Past recipients include the Hawaii, Tacoma and Middle Atlantic Chapters, Halls Road Garden Society in Halifax NS, Meerkerk Rhododendron Gardens, Milner Gardens and Woodland, Descanso Gardens, Humboldt Botanical Gardens and Tyler Arboretum.  The ARS welcomes applications from committees, groups; chapters etc. within or affiliated with the American Rhododendron Society.

Guidelines for 2011 Application

The purpose of the American Rhododendron Society is the encouragement of the culture of rhododendrons, including azaleas, and the increase in understanding of and interest in all aspects of these plants.  In support of this mission the Society has established a grant program utilizing funds from its endowment.  Activities to be supported may include the development of programs, projects or publications that educate the general public in the growing and culture of rhododendrons.  Amount of grants will generally not exceed $3,000.

Proposals are accepted up to the deadline of February 15, 2011, and must be submitted to the Endowment Fund Committee at the address below.  The applicant must notify the appropriate District Director of the application and request a 'letter of assessment' to accompany the application.  The appropriate District Director is the one whose geographic responsibility includes the location where grant will be utilized.  The application and letter of assessment will be reviewed by the Endowment Fund Committee.  The Society's Board will act on the committee recommendations at its spring meeting.  Each successful applicant will be supplied 'Condition of Acceptance' letter and upon its completion and return to the Society, funds will be sent to the applicant.  Unsuccessful applicants will also be notified after the Board meeting.

Proposals should request funding for a single calendar year or less and only one proposal per applicant will be considered.  A complete proposal must include:

1. Background and history of the applicant group and the role it provides in the encouragement and understanding of rhododendrons and azaleas.  Newsletters and other publications that describe the applicant are welcome.
2. Description of the project and its objective.
3. Statement of how the project fits the interest of the American Rhododendron Society.  How does it educate?  How many people will be affected?
4. Budget for the project, a timetable for its completion, and a statement of whether partial funding would or would not be useful.
5. Listing of the group's current sources of support and income.
6. List of all sources, from which funds are currently being sought for the proposed project, including any support already confirmed.
7. Letter of assessment from the appropriate District Director.