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Frequently Asked Questions

What is BONDS?

BONDS is an acronym for Building Our Neighborhoods for Development and Success. We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing neighborhood assistance in the form of grants, a resource center, leadership and technical training, and networking opportunities for neighborhood and homeowner associations. Community organizations affiliated with a neighborhood association may also utilize BONDS’ services.

When can I apply for a grant from BONDS?

Applications for grants are available in mid June, and must be returned by the first Friday in August by 5 pm. Grants are awarded in September at the annual Neighborhood Conference. The maximum award amount is $5,500. The average grant award amount is $1,600.

Can anyone apply for a grant from BONDS?

Any neighborhood association or homeowners association located in the city or county of Montgomery may apply. An affiliated community association may also be eligible.

Do I have to be a 501(c)(3) to get a grant from BONDS?

No, BONDS does not require its grantees to have this designation and we do not exclude those neighborhood associations that currently possess one.

What are the requirements?

Neighborhood or homeowner associations must provide documentation that their association is already established. Documentation of bylaws, evidence of ongoing meetings, and election of officers (President, Vice President, and Secretary/Treasurer at a minimum) must be provided. They must provide documentation that a request for funds from BONDS was agreed upon at an association meeting. Each grant requires a 10 % match or in-kind services from the association. A signed pre-commitment from a minimum of eight neighborhood members agreeing to assist in meeting all requirements for funding must also be provided. Prior to funds being distributed, mandatory training sessions must be completed. Associations may receive grants more than once.

How can the funds be used?

Associations may use funds in a variety of ways including but limited to youth programs, health and wellness programs, senior programs, and beautification and enhancement projects. The project or program must benefit the entire neighborhood.

Is this a grant that I have to pay back?

No, this is not a loan but a grant to your neighborhood association. The grant must be used for the projects that are included in the grant application, and progress reports must be completed in order to receive the entire grant. You will be required to attend some training courses throughout the year, and your association must spend the current grant monies before applying for another grant.

Is your grant allocation a one-time award?

No, neighborhood associations may apply each year. However, this is a competitive process so there is no guarantee your association will receive a grant each year. Our goal is to help establish neighborhood associations and teach them how to apply for bigger grants at the state and national level.

Where does BONDS get its funding from?

BONDS relies on funding from the City of Montgomery, the Montgomery County Commission, local businesses, and donations from foundations and individuals.

Is your funding area limited to the City of Montgomery?

Since the majority of our funds are received from the city, we are obligated to support city neighborhoods first. However, there have been occasions in which we have funded community associations outside the city of Montgomery but within Montgomery County on a limited case-by-case basis.

Does BONDS visit neighborhoods?

BONDS staff and advisory committee members appreciates the opportunity to attend neighborhood association meetings and activities. BONDS staff are also available to assist in the formation of associations.

What publications do you have that will help/assist my neighborhood association?

BONDS has just produced our first “How to Build and Maintain a Neighborhood Association” handbook. This handbook is a guide to help newly formed associations develop internal structure and focus. In addition, the handbook will provide more established associations with the tools to take the efforts to the next level. There is a $5 fee to cover the cost of printing.

 

Latest News

Download 2009-2010 Grant Application Packet pdf
July 5 , 2009

Neighborhood Survey weblink
online, please complete!
July 5, 2009

News Flash pdf
Week of June 14, 2009

News Flash pdf
Week of May 31, 2009

News Flash pdf
Week of May 17, 2009

News Flash pdf
Week of May 3, 2009

News Flash pdf
Week of April 19, 2009

News Flash pdf
Week of April 5, 2009

2009 Winter-Spring Newsletter Online pdf
April 15, 2009

BONDS introduces Neighborhood Leadership Training weblink
April 1, 2009

BONDS News Archive

2009 Advisory Committee

Carlisle Harrison, Chair
Brandon Brazil
Derrick Cunningham
Tony Garrett
Louise Grant
Vera Jordan
Carole King
Joan Loeb
Martha Mote
Mary Pons
Andy G. Potter
Marie Reed
Maggie Stringer
Jarome Thomas
Regina Walker
Tess Ware

BONDS Ambassadors
Larry Grewelle
Mary Ann Myles
Sandra Nickel
Beverly Ross