Expert: Finance Guy - 9/2/2009

Question
Not sure I have the correct area of expertise?
We are hoping to open a  free community service and counseling center in our county. There is absolutely nothing here.  The drug and alcohol rate is very high in teens and adults.  The recidivism rate for first time offenders of all types is also very high.  We are already successfully doing the free counseling work out of our home but the need is greater than our ability to keep up.  We are hoping to find grants that will help with recreation space, office space, operating costs, etc.
My question: We need help.  Hopefully there is someone that can offer suggestions for grants to help us get started and continue to provide counseling services and expand into other services for our county.

Thanks a bunch,
Mel and Guyna


Answer
First, let me say that I appreciate you willingness to get involved and
do something positive for your community.

I know little about grants and how to go about receiving them.

My first suggestion would be to contact your county and state government to inquire of them. Then contact your politicians at the city, state, county levels.
Next, contact the local church and medical communities to seek their advice and help.
Contact local media outlets to publicize what you are doing.

 It will be critical to you to network with any and all constituencies
for whom your work will be of interest.

Good luck.

Ron