Community Foundation opens Okanogan Valley Fund grant cycle

OKANOGAN — The Community Foundation of North Central Washington has opened applications for its 2025 Okanogan Valley Fund grant cycle, which provides financial support to nonprofits serving Okanogan County.

The grant program, which opened February 1, offers a minimum award of $2,000 to eligible organizations. Final grant amounts will be determined by the Okanogan Valley Local Advisory Board, with applications due by March 15.

Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) public charities operating within Okanogan County school district boundaries, excluding the Methow Valley. While government agencies and faith-based organizations can apply for project-specific funding that aligns with foundation guidelines, K-12 public schools are not eligible to apply directly. However, fiscal sponsorships are permitted if the sponsor holds 501(c)(3) status.

"I've spent my entire life in Okanogan County," said Leeanne Montoya, Local Advisory Board member. "This place is special; you don't have to go far to enjoy Mother Earth, especially around our beautiful lakes. I'm honored to serve on this board and support nonprofits that preserve what makes our community strong for future generations."

The fund aims to provide long-term support for charitable initiatives benefiting local residents. A Local Advisory Board consisting of community members oversees the annual grant distributions to ensure alignment with county needs.

The foundation has established a Founders Circle for donors contributing $5,000 or more to the endowed fund. These contributions support larger grant distributions that will continue in perpetuity.

Established in 1986, the Community Foundation of North Central Washington currently manages $163 million in assets through more than 690 individual funds. The organization has distributed over $63 million in grants and scholarships throughout Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties.

Interested organizations can apply through the foundation's website at www.cfncw.org/okanoganvalleyfund. Questions about the application process should be directed to Jennifer Short, Director of Community Grants, at jennifer.s@cfncw.org..