FAQ

Issue

The CCP Foundation invites risk takers and bold thinkers to step outside of the ordinary to create new possibilities for people with developmental disabilities so they can prosper in their communities.

Our Goal

That people in Minnesota with developmental disabilities will have

the support they need to pursue satisfying lives.

GUIDING PRINCIPLES

While we’re waiting around for that grand idea that will transform the way services are made available to people with developmental disabilities, we think that we should start making modest changes to get more and better support into the hands of people who need it.

The CCP Foundation believes that small initiatives working outside of the system can make change happen.  The Foundation works to promote innovation and participation in community programs and services, increased opportunities for individuals, and increased public support to ensure that individuals with disabilities are valued, contributing members of their communities.  We believe that replicable foundation projects could serve as an inspiration and model for others to consider.

On the most immediate level, better services could be available for some people directly involved in projects sparked by the Foundation.  Then, others might benefit by replication of ideas that work.  If enough ideas work, perhaps policy makers will take note and positive system change would result. 

We believe that there are thinkers and doers who have ideas about how to make small changes for big impact in the lives of people with developmental disabilities.  We seek to encourage risk-takers who have the vision and ability to make these changes happen.

How was The Foundation created?

The CCP Foundation was created in 2005 with a founding grant from Community Connections Partnership and with significant support from The Cooperating Community Programs.

What do you support?

We support modest, simple and practical ideas that lead to actual change. 

What do you fund?

Programs or projects that focus on providing more, better or unpaid services or natural supports for persons with developmental disabilities, including:

• seed money or start up funds

• micro-enterprise needs

• equipment, housing and employment programs

• transportation

• direct support services and staff training

• children, youth, school, outdoor adventure or recreational programs

• programs that may take longer than one calendar year

Particularly interested in:

• simple, creative ideas

• innovative ideas, proposals, and service delivery models

• community alliances with non-traditional systems of support

• projects with community interest: the ability to combine our efforts with other types of community support

What type of funding is available?

modest Grant supported-efforts to provide more or better services 

Technical assistance to advance ideas (through in-kind services) or stipends for assistance,  

         project planning, or micro-enterprise needs

Educational, conference, or symposium sponsorships

How do I apply?

Download the guidelines at right.  Follow the directions or contact The Foundation to have the guidelines mailed to you.

Who qualifies?

We do not fund:

• lobbying, advocacy, or political activities

• ongoing general operating expenses or existing deficits

• endowments or fundraising events

• programs outside Minnesota

• applicants that do not have a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit status or a fiscal sponsor with a 501 (c) 3 status

How are recipients selected?

Through a thoughtful review process by the staff and the Board of Directors.  The grant process begins with a brief letter of interest (no more than two pages), and if invited, an expanded application will need to be completed.  Applications for Technical Assistance and/or Stipends need to be on the Technical Assistance Request form and the request cover sheet, we will be considered on an ongoing basis as they are submitted, and as long as funds are available and/or service can be arranged.  Sponsorships for educational events, conferences, or symposiums are considered as they are requested, and as the opportunities fit our mission.

What does technical assistance mean?

Technical assistance is intended to initiate or develop new ideas, help eliminate hurdles, barriers, or gaps in project planning or provide development through in-kind services or stipends.  Among other things, technical assistance can be professional services, technology or equipment needs.

How can I donate my services as a technical assistance volunteer?

Contact The Foundation office at 651-356-1013 or email the Foundation Administrator at jammihb@ccpfoundation.org.

What type of sponsorships do you consider?

Educational events, speakers, conferences, or symposium sponsorship requests are awarded based on The Foundation priorities and as they fit with our mission seek to instigate action that leads to better opportunities for people with developmental disabilities.