Requesting funding from Rotary now involves a number of options both through the local club and through Rotary International, but both entail extensive checks and balances.

In general, the Rotary Club of Fairhope establishes a giving budget for the fiscal year that may include not only locally raised funds but also matching funds from District 6880 or Rotary International that are subject to grant applications.

Inquiries from outside entities should be made in writing at least 18 months before the project or need and sent by U.S. mail to the Executive Secretary, Rotary Club of Fairhope, P.O. Box 741, Fairhope, AL 36533-00741.

Inquiries from Rotary members inside the Rotary Club of Fairhope should be discussed with the current club president or president-elect.

In either case, please note that each year we receive many, many more outstanding ideas and requests than any club president could possibly fund in any given Rotary year. Each administration must make tough choices, and we frequently have options to participate in matching grants that must be planned a year in advance but that effectively multiply our philanthropic ability. In addition, each Rotary club that participates in these matching grants must comply with detailed policies and procedures through a “Memorandum of Understanding” and documentation requirements that assure compliance with audits and generally accepted accounting principles for nonprofit entities.