Frequently Asked Questions

 

Why does this non-profit organization exist?

• To maintain sufficient funds to address immediate needs of The Club’s staff.

• To ensure due diligence in the grant awarding process.

• To offer a fee-free method for supporting staff, in contrast to platforms with additional charges (e.g., GoFundMe).

• To provide records of tax-deductible contributions for donors.

 

 What is the relationship between Seven Canyons Cares, Inc., and The Club?

Seven Canyons Cares, Inc. (SCC) operates independently. It was established and is managed by members of The Club. The Club’s owners support SCC and contribute financially.

 

Who manages Seven Canyons Cares, Inc.?

SCC was founded and organized by The Club’s members. The Board includes six Club members and one Club owner.

 

Who can apply for grants from Seven Canyons Cares, Inc.?

Any recipient of a monthly paycheck from The Club (Seven Canyons or the Villas) may apply for a grant for themselves or an immediate family member. 

 

How many people would be eligible?

About 100 individuals and families.

 

Will all funds raised be used solely to benefit The Club’s staff?

SCC anticipates and desires that all funds raised will be used for Club staff benefit.  If surplus funds are available in upcoming years, SCC may make donations to local charities through the Arizona Community Foundation (ACF Sedona) or directly to 501(c)(3) organizations such as Low-Income Student Aid (LISA). If this occurs, SCC will publicly acknowledge The Club and its members. 

 

What circumstances qualify for a grant?

SCC considers all requests, but prioritizes the following categories:

• Medical emergencies or needs

• Academic scholarships, trade school, or skills training

• Emergency housing expenses, such as rent or critical repairs

 

Are grants restricted to emergencies or one-time needs, or can they support ongoing challenges?

Grants are primarily awarded for immediate or one-time needs or opportunities. Ongoing assistance may be considered, especially when academic requirements are met for continued scholarship support.

 

Who determines grant recipients?

Grant recommendations are made by a panel, most of whom are not affiliated with the Club. The panel consists of the CEO of a large, local, non-profit organization, a Vice President of the Arizona Community Foundation, and an SCC Board member. Having a majority of non-Club members on the panel is intentional to provide objectivity.

 

Is there a minimum or maximum grant amount?

There are no specific minimum or maximum grant amounts. Awards are based on need and available SCC funds. Academic scholarships are generally granted for one academic period and may be renewed if criteria are met.

 

What is the process for assessing and awarding grants?

After submission, the SCC Grants Panel verifies employment information, acknowledges receipt and requests clarification as needed. The Panel reviews the application and submits a recommendation to the SCC Board. Upon approval, funds are issued from the local bank account. If necessary, money can be transferred from the Arizona Community Foundation investment account to the local account before distribution.

 

What criteria are used during the grant review process?

Primary considerations include applicant need, potential impact of the grant, and SCC fund availability. Additional factors may include tenure with The Club and employment status (full or part-time).

 

Where are contributions held and how are funds distributed?

Contributions go directly to Seven Canyons Cares, Inc. Most funds are held in an investment account at the Arizona Community Foundation. Grants are issued from a local bank account.

 

How can donations be made, and are they tax-deductible?

Donations are accepted via personal check, major credit card, Google Pay or Apple Pay. Contributions are tax-deductible.

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Can donor advisory funds be used to donate?

Donor advisory funds can be used via the account’s gifting tools.

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What percentage of funds will be used for grants vs. administration and other costs?

It is estimated that over 95% of contributions will be used for charitable purposes.  Other costs incurred are for website fees, banking and investment charges, printed materials, etc.  No SCC Board member receives any financial benefit.

 

When will SCC start to review and award grants?

SCC expects to begin to accept applications and grant awards in the Spring of 2026.