WedgeShare

The WedgeShare Program: In 1997, the Wedge Board of Directors created WedgeShare, a charitable giving program based on Cooperative principle #7, Concern for Community: "While focusing on member needs, cooperatives work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies accepted by their members." Presently the Wedge makes WedgeShare grants in amounts up to but not exceeding $10,000.00 to select organizations that are working to create a sustainable future. Types of programs and activities that WedgeShare has funded in the past include:

• Capital campaigns programs;
• Project development and training;
• Special events; and/or
• Start-up costs.

The Process: The WedgeShare Committee was established by the Board to oversee and direct this program. It annually screens proposals and selects a proposed slate of grantee organizations for Board approval. Once approved, the slate is presented to the entire co-op membership for a vote to determine the year's grant recipients.

The 2012 WedgeShare grant cycle ended March 8, 2012. Member-owners will vote on a selected slate of organizations during the October 2012 Annual Election.Please look for 2013 WedgeShare application deadlines in the February/March 2013 Newsletter.

Eligibility: Applying organizations should be non-partisan, non-sectarian, and engaged in activities related to:

• Environmental quality/protection/beautification;
• Natural health and wellness;
• Natural food and sustainable agriculture;
• Community involvement/capacity building; and/or
• Cooperative-related activities.

Judging Criteria: Grants and grant amounts are awarded using the following four criteria:

1. Alignment with the purpose of the WedgeShare grant;
2. Effectiveness of the organization;
3. Potential impact of WedgeShare grant on organization;
4. Enthusiasm of Wedge member-owners for the mission (as expressed through voting results)