Elder Ministry Innovation Grants

Awarded yearly in November

TABCOM member churches looking for funding to jump start a new older adult ministry or to strengthen an existing activity are invited to apply for funds from our TABCOM Elder Ministry Innovation Grants. These grants are designed to offer TABCOM churches an opportunity to initiate and build new older adult ministries, to re-imagine and re-shape existing programs, or to be innovative and experimental. Funds may be applied to a single event like a workshop or a recurring activity.

These grants generate an opportunity to think about the word “If.” “If” there existed some extra funding, how could that be applied to a project or activity that would benefit older adults in your congregation? “If” there were seed funding available, could your older adult ministry make an impact on the greater community?

These grants recognize TABCOM’s commitment to support older adult ministry in congregations. Grants are designed to encourage creative leaders and to inspire bold new ways of doing ministry. The applications are uncomplicated and will be processed in a timely fashion.

Grant Guidelines and Qualifications

Who May Apply:  TABCOM churches in good standing.

Grant Range: Up to $5000 per year.

Timelines:  Projects should be completed within 1 year.

Deadline:  November 1st.  Recipients notified (approved/not approved) by the 30th of that month.

Requirements:

  1. Completion of application by just replying to the questions below:
    1. project budget
    2. time frame
    3. amount requested
    4. description and purpose of program or ministry
    5. target beneficiaries
    6. purpose of grant
  2. Commitment to share info about your program through TABCOM media platforms.
  3. Plans for sustaining the project after the grant funding expires, if any.

 Ideas:

  • Build intercultural bridges
  • Plan intergenerational ministries
  • Organize community nutritional workshops
  • Study a topic like end-of-life decision-making
  • Plan a mission trip or activity
  • Organize retirement workshops
  • Focus on a timely issue such as dismantling structural racism
  • Support caregivers
  • Teach seniors about technology
  • Offer a craft, art, or religious arts course
  • Make church facilities older adult friendly

Please return your information by November 1st:

By email (preferred) to miller@tabcom.org (put “Elder Ministry Grant” in the subject line)

By postal mail to:

The American Baptist Churches of Massachusetts

189 Prescott Street, Groton, MA 01450 – Attn: Elder Ministry Grant