ATMC has two grant programs available: Smart Connections and Community Connections.

Descriptions and Applications are available below.

Purpose

ATMC is dedicated to providing communications services that add value to the lives of our customers and the communities we serve. To ensure that our corporate contributions also add value within our communities, we have established a Grant Program. This program came about as a result of a restructuring of ATMC's overall corporate giving plan. The majority of the cooperative's corporate contribution and sponsorship dollars will now be given directly, through our Grant Program, to the numerous causes and worthwhile organizations that make a positive difference in the lives of Brunswick County residents.

History

Our cooperative has always been a good corporate citizen. Over the years, we have generously given hundreds of thousands of dollars in financial contributions and volunteer time to a wide scope of community groups and organizations. Our employees have been active as well, helping to uphold the cooperative spirit. The decision was made to establish a grant program so that we could directly address specific needs in our community and achieve the greatest benefit for our residents.

Guidelines/Criteria

Grants must be for programs which directly benefit residents in Brunswick County. Grant dollars available to a specific program or group range from $250 to $2500. Funds are disbursed for single-use and must be expended within one year of receipt. Grants are open to any charitable or nonprofit organization in Brunswick County or one in another county which offers a program specifically targeted at and benefiting Brunswick County residents. In the case of an outside charity or organization, 100% of the funds must be used for Brunswick County residents. An organization may not apply twice in one 12-month period.

Exclusions

Grant funds will not be available for the following: religious organizations or activities, political organizations or activities, capital campaigns, individuals, beauty pageants, advertising, fraternal organizations, fund-raising events, such as raffles, auctions, walk-a-thons or telethons, payments to individuals for services, endowments and labor organizations. In addition, grants will not be issued to groups or organizations that discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, sex, age, disability or status as a protected veteran.

Selection Process

Grant applications will be reviewed semi-annually by a committee appointed by ATMC. This committee shall consist of ATMC staff and a community representative. The committee will meet one time to review applications and make recommendations for final approval by the Board of Directors. Recipients will be notified by telephone within 30 days of approval and letters will be sent inviting recipients to the Awards Reception. Applicants who are not approved for funding will be notified by mail.

Timeline

The 2008 Grant Program will have a one-time disbursement process for each of its two categories. Timeline for implementation will be as follows:

Inquiries regarding the ATMC Grant Program should be directed to:
ATMC Public Relations Department
P.O. Box 3198
Shallotte, NC 28459
FAX (910) 754-3768
TELEPHONE (910) 755-1755
Email: dyarbrough@atmc.coop