Beyond the Classroom
Out of School Time (OST) programming is vital for the well-being and development of children in our region, providing safety, academic support, and social connections while addressing critical community needs. Despite the importance of OST programs, many face significant challenges, including funding gaps, staffing shortages, transportation barriers, and limited access to resources. Addressing these issues is essential to ensure access to equitable opportunities for students and families.
Beyond the Classroom (BTC) features a rolling application process, with regular review and award cycles to ensure timely support. Rapid Response grants allow OST providers to act quickly and effectively, enhancing their ability to serve families and adapt to changing circumstances.
The purpose of Beyond the Classroom grant funding is to alleviate unexpected needs. It is not intended to enhance or expand current programming. Examples may include facility emergencies, such as equipment failure due to age or usage, a sudden increase in demand for services due to a natural disaster, community trauma, or local emergency, or other unanticipated organizational need.
For questions about this application, please contact Damon Bethea: [email protected] or 412.456.6770.
For questions about how to use the online grants management system, please contact Jacob Grande: [email protected] or 412.456.6743.
Who is eligible to receive Beyond the Classroom funding?
Nonprofit organizations must have 501(c)3 status (or a fiscal sponsor) and must have received United Way funding through the 2023 Impact Grant or any Welcome Back Summer/ In Person Summer Programming for Children funding cycle. Organizations must operate and serve participants within Allegheny, Armstrong, Butler, Fayette or Westmoreland County.
My organization received a grant for In Person Summer Programming or Welcome Back Summer, but it was several years ago. Does my organization still qualify for BTC funding?
Yes, if your organization received In Person Summer Programming funding in 2020 or 2021 or Welcome Back Summer funding at any time, your organization qualifies to apply for a BTC grant.
My organization received a Welcome Back Summer grant, but I’d like to apply for funding for an afterschool program that operates year-round. Can my organization still qualify for BTC funding?
Yes, any Out of School Time (OST) program (before or after school or summer program) qualifies for BTC funding.
What kinds of things can be funded through this grant?
Organizations may apply for funding to address emergency unexpected needs, especially those that make it challenging to operate your program. These are some examples of needs that will be considered through this RFP. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list:
- Food or other basic needs.
- Transportation services or vehicle repairs.
- Staff training, professional development or time (related to urgent needs such as response to a local emergency).
- Supplies and materials to ensure continuity of program operations.
- Security or safety needs.
- Equipment or facility repairs. (Additional documentation may be required.)
If my organization applies for funding to purchase equipment or perform facility repairs will we need to provide additional documentation?
Depending on the nature of the request you may be asked to demonstrate that this need is not due to deferral of routine maintenance to equipment or facilities. It is not required that your organization have a procurement policy, but if your organization does have a procurement policy United Way will follow your established guidelines.
Will there be any training courses or workshops to provide applicants with more details?
Yes. United Way will host an informational webinar in early July 2025. The webinar will be recorded. To access the recording, please contact Damon Bethea at [email protected].
How often can an organization apply for funding?
Eligible organizations can apply on a rolling basis between July 7, 2025 and June 30, 2026. However, organizations are only eligible to receive one BTC grant during this time period.
Is there a funding cap for the Beyond the Classroom RFP application?
Yes, the award ceiling for all BTC grants is $10,000.
What is the difference between an Emergency Response grant and a Rapid Response grant?
Rapid Response Grant
- Organization must be located within Allegheny, Armstrong, Butler, Fayette or Westmoreland Counties.
- Funding decisions will be made within a month from application submission.
- United Way Staff and community evaluators will review proposals.
Emergency Grant
- Organization must be located within Allegheny County.
- Program is unable to operate if need isn’t addressed quickly.
- Funding decision will be made within 7 business days.
- Application may be moved to Rapid Response process if a better fit.
- United Way staff will review proposals.
If you think you may need an Emergency Grant, please contact Ana Kay Yaghoubian at [email protected]
Who do I contact if I have further questions about whether my organization qualifies for BTC funding?
Please contact Damon Bethea at [email protected] or Ana Kay Yaghoubian at [email protected] with questions about BTC funding.