What We Fund

We provide funding to nonprofit organizations that either have a physical footprint in the Mercy Corridor, which includes the Hill District, Uptown, and West Oakland, or are managing a program that operates with a physical presence in one of these neighborhoods. Programs must be intentionally designed to serve Mercy Corridor residents. One-time events or programs that only serve residents from the area do not qualify. All programs must also align with our funding priorities.

Please note: If your program serves individuals from our Mercy Corridor but does not meet both criteria, we are unable to provide funding.

We can fund:

  • New programs and projects.
  • Ongoing programs and projects.
  • Capacity-building initiatives, including general operating support when organizations have a track record of producing outcomes for residents and the community.
  • Capital projects that advance the strategic priorities of McAuley Ministries.

Preference is given to proposals that:

  • Address a critical community need or opportunity in the Hill District, Uptown, or West Oakland in alignment with our grantmaking priorities.
  • Incorporate evidence-based practices that address root causes and propose systemic change.
  • Involve collaboration and cooperation with other organizations or agencies.
  • Include clear implementation plans with goals, strategies, and timetables.
  • Include measurable outcomes and an effective mechanism for measuring the impact of the program.
  • Exhibit sound and realistic financial plans as well as diverse funding sources.
  • Will not duplicate existing services unless there is a clear need for additional services.

Proposals not funded by McAuley Ministries:

  • Scholarships unrelated to nonprofit capacity building.
  • Travel unrelated to nonprofit capacity building.
  • Acute care/hospital services.
  • Biomedical research.
  • Endowments.
  • Historic preservation.
  • Existing financial obligations or debt liability.
  • Political activities, including political campaigns and lobbying.
  • Programs that are not directly targeted to the Hill District, Uptown, or West Oakland.