The Trust considers applications from organizations whose work is consistent with its program goals and outcomes. Eligible organizations are:

• Nonprofit agencies with evidence of tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code or those using a 501(c)(3) fiscal agent.
• Located within and/or primarily serving residents of Cook County, except for regional, statewide or national projects or research that may benefit a substantial portion of Cook County residents.
• Non-discriminatory in the hiring of staff or in providing services on the basis of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin or disability.

The Trust will not make competitive grants for:

• Scholarships
• Individuals
• Sectarian purposes (programs that promote or require a religious doctrine)
• Support of single-disease oriented research, treatment or care
• The sole purpose of writing, publishing, producing or distributing audio, visual or printed material
• The sole purpose of conducting conferences, festivals, exhibitions or meetings
• Reducing operating deficits or liquidating existing debt

Exceptions to the above limitations are made only for those donor gifts and endowments that are given with explicit instructions and/or restrictions. Such donor gifts are not open to requests for support.
 
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