BINGHAMTON, NY -- The Binghamton University Foundation is now accepting applications for the 2014 Stephen David Ross University and Community Projects Fund grant cycle. Ross, a Binghamton University faculty member, established the fund with the hope of fostering working partnerships between the University and the community.

Over the years, the Ross Fund has supported numerous partnerships including projects to educate students about opportunities in the Greater Binghamton area and developing ways to expand those opportunities and retain students in Binghamton. Most recently the fund helped support the Binghamton Poetry Project and the Half a Loaf Project: Reducing the Burden of Food Insecurity in Vulnerable Communities.

In 2014, the Ross Fund will award approximately $10,000 in grants to non-profit organizations in partnership with University units. Examples of University partners include academic and program units, administrative offices and faculty members. Grant funds are available beginning July 1.

Grants are awarded based on the following priorities:

- Promotion of collaboration and cooperation between University and community groups

- Innovative use of the talents and resources of project partners

- Demonstrated commitment to the use of existing funds or to obtaining matching funds

- Significant, enduring and positive difference in the quality of life in the community

All projects must benefit and enhance the greater Broome County area and contiguous New York counties, and must include residents of Broome County.

The application deadline is Friday, April 4, 2014. Grant applications, full guidelines and further information are available on the Stephen David Ross University and Community Projects Fund website at http://www2.binghamton.edu/giving/ross-fund.

For more information, contact grant administrator Cindy Lupo at (607) 777-6927 or clupo@binghamton.edu.