APPLICATION NARRATIVE GUIDELINES

This form can be filled out online but will not save between sessions.

The total narrative should be no more than seven (7) pages. Questions not specifically listed as [GOS Only] or [SPS Only] must be answered by all applicants in the order given. Keep in mind that the peer panelists reading this application may not be familiar with your organization/site. 

1. Organizational Overview: Briefly describe the organization: mission, budget, facilities, membership, location, and background. If the institution holds collections related to Ocean County or New Jersey History, please provide an overview of the types and subject matters covered. *

2A. Programs and Services [GOS Only]: Describe the organization’s recent programs, services, events, special projects, and major accomplishments. How do your programs promote public awareness, appreciation, and understanding of Ocean County or New Jersey history? What standards does your organization use to measure, evaluate, and increase excellence in its programs?  *

2B. Special Project [SPS Only]: Describe the project for which you are requesting funding in detail – including timeline for completion. Be sure to explain why your organization selected this project and how it advances your mission. How does your project promote public awareness, appreciation, and understanding of Ocean County or New Jersey history? What standards does your organization use to measure and evaluate excellence in its programs?  *

3. Personnel: Identify the individuals, along with a brief biography detailing their skills and qualifications, who will be responsible for execution of the project or programs. If consultants/historians/contractors are hired, how are they selected and what qualifications are sought?  *

4. Public Benefit: Identify your audience, who do your programs and projects benefit? Include demographics. What is your anticipated participation in the coming year and how does this compare to past years?  *

5. Inclusiveness: How do you plan to broaden or diversify your audience beyond your traditional attendees? How does your organization market its programs to the general public as well as new or underserved audiences (e.g. individuals with disabilities, racially & culturally diverse communities, senior citizens, and economically disadvantaged, institutionalized populations)?  *

NOTE: All applicants will need to attach their Facility and Program Accessibility Survey and applicants who have applied for more than two years will need to attach a copy of the organization’s board-approved ADA Compliance Plan that covers the materials found in the Accessibility Survey.

6. Commitment to Growth: How do the planned programs and projects achieve goals set out in the organization’s mission and long-range plan? Examples: audience development, cultural diversification, facility enhancement, professional development, social media, and fundraising? How will this funding help your organization to increase institutional capacity and build new partnerships and collaborations? Describe how your organization is working to include diverse members in your board and membership (age, ethnicity, gender etc.)  *

NOTE: organizations(except government, higher education or not primarily history based) applying for funding must submit an up-to-date organizational long-range plan as part of their required materials and should detail how this grant helps accomplish goals in the plan.