Supporting History

Go Ahead, Brag About It

Who are you and what have you done?  Though perhaps a bit simplified, this is a very important question that should be addressed when applying for a State Historical Fund grant.  By statute, the Fund can only provide grants directly to public (government) entities and non-profit organizations.  But meeting this requirement alone is not enough; the applicant’s history and background are also important.  When reviewing an application the Fund asks its evaluators to consider several aspects of the applicant’s organization, such as mission, goals, organization, programs, activities, and accomplishments.  Though overzealous boosterism is not needed, this is also not a time to be timid.

In theory, a nonprofit organization could be set up for the sole purpose of meeting the application requirement.  Though every organization has to have a start, one with no track record—particularly in preservation—may not be in a competitive position to obtain SHF funding.  In addition to experience, the make-up of an applicant’s organization is an important consideration.  Are there only two board members (who coincidentally share the same last name), or is the governance strong and diverse?  Do the board members reflect a strong and broad community interest?  Are they knowledgeable about the commitment that running a nonprofit organization requires?

An applicant whose mission includes dealing with historic resources (such as a local historical society) or acting as a responsible custodian of such resources (such as a city, county, school district, church, etc.) should score well.  Application readers consider a proposal based on the application form itself, so any references to community standing, awards, recognition, and other grants it has managed go a long way toward proving capability.  It is this experience and commitment that should be highlighted.  Don’t be afraid to brag a bit.  You are proud of your accomplishments and should tell us why.

Preservation activities that have taken place with the applicant’s own initiatives and funding show a high level of commitment and legitimacy.  Oftentimes a group has had great success on their own but comes to the Fund for an added financial boost that could make the difference between an “OK” project and an outstanding project.  By bringing up past successes, an applicant can show that it has a track record and is ready and capable to carry out more projects.

You cannot assume that a reader knows everything about how strong and substantial your organization is and what “extras” you can provide.  “Resources” does not always mean money.  Perhaps the volunteer base of an organization is particularly strong.  Though in-kind work that they provide does not count as cash match, it certainly signifies community support of a project.  In addition to your own group, a proposal may bring others to the table.  Collaborations are important to getting a project done and your organization’s credibility is strengthened when others are ready to stand beside you.  Tell us about who else thinks your project and organization is important.

So get it right!  The right people with the right attitude and mission, the right expertise and knowledge and the right project add up to the right team to apply for SHF funding.

BY LYLE MILLER, Technical Advisor, State Historical Fund