Crossroads grantees

Emergency Fund Examples include:

• legislative hearings with very short notice
• breaking news about US military action
• unexpected opportunity for organizing/gatherings such as a surprise visit by a national figure

The Emergency Fund does NOT support:

• expenses resulting from budget shortfalls or a lack of planning
• on-going, regularly scheduled programs
• start-up or general operating costs

Proposal Narrative

Please address each question below within 2 pages with a 12 point or larger font. If you have received a Crossroads grant in the last 12 months, only complete questions #2 and #3.

1. Overview

• Briefly describe your organization’s history, purpose, and the type of work it does.
• Please explain how you meet Crossroads’ Funding Criteria.

2. Emergency Need

• What is the nature of the emergency? Why is this situation an emergency?
• What activities will be carried out?
• What result do you want to see? What impact do you want to make with the work?

3. Budget

• What is the budget for this emergency work?
• How much are you requesting from the Crossroads Fund?
• What is the organizational budget?

Cover Sheet  

Include the following cover sheet with your narrative: 

cover sheet (Microsoft Word fill-in form)

cover sheet (pdf)

You will need Adobe Reader to download this form.  (Download Adobe Reader here.)  If you are unable to download this form, call the office (773.227.7676) for a fax.

Alternative format:  You may create your own Cover Sheet

(Snail) Mail It To Me!  

Guidelines and applications can also be mailed to you via snail mail... just send us an email at and we'll send them along to you.  Please let us know:

• organization name

• contact name

• phone number (in case your packet is returned)