The Human Service Chamber of Franklin County (HSC), in partnership with The Columbus Region Green Fund and with Community Renewable Energy, has announced its intention to apply for the U.S. Department of Energy Renew America’s Nonprofits grant as a Prime Recipient.” If awarded, HSC would be responsible for aggregating a portfolio of subrecipient agencies in support of approximately 40 energy efficiency projects that would 1) Reduce carbon emissions across our community, 2) Improve health and safety for agency clients and employees alike, and 3) Lower utility costs for nonprofits, allowing funds to be redirected into delivering services.

“We are excited to apply for the Renew America’s Nonprofits Grant and look forward to working with our partners to support eligible nonprofits in the Columbus Region and ensuring our sector is leading the way consistent with Columbus’ Climate Action Plan,” said Michael Corey, HSC Executive Director. “This would be transformative in preparing nonprofit facilities for a more sustainable future while also supporting the vital work of area nonprofits and saving them precious resources in a time of elevated community need.”

Each subrecipient project would be eligible for awards of up to $200,000. Subrecipients would be 501(c)(3) nonprofits in the 10-county Central Ohio region, and would be selected by a team of experts that would assess proposed projects.

Furthermore, HSC is actively working with partners to generate $2 million in pledges to help offset the grant’s match requirement for subrecipients. This is a key equity priority to ensure more nonprofits would be able to benefit from this grant award.

“At HSC, we are proud to support the innovative nonprofits-supporting-nonprofits funding model and invest in projects that get us closer to reaching Central Ohio’s climate goals,” said Rachael Beeman, HSC’s Director of Climate Strategy. “Every dollar invested in energy improvement projects helps reduce emissions and improve health and safety for residents. By pursuing these grant funds and collaborating with like-minded individuals and organizations, we will maximize our collective impact so nonprofits can continue to allocate every dollar possible to crucial programming.”