Application Criteria

The M.E.L. Community Foundation partners with nonprofits in the U.S. that support learning outcomes for English Learners in public schools. Although we are Massachusetts based, the M.E.L. Community Foundation welcomes any 501(c)(3) charitable applicant provided the organization meets the following criteria.

Organizational Capacity and Leadership

Successful applicants will show evidence that they have a solid balance sheet and program plans that give us confidence their organization has the capacity to manage the grant. Also, successful applicants will have a board of directors and staff leadership that are collaborative and knowledgeable about the school community and English learners.

Measurable and Sustainable Outcomes

Results matter. We place a high priority on organizations and partners that clearly articulate goals, present a clear plan for achieving results, and track outcomes and impacts with specific metrics on the people and communities served.

Funding Limits

The M.E.L Community Foundation is currently considering grant requests that range between $10, 000 to $12,000, for June 2025.