Above / Naper Lights in Jaycees Park and along Water Street every holiday season is among the ways the Rotary Club of Naperville Sunrises showcases its community focus and fundraising. (PN File Photo)
The Rotary Club of Naperville Sunrise currently seeks requests for funding to benefit programs and services that support the youth and families as well as teens and young adults in the Naperville community. The Club is accepting grant applications for consideration as it selects funding recipients for FY 2025-26.
Sunrise Rotary holds one or more major fundraising events throughout the year, including the annual St. Patty’s Day 5K and Rotary Ride. What’s more, additional funds and ancillary fundraisers may be available through one or more of the club’s Four Avenues of Service committees: Community, International, Vocational and Youth Services.
Sunrise Rotary Grants do not fund general operating or capital requests. Repeat applications must demonstrate innovation or growth over previous requests. An application form is online at www.napervillesunrise.com. Complete applications must be received by 5PM Fri., Oct. 24 for consideration. Complete instructions appear on the website.
“Our club is dedicated to providing support to local organizations that help young people survive and thrive to become the kind of young adults who will lead our community in the future,” noted Community Service Chair Deb Newman via email. “We want to support programs that make a difference in the lives of youth and families. Naperville Sunrise Rotary is dedicated to the idea that our future depends on our consciously nurturing the potential of future leaders and their families today.”
Funding requests are reviewed according to the following criteria:
- The potential of the organization or project to be funded to make a contribution toward improving the quality of life of youth, teens and /or young adults which is in alignment with the Rotary Club’s mission and avenues of service.
- The adequacy of plans for measuring success, outcomes and benefits of the funded organization or program to those served.
- The demonstrated stability of the requesting organization through consistent and effective management, strong board engagement, a broad base of community and volunteer support and financial responsibility.
- The ability of the requesting organization to support Rotary Club of Naperville Sunrise events through promotion/marketing and day-of event volunteer support.
All selected beneficiaries will be required to report back to the Club on the results of the funding. Grants will be announced by mid-November 2025 with funds dispersed between January and May 2026. Recipients of funds raised from the 2026 Rotary Ride will receive funds by September 30, 2026.
The Rotary Club of Naperville Sunrise meets at 7AM most Fridays for breakfast at Naperville Country Club. Guests and prospective members are welcome to join leaders, exchange ideas and take part in action to enrich our community. Find more information at www.napervillesunrise.org.
