Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are list of questions and explanations.
or
You can click or download our Guidelines in PDF format:
1. Why are the financial reports not in the DCF website?
The rationale not to post financial reports is to reduce and prevent email scams from various parts of the world requesting funds or “help”.
However, the Deaf Community Foundation will certainly provide financial reports and any other information to a member living in British Columbia who has requested access to these reports. The request can be sent through the “Contact” section.
2. Who audited the finances?
The Royal Bank of Canada – Dominion Securities (RBC-DS) which manages the DCF’s investments, does the auditing internally.
3. Is the DCF a non-profit incorporation?
Yes, the DCF is registered with the BC Registry Services as a non-profit incorporation.
4. Who manages the funds?
The funds are managed by the RBC-DS as directed by the Regulators and Board of Directors. The RBC-DS Financial Advisor provides suggestions to ensure continued growth of the investments. They are invested in the securities market such as equities, bonds, mutual funds and GIC’s.
5. What are the funding requirements/criteria?
For more information, please visit these links:
i. Guidelines: http://deafbcfoundation.ca/guidelines/
ii. Application: http://deafbcfoundation.ca/apply/
The key criteria for funding requests are as follows:
a. Associations with charitable registration numbers and other qualified applicant(s) under the Income Tax Act can apply for funding.
b. Organizations who apply for funding must demonstrate fiscal responsibility, accountability and effective management.
c. Fifty-one percent (51%) of the board members should be Deaf.
d. The Foundation does NOT grant or award money to any individual(s) for personal use.
e. If your organization/association meets the guidelines/criteria to apply for funding, you can fill and complete the application form, and send via email or mail to the Foundation at least 12 weeks prior the project’s start date. This is to allow sufficient time for the Foundation to review and process the application.
f. Applicants are invited to submit their proposals at any time throughout the year.
6. What are the differences between associations and foundations?
1. Association: An organization of people having an interest, activity, or a purpose in common; a society having a formal structure. It may refer to voluntary associations, groups of individuals who voluntarily enter into an agreement to accomplish a purpose.
2. Foundation: A legal categorization of non-profit organizations that will typically either grant, distribute, donate funds, provide financial support for other organizations or provide a source of funding for its own charitable purposes.
If you have a question not listed here, please do not hesitate to contact us through the website: http://deafbcfoundation.ca/contact/. Thank you!
Applying for a Grant
1. How do I apply for a grant?
Complete the application form on our website and submit it 12 weeks before your project starts.
2. Who is eligible to apply for funding?
Associations with charitable registration numbers and other qualified applicants under the Income Tax Act.
Apply Now!Eligible Projects
1. What types of projects are eligible for funding?
Arts and culture, educational workshops, health & welfare, information networks, literacy, women’s issues, youth activities, and advocacy projects.
2. What are the values that guide the DCF's funding decisions?
Preservation of Deaf culture & language, volunteer opportunities, dignity and independence, socio-economic support.
Review Process
1. What is the review process for grant applications?
Applications are reviewed by the Program Manager and DCF Directors. Decisions are made within 12 weeks.
2. Can individuals apply for personal funding?
No, the DCF does not award money to individuals for personal use.
Additional Information
1. What should be included in my project proposal?
Clear objectives, support from other funding sources, involvement of Deaf individuals, respect for cultural diversity.
2. Are there any types of projects that are not eligible for funding?
Operational expenses, retroactive funding, projects outside of B.C., religious activities, medical equipment, and several other categories.
Have a new grant in mind? Start todayJoin usLet's talk
We are a foundation that supports your projects, workshops, and events. Schedule an appointment with us to discuss your goals and needs in order to obtain grants from us.
How can I get more information or assistance with my application?
Contact the Program Manager at manager@deafbcfoundation.ca.