Ray of Hope’s mission is to provide individuals financial assistance for community programs to enhance self awareness and self esteem.  Whether it be little league, violin lessons, or returning to school for a GED, Ray of Hope will fund community activities that enable an individual to live a positive, healthy lifestyle while learning to BELIEVE in themselves.

Download a Ray of Hope Application for Funding

Applicant Requirements:

Applicant must be an individual, not a group or organization.
Applicant can apply themselves or can be nominated by another.
Applicant must live within 60 miles of 54880 or community program must be located within 60 miles of 54880.
Applicant must fall within the federal guidelines of Low to Moderate Income families.
 

Ray of Hope has six different categories for funding:

Community Group or Club
Includes programming through Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, 4-H, Boys and Girls Clubs of America, etc. and/or funding for uniforms or related expenses for participation in such activities.
Sport Activity
Includes sport registration fees, equipment, training, etc.
Camp Participation
Includes all types of camps for community groups, religion, sports, musical, etc.
Arts and Humanities
Includes any language training, music classes, science, culture, etc.
GED or Training Classes
Includes classes for GED and others such as computer training, self defense, etc.
Counseling or Self Help
Includes any type of self-betterment from ill relationships, child neglect or abuse, treatment for drugs and/or alcohol, etc.


FAQs:

How do I apply?
You can download an application online or have one mailed out to you directly.  You can also request an application through the "Contact Us" Page.

I’m only 12 years old. Can I apply?
Yes, you can apply.  Ray of Hope’s application process is open to any individual regardless of age, sex, religion, and/or ethnicity.

What if I want to apply for an art class in Cloquet?
Ray of Hope funds any program within our community, which is figured into a 60 mile radius from Superior, WI.  Cloquet is located within this distance and funding would fall under the Arts and Humanities fund.

My program doesn’t actually start until December, when should I apply?
You can apply at any time.  However, it is recommended you apply early to ensure your application can be reviewed by the board before your program begins. 

Is there a maximum dollar amount for funding?
As each program varies, funding will also vary.  There is no set minimum or maximum amount of funds awarded. 

Why do I need to include the program’s flyer?
Ray of Hope will need to verify the program, program fees, program dates as well as contact information.  If awarded funding, Ray of Hope will pay the program directly.

What if I drop out of the program?
If you leave the program for anything other than emergency reasons you will be ineligible to apply for future scholarships.  Ray of Hope will also try to recuperate any lost
funds through the program.

How do I know if I am awarded funding?
The board or Program Director will notify you if you are awarded funding, either through the mail, email, or over the phone.

What if I didn’t receive funding this time, can I reapply?
Yes.  Ray of Hope strongly encourages you to reapply.  

Where can I find the Low to Moderate Income (LMI) guidelines?
There are many different sources available online that give the federal LMI guidelines. A table is viewable at http://www.hrrc-ch.org/LMI.HTM.