Bridgestone Grant
Tyler Price
After taking some time and getting used to the grant writing process, I can honestly say that I am feeling more comfortable with it. At first, I was completely intimidated by it. I just saw a bunch of words on a page. But, now, after taking some time and working in a group setting, I have grown very comfortable with it.
There was one day that was particularly helpful – the day we had the lady come in (I cannot remember her name). She, aside from having an incredibly welcoming smile and vibrant personality, was thoroughly helpful. For instance, when she made the comment about how the language different organizations use changes, I felt that I could personally relate to the grant writing process mroe. She made it seem not so foreign and scary. I particularly get tripped up when thinking about writing a document in a format or style that I am not used to. I always want to be perfect - every word crafted in such a way that it reflects the organization or field I am writing for and about. However, after this day, the inimidation that I was initially feeling completely left me. I honestly feel so confident in the Grant Writing Process now.
The Bridgestone organization, when deciding what charities to give money to, has a particular focus and draw for youth-oriented programs. This was very important to note when drafting our grant. We gave special attention to pushing the key words "youth" and "educaton" and "future generations" when writing the grant. It was imperitive for us to understand the organization that we were writing for, which we did effectively. We catered our language to literally fit the bill. I believe that we actually got some money for NICE.
In the end, it came together well and I believe we might actually get some money for NICE through our envolvement - which would be absolutely worth it, in my opion! Each one of my group members did their part and carried their own weight. It was relieving to be in a group setting in which the work was evenly dispersed among all of us - not just a few people doing everything. Everyone was professional and everyone got work done! I am proud in our finished product. Here it is: