We define “underserved” as people without access to quality services primarily due to their economic circumstances. Our goal is to fund programs that specifically target this population.
We do not have deadlines for LOIs. We review LOIs as we receive them, and assign them docket placement for board review on a first-come, first-serve basis.
For program support requests, expect our response within 4 weeks about next steps.
DSYF will respond with a final decision within 4 months.
Once DSYF determines that the request is relevant to our funding interests and within our geographic funding area, we will review the submission for clarity, quality, need, and strength. At this stage, we will either forward proposal application materials, ask for a conference call, or send a declination letter.
The approval process can take between 6-9 months, depending on the timing of your LOI submission and the scheduled board meetings.
The board meets three times a year, generally in February, June, and October.
We consider general operating support requests from organizations that serve youth only.
After the staff has reviewed your LOI and/or your grant proposal, we may contact you to schedule a site visit. If you would like to invite a staff member to a special program or event, you are welcome to submit an invitation.
In fairness to organizations that adhere to our deadlines, we do not offer extensions for any reason. Late submissions can affect future funding from DSYF.
We do not currently make multi-year grants. Organizations are eligible to reapply for funding after their final report due date.
After you submit your final report and on or after you final report due date, you are eligible to reapply for funding. At that time, your new request will follow the same process as your previous submission.
Declined organizations can reapply for funding one year from the date of their original request.
If you’ve been recently declined, please contact Wendy Chang before submitting a new request.
If you do not currently have a request in to DSYF, please contact Wendy Chang to learn about our funding interests. If your question is about a pending or approved grant request, or general DSYF information, please contact Erin Sundell. DSYF staff can be reached at 310.777.5050.