The Community Challenge Fund (CCF) is designed to help poorer communities in the DR improve their standard of living through the construction of basic community/economic development projects. Projects include but are not limited to water supply systems, electrification, cement floors, improved smokeless wood stoves, health facilities, latrines, schools, libraries, sports courts, agricultural facilities, and economic development projects. CCF provides funding for 8-10 community projects a year with a maximum project grant of $20,000 for exceptional projects. Almost 150 projects have been granted funds since the program was founded in 2004, for a grant investment of over $440,000. In 2022 alone, CCF awarded a total of $70,942 in grants to communities – 22 percent higher than any other year. Eligible projects must include a community contribution of at least 25 percent. This is often achieved in the form of sweat equity and contributing some construction materials. Active involvement by both Peace Corps Volunteers, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and community groups is required and a plan for sustaining the project must be demonstrated.

How the fund works: Peace Corps Volunteers and NGOs work with local community leaders to identify needs and priorities. They then work with the community to plan and organize the project, calling in technical help as needed (for example to test water quality). If found to be feasible, the project is planned, and local funding is committed. Community leaders, with the help of the Peace Corps Volunteer or NGO, prepare an application to the Community Challenge Fund for grants up to $20,000. The application is then submitted to FDR’s CCF Project Committee. The CCF Project Committee reviews and approves projects meeting the program criteria. Once approved, funds are released to Peace Corps Dominican Republic or the NGO and used to purchase building materials or skilled labor. Beneficiaries of the assistance contribute their labor to the construction of the project. Finally, the PCV or NGO assists the community during construction, monitors the project and funds, and provides a final report, including photos if appropriate, on the project.

How you can help: The Community Challenge Fund is a sustainable fund that, through low-risk investments, is able to generate enough funds to approve 3-4 projects a year. But the need is much greater. Donations from individuals and families throughout the U. S., who have learned of the effectiveness of the program, provide annual donations to fil the financial gap. These donations are essential for meeting the goal of providing grants to 10 projects each year.

Your contribution is essential to help us meet that goal. Administrative costs of the program are paid by a special gift made by a donor, so 100% of donor contributions are designated to the Community Challenge Fund go directly to project costs (materials and technical labor), making your gift, large or small, go a long way. If you have questions, you can contact the CCF's Manager, John Epler, at challengefund@fotdr.org

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Community Challenge Fund

Community celebration

`Community Challenge Fund`

`Community celebration`