Call for WedgeShare Applications - 2006

The Wedge is soliciting grant applications from organizations that work for sustainable development through environmental, natural health, natural food or cooperative related activities. If you work for or know of any organizations that fit one or more of these criteria, we encourage you to let them know of the availability of this year's WedgeShare grants.

What is WedgeShare? WedgeShare is a charitable giving program created by the Wedge Co-op Board of Directors in 1997. It is based on Cooperative Principle #7: Concern for Community, which states: "While focusing on member needs, cooperatives work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies accepted by their members."

Each year, the Wedge makes grants to select organizations working for a sustainable future. In 2005, Wedge member-owners selected eight organizations: Cornucopia Institute, Youth Farm and Market Project, Foundation for Minneapolis Parks, White Earth Land Recovery Project, Sister's Camelot, Land Stewardship Project, Women's Cancer Resource Center and HourCar.

Organizations that wish to be candidates for 2006 WedgeShare grants can pick up a copy of this year's WedgeShare guidelines at the Customer Service Desk, or review the guidelines posted on our web site at www.wedge.coop/about/about-wedgeshare.html. All information necessary to apply is included. All applications must be received by 5:00 p.m. Friday, July 14, 2006.

There will be a total of $50,000 in grants awarded with a maximum of $10,000 for any one organization. All inquiries should be directed via email to wedge@wedge.coop. Wedge staff do not have information except as noted at the Customer Service Desk.

The WedgeShare Committee will review all applications to determine how closely they match the required criteria. Wedge Member-Owners will then vote in the fall election to select the recipients of this year's WedgeShare grants.

A Special Opportunity - The WedgeShare Committee would like help reviewing and screening the applicants. If you have experience in this area, send your qualifications to wedge@wedge.coop by June 23rd.

-Fred Grieco, WedgeShare Committee of the Board of Directors