Give to the Compassion Fund
Learn More About The Compassion Fund
Sometimes a Small Amount of Support Can Make a Big Difference
A job interview is coming up, but someone does not have appropriate clothing.
A student needs materials for a class.
A phone or internet connection is needed to stay connected to work, school, healthcare, or community.
An unexpected expense creates a barrier that traditional services cannot address.
These needs may seem small within a larger service system, but for the person facing them, they can be the difference between moving forward and being stuck.
Community Life created the Compassion Fund to help.
Filling the Gaps Traditional Funding Cannot
Many of the supports people with disabilities receive are funded for a specific purpose and must be used within defined service requirements.
Life is rarely that tidy.
The Compassion Fund gives Community Life a flexible resource to address practical needs that fall outside traditional service funding and may otherwise create a barrier to someone's independence, well being, education, employment, or participation in community life.
The fund is supported through private donations and is reserved for people currently receiving services from Community Life.
What the Compassion Fund May Support
Every situation is different. Depending on available funds and individual circumstances, support may include:
• Employment clothing, shoes, equipment, or other items needed to begin or maintain a job
• Educational materials, supplies, classes, or other learning related needs
• Technology or connectivity that supports employment, education, independence, or community connection
• Household necessities or essential personal items
• Emergency supplies or unexpected needs
• Other practical expenses that may help someone continue moving toward an important goal
The Compassion Fund is intended for needs that are not reasonably available through another funding source.
Thoughtful, Individualized Support
Requests are considered individually.
We look at the person's circumstances, what they are trying to accomplish, whether another resource is available, and how the requested support may make a meaningful difference.
The goal is not simply to purchase an item. It is to understand the barrier and determine whether the Compassion Fund can help remove it.
Because the fund is supported entirely through charitable contributions, assistance is based on available resources.
Requesting Support
People currently supported by Community Life may request assistance from the Compassion Fund with help from their Community Life team, family, or other supporters if needed.
Requests may be approved for up to $200, depending on the need, available funds, and whether another resource is reasonably available.
The online request form asks for:
• What is needed
• Why it is important
• How it will support the person's goals, independence, well being, employment, education, or participation in community life
• Whether other possible funding resources have been explored
• Whether there is a time sensitive need