The Densford Fund

Grants

At The Riverside Church, we are committed to making a meaningful impact beyond our walls. Through our Sharing and Densford Funds, we aim to uplift marginalized voices and support community-focused projects that align with our mission.

Established in the 1970s through a generous bequest to The Riverside Church, the Densford Fund is committed to expanding educational opportunities for American Indian youth up to age 25. Through targeted grants, the fund supports initiatives that empower Indigenous communities, foster academic achievement, and create pathways for a brighter future.

Funding

The Densford Fund provides grants of up to $10,000.

Funding may be used for project support or general operating expenses directly tied to program services. However, the fund prioritizes projects that maximize direct impact and does not typically cover overhead or administrative costs unrelated to program delivery.

What We Fund

We support organizations/projects that:

Provide services or advocacy for underserved and marginalized communities.

Address issues such as racism, homophobia, sexism, ageism, chronic illness, violence, and economic hardship (e.g., hunger, homelessness, lack of healthcare or education).

Responds to the educational needs of American Indian youth, empowering them to overcome systemic barriers and access opportunities for growth and success.

Foster inclusivity and benefit target populations without regard to religious affiliation.

 

Load More

Grant Eligibility

To be eligible for a grant, proposed projects must:

Align with The Riverside Church’s mission.

Address needs of access to education, drugs/alcohol rehabilitation, and programs culturally based.

Demonstrate a clear impact on American Indian youth (up to age 25) and communities.

Serve individuals and communities without regard to religious affiliation.

Densford Fund applicants must have tribal recognition from the U.S. Department of the Interior.

 

How to Apply

2024 – 2025 Funding Cycle

The Sharing Fund Committee will review grant applications according to the following schedule for the 2024-2025 cycle:

Denford Fund Applicants:

Application Opening Date: August 1, 2024

Application Deadline: Applications must be received by March 1, 2025.

Announcements: All applicants will be notified of award status by May 19, 2025

 

Apply