Overview
Forever Warriors Foundation, established by Step One Automotive Group, is partnering with United Way Emerald Coast (UWEC) to launch an exciting new investment opportunity. This fund is designed to enhance our joint efforts to support innovative programs that align with community-wide goals. United, we will build a diverse cohort of on-the-ground programs that benefit active-duty service members, reservists, and veterans in Okaloosa and Walton counties. Together, we are committed to empowering local non-profits, fostering their growth, and amplifying their impact.
Timeline
The first cohort of grants will be selected as soon as possible and funded through December 2024. This cohort is by invitation only. A second cohort will receive funding from January - March 2025, and a third cohort from April - June 2025. Applications for the second and third cohorts will open in October 2024.
Please note that unsolicited, late, incomplete, emailed and/or paper applications will not be accepted.
Availability of Funding
Forever Warriors Foundation’s investment will be distributed across three cohorts from September 2024 to June 2025, with grant funding in two key areas:
1. Reintegration and Support Services: Increasing the number of active-duty members and veterans who take successful steps towards their transition to civilian life. Up to $45,000 available.
2. Resiliency and Well-Being Support: Increasing the number of active-duty members and veterans who report a decrease in symptoms of stress, anxiety and/or depression and an increase in their ability to effectively manage crisis situations. Up to $45,000 available.
We anticipate grant amounts will range between $5,000 and $15,000. However, there are no minimum or maximum grant amounts that applicants may apply for, provided requests do not exceed the total available funds.
This is a reimbursable grant. Organizations must collect and report basic demographic information (military/veteran status and area of residence) along with program deliverables. Reimbursements will be issued monthly (through the duration of the grant period) upon receipt of complete and accurate monthly reports, including demographics, deliverables, and an invoice.
Selection Process
A competitive grant process is expected. Not all applicants may be selected, and some programs may be partially funded. Applications will be evaluated based on alignment with priority areas, impacts, utilization of funding and other criteria as established by UWEC and/or Forever Warriors Foundation.
Selected organizations will be expected to provide co-branding recognition to both Step One Automotive Group and Forever Warriors Foundation. Specific details will be outlined in a Contract, with recognition expected on social media, marketing collateral, and other relevant platforms.
Unless otherwise stated, UWEC’s 2024-25 Community Investment Guidelines will also apply to this funding opportunity.
