The Gelvin Foundation is limited by policy to the support of non-profit organizations principally in Oklahoma, with emphasis given to organizations whose programs and services primarily benefit those living within a 30-mile radius of Tulsa or Eufaula. To be eligible for consideration, an organization must have a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) status or its equivalent with the IRS. Grant applications for individuals or political interests will not be considered, and applications for general support, debt reduction or compensation to staff are discouraged.
In considering grant requests, the Foundation generally gives priority to proposals with clearly defined benefits, such as those for basic capital funding purposes, equipment purchases and special program needs. Grants may require matching funds to be raised by the recipient. We generally do not consider multi-year grants.
Grants are made in four primary fields of interest (the allocation of funding within these groups is reviewed by the Board on an annual basis and occasionally adjusted):
We consider the following conditions important when evaluating a proposal:
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- The proposed project is well planned and efficient in its use of funds
- Foundation support would be vital to the project’s success
- The project has a significant or long lasting impact on its beneficiaries
- The project has the ability to be self-supporting after the grant funds have been used
- The organization demonstrates sound fiscal management and the likelihood of meeting its objectives
- The organization works effectively with other entities where applicable to enhance its services and avoid duplication of effort
- The organization is able to provide the Foundation with all requested information and documentation in a timely manner
Education grants are generally not awarded to individual schools or public school systems. Grants to religious organizations and programs are limited to the Foundation’s support of St. John’s Episcopal Church, Tulsa, which the Foundation’s founder, Lyle M. Gelvin, attended and supported during his lifetime.
Since we are able to respond favorably to only a small percentage of the grant requests we receive, not being approved for a grant should in no way be interpreted as disapproval of an organization or lack of appreciation for the value of its programs. Additionally, since the focus of the Foundation may change as new areas of concern develop within the community, previous grant commitments or non-approvals should not be taken as a likely approval or non-approval for subsequent grant decisions.