TWENTY YEARS OF HELPING PEOPLE HELP ANIMALS!
December 2024
Dear Friends:
It is hard to believe that we have been awarding grants to animal welfare groups for twenty years now. In that time The Binky Foundation has awarded more than $1.5 million in grants to over 300 animal welfare groups and individuals for all kinds of needs and projects. For the past four years our priority has been our First Steps/Forward Steps grant program designed to recognize newly established groups for taking those steps that are important to achieving long-term sustainability in their community.
As previously reported, our $1000 First Steps grants are awarded to those newly formed groups that meet our three basic requirements: (i) it has received 501c3 status as a public charity within three years of application, (ii) its principals and/or staff have appropriate training in the business of running an animal welfare group as well as in appropriate animal care issues, and (iii) it has a purposeful action/business plan mapping its plans to achieve long-term sustainability in its community.
For 2024, we have awarded forty (40) First Steps grants out of 112 applications, a significant increase over last year’s 30 First Steps grants from 79 applications. This significant increase, we believe, is a result of a growing understanding of the value of our unique program providing grants based on planning, preparation and structure rather than the customary grants for specific or immediate needs.
In 2024, The Binky Foundation also awarded nine (9) Forward Steps grants to 2023 First Steps grantees. These grants are an important barometer for us to know if our requirements, particularly our business/action plan requirement, are helping organizations achieve their goals. We are continuously updating our website and our communications with applicants in an ongoing effort to better explain the purpose and importance of our criteria. Our reward is hearing from grantees in their own words about the lessons learned from our grant process. See examples below (p.2).
With appreciation from the Board,
Michalina Bickford
Kathleen Bickford Berzock
Peter Bickford
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Excerpts from the submissions from 2024 Forward Steps Grant recipients:
As with any startup, whether it’s for profit or non-profit, like ours. If you knew exactly how much effort it would require, how many setbacks you encounter, or even heart-ache… you probably would have never even gotten started. It’s so important to establish a vision, set a mission that envelopes the mission and cherish the smallest wins along the way.
Happy on the Homestead, Elmer, NJ
In reflecting on our start-up experience, we have learned valuable lessons that we believe could benefit others in a similar position. The most important is details, details and then more details in our yearly plan and budget. Our journey has also taught us the importance of resilience, adaptability, and planning in navigating the challenges of starting and running a nonprofit organization.
Aiding 2 Adoption Rescue, Pocatello, ID
In the beginning, you hear “no” a LOT—almost to the point of wanting to quit. It’s a challenging process, filled with rejections until you build credibility and a solid reputation. The First Steps grant provided that crucial validation, affirming that we were on the right track and giving us hope for the future.
Silverstray Social, La Porte, IN
One of the most crucial aspects of our journey was having a solid business plan. A detailed plan provided a clear roadmap for our goals, financial projections, and operational strategies, which was essential for establishing the foundation of our organization.
Lotsa Heart Animal Sanctuary, Aiken, SC
Being awarded the First Steps grant was first and foremost, a great encouragement to us as a new organization. This award encouraged us to look for and apply to other grants and helped validate our efforts. . . . I do not think last year would have been as successful as it was if we had not gone through the process of preparing for the First Steps grant application. You helped set us up for success.
Claws & Toe Beans, Cleburne, TX
Overall, the First Steps grant has been transformative—not only did it strengthen our financial planning, but it also amplified our fundraising capabilities by fostering a more informed and engaged community around our cause.
Amber’s Foundation, Inc., San Juan, PR
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