Criteria of LEAD sponsored Nonprofits
Whenever possible we intend to select charities certified by the Charity Review Council or similar accreditation service. If certification has not been obtained, each charitable organization will be assessed based on, among other things, each of the following characteristics.
- Organizations must be exempt from federal income taxation as organizations described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
- Organizations must possess and provide an annual report or audited (when required) financial statements setting forth amount of financial reserves, operating surplus/deficit, etc.
- Organizations must demonstrate a positive track record of attaining its charitable goals/objectives and possess a long term strategic vision.
- Organizations must show a history of volunteer management experience and develop a strategic plan for providing LEAD supporters with meaningful and organized involvement as volunteers, expert advisors or providers of pro-bono work, or board members.
- Organizations must operate in the State of Minnesota and address issues currently afflicting our community.
What we do not fund
- Individuals
- Government Agencies
- Scholarships
- Publications
- Political Activity
- Organizations operating exclusively outside the State of Minnesota
- Religious Organizations or Activity
- Lobbying prohibited by the Internal Revenue Code for 501(c)(3) nonprofits
- Funds may not be used for cash reserve funds, mortgages, other debt retirement, endowments, capital projects
- Federated giving programs
Process: Once LEAD selects a sponsored organization – the fun begins! We take most of the event logistics on while you work on dazzling our event goers. Learn more about our Process.
Apply for sponsorship: Ready to get started? Our application is quick and easy. 