The Barbara McDowell Foundation makes grants for social justice litigation. Grants are only made for a specific social justice legal case, including the filing of an appeal. Grant funds are to be used for case-related expenses including attorney time, filing fees, and expert witness expenses. Grant funds may not be used for travel expenses associated with the case. Grants are not made for criminal cases, claim(s) by an individual(s), or an amicus brief.

The Foundation accepts letters of intent from June 1 through June 15 each year. Selected applicants will be invited to submit a full application by August 1. We do not accept applications outside of that time frame. Selected grantees receive their grant at the end of September to be used for the period during the following October 1 to September 30.

The Foundation makes grants only to 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations. We do not make grants to individuals, corporations, or non-501(c)3 nonprofit organizations.

Yes, the Foundation accepts applications from nonprofit organizations across the country. Since our inception we have made 75 grants to 52 organizations in 22 states and the District of Columbia, totaling $1.725 million in grants.

The Foundation is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and therefore, donations made to the Foundation are generally considered tax deductible. However, we advise donors to check with their tax advisor to understand the impact of a charitable donation to the Foundation on their personal financial situation.