Foundations of East Chicago Inc

Quick Stats

• Annual Giving: $2.05 million
• Success Rate: Very competitive (specific rate undisclosed)
• Decision Time: 5-7 weeks
• Grant Range: $5,000 - $35,000 (typical: $15,000)
• Geographic Focus: East Chicago, Indiana only

Contact Details

• Website: https://foundationsec.org/
• Phone: Not publicly listed
• Email: Not publicly listed
• Application Portal: Available through website during application periods

Overview

Foundations of East Chicago Inc (FEC) is a private foundation established in 1997 that serves as a vital funding source for East Chicago nonprofits. With total assets of $40.4 million and annual grant distribution of $2.05 million, the foundation has a unique funding model, receiving 1% of revenue from the Ameristar East Chicago Casino and Hotel. This independent, citizen-run organization focuses exclusively on improving quality of life in East Chicago through strategic grants to local nonprofits. The foundation supports organizations across education, health, safety, and community enrichment sectors, making it one of the most important philanthropic institutions serving this Indiana community.

Funding Priorities

Grant Programs

• Program Grants: $5,000 - $35,000 (annual grants for specific programs with measurable outcomes) - Fixed deadline in November
• General Operating Grants: $5,000 - $35,000 (one-time supplemental funding for budget shortfalls) - Fixed deadline in August
• Collaboration Grants: Variable amounts (for nonprofits working with at least two other organizations) - Part of Program Grants cycle
• Scholarship Programs: Variable amounts (for high school seniors and adult continuing education) - Separate application process

Priority Areas

• Education and Job Training
• Health & Safety Initiatives
• Community Enrichment Programs
• Public Safety
• Youth Development
• Community Economic Development
• Family Support Services

What They Don't Fund

• Speaker fees
• Conferences
• Membership fees
• Utilities
• Advertising
• Furniture
• Home office expenses
• Salaries (for General Operating Grants)

Governance and Leadership

Board Leadership:

• George Weems - Board President
• Nadyne Kokot - Vice President
• Thomas Johnson - Secretary
• Joseph Verduzco - Treasurer
• Richard Peterson - Board Member
• Maria Vargas - Board Member

Staff:

• Rosa M. Peña - Executive Director
• Janet Wozniak - Community Program Director
• Tereka Boone - Education Program Director

The foundation maintains an independent, community-focused governance structure with board members representing various sectors of East Chicago.

Application Process & Timeline

How to Apply

Applications are submitted online through the foundation's website during specific application windows:

• General Operating Grants: Applications available July 28, due August 25
• Program Grants: Applications available October 6, due November 3
• One application per 501(c)(3) organization per cycle
• All applications must be complete - incomplete applications are not accepted

Decision Timeline

• General Operating Grants: 6-7 weeks from deadline to announcement (mid-October)
• Program Grants: 5-6 weeks from deadline to announcement (mid-December)
• Awards announced publicly on the foundation website

Success Rates

The foundation describes their process as "very competitive" and awards between 77-119 grants annually based on recent years. With only one application allowed per organization per cycle, applicants must carefully choose which grant type best fits their needs.

Reapplication Policy

While not explicitly stated, organizations appear to be eligible to apply in subsequent cycles regardless of previous outcomes.

Application Success Factors

Based on the foundation's requirements and past funding patterns:

• Perfect Budget-Narrative Alignment: The foundation explicitly requires that budgets must match narratives perfectly - this is a critical review criterion
• Measurable Outcomes Required: Program grants must include definitive plans with specific, measurable outcomes
• Local Impact Focus: Strongest applications demonstrate direct, tangible benefits to East Chicago residents
• Administrative Cost Limits: For Program Grants, maximum 30% of grant can be used for administration/stipends
• Complete Documentation: Applications must include all required attachments and be 100% complete - partial applications are automatically rejected
• Good Standing Requirements: Organizations must be in good standing with IRS, State of Indiana, and FEC itself
• Collaboration Advantage: The foundation offers specific collaboration grants, indicating they value partnership approaches

Key Takeaways for Grant Writers

• Choose Your Cycle Wisely: With only one application allowed per cycle, carefully assess whether General Operating (August) or Program Grant (November) better fits your needs
• Perfect Your Budget: Budget-narrative misalignment is likely a common rejection reason - review multiple times for consistency
• Emphasize Local Impact: This foundation exists solely to serve East Chicago - demonstrate deep understanding of local needs and community connections
• Apply Early in Window: With fixed deadlines and no acceptance of late/incomplete applications, submit well before deadline to avoid technical issues
• Consider Collaboration: If working with other nonprofits, the Collaboration Grant option may offer competitive advantage
• Focus on Measurability: Include specific metrics, evaluation methods, and realistic timelines for demonstrating program success
• Track Foundation History: Past recipients like Ivy Tech, Boys & Girls Club, and Meals on Wheels indicate foundation values established organizations with proven track records

References

• Foundations of East Chicago official website (https://foundationsec.org/) - Accessed February 2024
• ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer - Foundations of East Chicago Inc Form 990-PF filings - Accessed February 2024
• Candid Foundation Directory Online profile - Accessed February 2024
• Cause IQ nonprofit database entry for EIN 208445003 - Accessed February 2024
• Instrumentl foundation profile - Accessed February 2024
• Northwest Indiana Times coverage of FEC grants - Various articles 2023-2024
• GuideStar profile for Foundations of East Chicago Inc - Accessed February 2024