WINGS (Women in Northfield Giving Support) invites Northfield area nonprofit organizations to apply for a 2012 WINGS grant. These grants are given in support of projects benefiting women and children in the Northfield area. Applications must be submitted electronically by March 16, 2012.

A workshop will be held on from noon to 1 p.m., Thursday, March 1, at the Northfield Public Library meeting room for anyone seeking more information about the grant process. 

In 2011, WINGS gave more than $68,000 to Northfield nonprofits working to help women and children in the area. For 2012, WINGS has chosen the following areas of focus for its grants: housing stability, food stability, economic stability, safe environments for victims of domestic violence, early learning, out-of-school programs, adult education, healthcare and healthy behaviors. WINGS grants must be used in the year they are awarded. Every grant candidate is considered anew in each grant cycle.

WINGS prefers to fund organizations that build capacity by leveraging their resources and seeks to fund grant proposals that enhance an organization’s abilities to carry out its mission. WINGS favors grants that offer a proactive approach to solving a community problem and address systemic change. WINGS seeks grants that are innovative, though it continues to fund operating expenses and existing programs. WINGS prefers to fund projects/programs where the grant has a significant impact on the organization or the program. 

To apply for a grant, go to the WINGS website at www.wings-mn.org.  If you have any questions call Pat Smith at 645-6544 or e-mail her at grants@wings-mn.org. Applicants for WINGS grants must be nonprofit organizations or have a sponsoring fiscal agent.  WINGS supports financial need-based endeavors that encourage women and children of all cultures, nationalities, races, sexual orientation and abilities to reach their full potential.