Funding Help

Schools and other agencies frequently use a variety of methods to pay for our programming.  

• For years, Safe and Drug-Free Schools funds distributed to individual districts have been a reliable source of funding for CLIMB programs.  Although this program is ending in 2010, it will be replaced by increased funding for prevention work in the form of competitive grants (see Grants.gov below).  
  
• Looking for funding at the district level?  Start by contacting the business manager at your district office.  In the state of Minnesota, try investigating the Safe Schools Levy.  Most districts in the state receive funding through this source, and part of the income from the levy could be applied to CLIMB programming.  Other Minnesota school districts pay for CLIMB programming through integration funding.  CLIMB provides both plays and classes on Acceptance of Differences, and can customize programming to meet district integration plans.  
• Many schools check their general operating funds first, but if you haven't, that's a great place to start. Specifically, check discretionary funds for prevention, safety, mental health supports, and health promotion; or site budgets for school improvement.  Many schools contract CLIMB to conduct inservices or other forms of professional development.  Contact us - there may be a way your teachers can earn CEUs through a CLIMB visit.  If so, professional development budgets may help to offset the costs. 
• If you haven't already, consider approaching your school's PTA or PTO.  These organizations commonly provide funding for CLIMB programming.  
• If your district has a school district foundation, consider approaching them regarding funding for programming.  These organizations often support programs that reach all children, such as CLIMB Theatre.  

• Local community foundations, hospitals and community health agencies often support wellness and prevention programs, making CLIMB a good fit. Local United Way chapters also support community development in various ways. 

• To find federal funds to help you pay for our program, visit Grants.gov, where you'll find grants from 26 federal agencies, including the Department of Education.  We suggest visiting the Department of Education Forecast of Funding. There, you'll find a list of competitions and programs for which the Department of Education has invited or expects to invite applications.
  
• Consider submitting a project on Donors Choose.  On this site, teachers can post a project for which they need funding.  The need must meet the site's guidelines, which state that "all requested resources must be used by students or directly provide a student experience."  Independent donors can donate any amount toward the cost of the project you describe.
• Peace Maker Foundation is a federated fundraising organization dedicated to raising money exclusively for K - 12 schools.  Peace Maker can serve as a resource for facilitating community investment in Minnesota school-based youth violence prevention efforts.  Inquire with Peace Maker about their matching funds program.  
  

In writing your grant, this research study, conducted by the Collaborative for Academic, Social and Emotional Learning (CASEL), may be helpful.  According to this study, “Research clearly demonstrates the significant role of social and emotional learning in promoting the healthy development and academic achievement of all students. It also shows that social and emotional learning reduces problem behaviors and emotional distress that interfere with the learning and development of some students. Research indicates that social and emotional learning programming significantly raises test scores while it lowers levels of emotional distress; disruptive behavior; and alcohol, tobacco, or other drug use.”