How Is SAFE WA Funded, Here are For Answers

How is SAFE WA funded is a question we get asked a lot.

And since SAFE WA is not a state agency, that means we are constantly looking for new or additional funding streams.

So, here's how SAFE WA is funded...

• State Funding
  Every year, there are grants available for non-profits from a variety of in-state sources. The Mental Health Division (MHD) of Washington's Department of Social and Human Services sets aside funds for projects just like SAFE WA. To secure these funds, we must review the conditions of the grant, determine the amount to request, and then submit a proposal for the funds.

  In the proposal, there must be budget that breaks down what dollar amount is to be spent on what category, wages, travel, writing and creating a training or workshop, printing, pay the trainers, lodging and meals, equipment, office supplies, printing costs, insurance, etc.

  On the proposal form, there must be a detailed explanation of the goals of the training, workshop, retreat, etc.

  How many people will be served by this project, what are the benefits of providing the service, the timeline for delivery, etc.

  Depending on the size of the grant, this process can take from a few days, to a few weeks, to complete. The request package is then submitted by the due date established, to the agency offering the grant.

  Then the funder has to review the merits of all applications submitted, did they meet the goals of the request, how many people are to be served, and the rest of their judging criteria.

  The funder then determines who gets the funds, based on the applications submitted, and then the grant is awarded...

  If SAFE WA is the successful applicant, the wheels begin to turn, since there is a deadline on the "deliverables". Plans must be finalized, documents printed and assembled, reservations made, food ordered, etc...

  This funding process is very similar to a contractor, you find out about the job, you prepare your bid, submit it, and wait for the good news that you got the job. However, as in the case of the contractor, you can't get every job you bid, and SAFE WA doesn't get every grant they apply for.

  So, you must somewhat selective in which grants to apply for. It is not easy, this grant funding system, but it is the way non-profit business is done.

  That's one answer to the question "How is SAFE WA funded?"

  SAFE WA receives federal and state funding, private donations, and seeks opportunities for fund raising.

• Federal funding
  The process for securing a federal grant is almost identical to the state funding process outlined above. The big difference is that that there is a lot more money available from federal sources, since they collect more taxes and revenue.

  That's the good news. The bad news is that since there is so much more funding allocated, the competition is even more fierce, than that of state funding.

  And again, a lot of time and energy is spent preparing and submitting the grant application. So, SAFE WA must be selective in what it applies for. Our Executive Director, with support from network members, is constantly looking for new ways to get funded, so we can continue to do the good work that we do.

  So, that is the second answer for "How is SAFE WA funded?"

• Private donations
  Since SAFE WA is a certified non-profit organization, which means we meet the criteria of a non-profit as established by the IRS, we can also accept private donations from individuals or other business entities.

  So, if you or your business makes a donation to SAFE WA, it is a tax deduction for you or the business. This is an excellent way to help SAFE WA do the good work that we do, and also save some money on your own tax liability.

  If you decide to make a donation, we will mail you a receipt for your donation so be sure to include your mailing address in your correspondence. We will post news of your donation on our "Sponsor SAFE WA" page of our website unless you indicate to us otherwise. Please indicate if your donation is "in memory of" or "in honor of" if applicable so we may post this information as well.

  Here is where to send your tax deductible donation:
  

  SAFE WA
  PMB 161
  17404 Meridian East, Suite S
  Puyallup WA 98375
  

  So there is the third answer to "How is SAFE WA funded?"

• Fund Raising
  We are always on the lookout for a good fund raising opportunity. Last year, we sold green wristbands (Green is the official color for Children's Mental Health Matters), and generated some additional revenue that way.

  If you have an idea for a fund raising event, PLEASE let us know by using the Contact us page.

  And that is the fourth answer to "How is SAFE WA funded?"