The Escondido Community Foundation (ECF) is in its 15th grant cycle of grantmaking to enhance the quality of life for those who live, work and play in Escondido. ECF invites nonprofit organizations to submit project proposals specifically for programs that improve the social and emotional well-being in the community.

The mission and purpose of ECF, an affiliate of The San Diego Foundation (TSDF), is to improve the quality of life in Escondido by meeting emerging needs through:

• Encouraging and increasing responsible and effective philanthropy,
• Building a community endowment,
• Providing funds annually to organizations and causes, and
• Giving the community a vehicle for legacy planning and cash gifts that will benefit Escondido annually and in perpetuity.

The vision of ECF is to inspire a culture of giving that supports, strengthens and enriches the quality of life in the Escondido community now and for generations to come. From improving quality of life to rejuvenating the bonds of communities, the contributions of ECF members stimulate a sense of common purpose by bringing people together to address essential and emerging needs.

Focus Areas

ECF will accept Letters of Intent for projects that will improve the social and emotional well-being in the community by addressing any of the following issues:

• Social Isolation: The effects of social isolation include a steep increase in mental health concerns, substance abuse and domestic violence.
• Anxiety, Depression, Suicide: Current data reflects an increase in chronic stress, pervasive hopelessness and helplessness, and feelings of loss and isolation, which are key factors that can increase an individual’s risk of suicide.
• Abuse: Domestic abuse is also increasing and affects adults and children. Possible solutions could include services such as counseling, child care, legal assistance, safe shelter, and housing.
• Support for Young People: The increase in social and emotional stress is particularly acute in young people. Many are at risk of being left behind in education and employment opportunities.

Funding Information

• The funding range is $15,000 to $35,000.

Eligibility Criteria

• To be eligible, all applicants must meet the following criteria:
  • Grants must be administered by a 501(c)(3) public charity, or an organization that is fiscally sponsored by a 501(c)(3), a school, or other government agency. The Foundation does not make grants to supporting organizations or private, non-operating foundations
  • If organization is using a fiscal sponsor, a cooperative relationship between the two must be clearly demonstrated
  • Project must be achievable within a 12-month time frame
  • Funding may be used to expand existing programs, replicates programs tested in other communities, launch new efforts or reintroduce former programs/or events
  • Project must have prospects for long-term sustainability (future funding, viability, etc.)
• Projects must meet the following criteria:
  • Serve Escondido residents within the geographic boundaries of the greater Escondido area (as defined by the Escondido Union High School District boundaries to include the San Pasqual Valley, up to Deer Springs Road by Lawrence Welk and out toward Del Dios).
  • Support and invest in Escondido’s general population.
  • Be achievable within a 12-month time frame.
  • Have measurable outcomes, which are clearly defined.
  • Outline strategies and approaches for success.

For more information, visit The Foundation.