1. Read the full guidelines before writing a single word — eligibility requirements first
2. Write to the funder's priorities, not yours: use their language, cite their stated goals
3. Lead with the problem, then your solution, then your qualifications
4. Support every claim with a number: "We served 47 families" beats "many families"
5. Budget line items must match narrative scope — reviewers check this
6. Get a second reader outside your ministry — clarity matters more than polish

• 501c3 IRS determination letter
• Most recent Form 990 or 990-EZ
• Board of directors list (names + roles)
• Current year organizational budget
• 1-page program / ministry description
• Proof of address (utility bill or lease)
• Volunteer hours log (last 12 months)
• Program participant count + demographics

Use this structure for reporting back to funders after an awarded grant.

1. Executive Summary — 2 sentences: what you did and who benefited
2. Activities — list each program or event with date and participant count
3. Outcomes — 3–5 measurable results (volunteer hours logged, meals served, etc.)
4. Financials — how grant funds were spent vs. budget
5. Photos — 2–4 images with captions (get consent before using people's likenesses)
6. Next Steps — what you plan to do next and how it builds on this grant