Praxis Partnership Application Tips
Start early and save your work. Applications are due Wednesday, February 15, 2023, at 5 pm.
We hope that our application provides a space for you to reflect on who you are, what you do, and how you want to develop, grow, strengthen, improve – both as an Executive Director and as an organization. Please remember that you are not applying to Fair Chance for funding, so you do not have to sell us a shiny organization with amazing results. In fact, if you are too perfect, we are going to be asking ourselves if you really need a Partnership.
The four things we are most looking for in your application are clarity, uniqueness, transparency, and partnership.
- Clarity. We are not looking for buzzwords or fancy prose. We are looking for clarity. The more we
understand your organization, programs, and capacity building needs, the better your application. - Unique. Every nonprofit is special in some way. Help us understand why your organization or program is
unique in how you approach your work, who you serve, how you meet an unmet need, or whatever it is
that makes your organization great. - Transparency. We hold what you tell us in confidence and do not share it outside of our selection team,
which is made up of members from Fair Chance’s Leadership Team and Program staff. You don’t have to
hide all your pain points. In fact, we need you to share those with us to truly understand your capacity
building needs. - Partnership. Remember that we work with you during a partnership, rather than achieving things for you (e.g., we help you develop a fundraising plan; we do not fundraise for you). In writing about your capacity building needs in the application, emphasize what you want to learn or develop in order to achieve your goals.
Application FAQ
How much time do I need to fill out the application?
Can I save the application as a draft or do I need to complete it all at once?
On each page on the top right corner, select “save my progress and resume later” to ensure any work is saved. This enables you to revisit your partially completed application later rather than needing to complete it all in one go.
My organization does not keep track of how many children, youth, and families in our program(s) are experiencing poverty. Can we still apply?
Yes, however, alignment with our mission is important. Therefore, make sure that your application speaks to:
- how your programs are specifically addressing the needs and transforming the lives of children, youth, and families experiencing poverty in Washington, DC.
- your intention to start collecting this information within the next year.
How much detail are you looking for in the Capacity Building Needs section?
My organization is currently finalizing or creating this year’s organizational budget. How should I answer the questions in the Finances section?
My organization does not have one or more of the requested attachments. Are they required? Do the attachments that I have need to be formatted in a specific way?
I have more questions. Is there someone I can speak with directly?
Yes! Please sign up for a Partnership Consultation, and you can meet by zoom or phone with a member of our DC Program Team.