The Hershey Park Foundation, while not a distinct entity, is often confused with various Hershey-related philanthropic organizations. These include The Hershey Foundation and the Jacob & Terese Hershey Foundation, which provide grants and support community initiatives. Additionally, the Hershey Company offers scholarships through partnerships with educational institutions. This article explores the grant processes, scholarship opportunities, and community impact of these Hershey-affiliated organizations.
What are the Grant Opportunities Offered by Hershey-Related Foundations?
The Hershey Foundation
The Hershey Foundation offers various grant opportunities for nonprofit organizations and public institutions. Here’s a breakdown of their grant process:
- Types of Grants:
- Program grants
- Operating grants
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Capital grants
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Application Process:
- Submit a Letter of Inquiry (LOI) through the online portal
- Deadlines: January 15 or July 15
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If approved, an invitation for a full proposal is sent
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Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be a nonprofit organization or public institution
- Align with specific funding priorities
- Fall within designated geographic focus areas
Jacob & Terese Hershey Foundation
This foundation focuses primarily on Texas, particularly the greater Houston and central Texas areas. Their grant process includes:
- Grant Types:
- Operating grants
- Project grants
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Capital grants
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Grant Terms:
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Up to two years for operating and project grants
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Application Steps:
- Submit an LOI through the online portal
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If approved, receive an invitation for a full proposal (approximately four weeks after the LOI deadline)
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Eligibility Requirements:
- Must be a tax-exempt organization (typically 501(c)3 public charities or public institutions)
- Primary focus on Texas-based initiatives
How Does the Hershey Company Scholarship Program Work?
While not directly related to a Hershey Park Foundation, the Hershey Company offers scholarships through the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF). Here are the key details:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Scholarships | 34 scholars selected annually |
| Application Timeline | Opens June 17, 2024; Closes July 12, 2024 |
| Award Amount | Up to $7,500 per academic year |
| Eligibility | – Full-time juniors or seniors at TMCF member-schools – Majoring in food science or related fields – 3.0 GPA or higher – Demonstrated financial need – U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents |
| Selection Criteria | – Academic standing – Financial need – Video submission on personal experience |
What Community Initiatives are Supported by Hershey Foundations?
The Hershey Foundation
The Hershey Foundation supports various projects aligned with its funding priorities. However, specific details on community initiatives are not publicly available.
Jacob & Terese Hershey Foundation
This foundation focuses on several community-oriented projects, including:
- Community parks
- Environmental education programs
- Animal welfare initiatives
Their primary geographic focus is Texas, with an emphasis on greater Houston and central Texas areas.
How Do Hershey Foundations Measure Their Impact?
While specific impact metrics are not detailed for either foundation, the Jacob & Terese Hershey Foundation emphasizes certain values in their grantmaking:
- Prioritization of team member well-being
- Fair pay and benefits for grantee organizations’ staff
The Hershey Company Scholarship program, while not a foundation, aims to help students in good academic standing overcome financial challenges to continue their education.
What Educational Programs are Offered by Hershey Foundations?
While there’s no specific information on educational programs offered directly by Hershey foundations, the Hershey Company Scholarship through TMCF serves as an educational initiative:
- Program Objectives:
- Provide financial assistance to students at TMCF member-schools
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Help students overcome financial challenges to stay in college
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Participant Demographics:
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College juniors and seniors
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Program Duration:
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One academic year
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Measurable Outcomes:
- Assist students in good academic standing facing financial difficulties
- Enable continuation of education for selected scholars
How Can Organizations Apply for Hershey Foundation Grants?
For organizations interested in applying for grants from Hershey-related foundations, here are the general steps:
- The Hershey Foundation:
- Review funding priorities and geographic focus
- Submit an LOI through the online portal by January 15 or July 15
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If invited, prepare and submit a full proposal
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Jacob & Terese Hershey Foundation:
- Ensure alignment with Texas-focused initiatives
- Submit an LOI through the online portal
- Prepare a full proposal if invited (approximately four weeks after LOI deadline)
It’s crucial for applicants to carefully review each foundation’s specific guidelines, as they may change over time.