In 1996, when Prairie Meadows first had funding to give to charitable organizations, a committee of civic, educational and religious community leaders was chosen to help recommend the most effective ways to distribute the money.

Since that time, the Community Betterment Grant Advisory Committee has honed the process of distributing needed funding to nonprofit organizations in and around Polk County.

Each member of the Grant Advisory Committee reviews all applications received. Grant applications are rated on demonstration of need, leverage of other funds secured and applied for, community support, community impact, population served, proposed evaluation of results, and strength of the organization.

The Grant Advisory Committee presents their funding recommendations to the Prairie Meadows Board of Directors at their December meeting. After approval from the Board of Directors, all applicants are notified of funding decisions. Community Betterment Grant Awards are made annually during the first quarter.