The United States Lifesaving Association works to reduce the incidence of death and injury in the aquatic environment through public education, national lifeguard standards, training programs, promotion of high levels of lifeguard readiness and other means. To support this mission, the USLA is offering member chapters and certified agencies an opportunity to apply for a grant to help support and promote ongoing water safety education and outreach. The USLA Public Education Committee would like to make sure that when applicants consider projects they are aware of our water safety tips and the USLA/NOAA Rip Current Tool Kit.

Grants are awarded twice a year. Spring applications must be received by March 20. Fall applications must be received by October 1. Awards will be announced at the Spring & Fall Board of Directors meetings.

Objective:
To award deserving and qualified applicants funding to assist with developing, promoting and offering ongoing education, outreach and/or training directed toward beach and aquatic safety.

Grant Eligibility Requirements:
Education or training program must have one or more topics that the selection committee deems appropriate for ongoing education on beach and aquatic safety. Note: Only one application per agency per year will be accepted.

Grant Criteria:

• Only USLA agencies/chapters/regions are eligible to apply
• Grants will not be awarded to pay salaries or honorariums for labor
• Priority will be given to projects that create a sustainable model/product
• Preference given to projects that create something that can be shared among the greater lifesaving and drowning prevention community
• Material used for public education should either be existing USLA material or, if new material is created, should be vetted by the Public Education Committee (or Certification if more appropriate) to ensure it aligns with the USLA material and principles
• Priority will be given to projects that have a tangible benefit to USLA (National or Regional bodies)

Financial Need:

• Applicants must show a need for financial assistance and identify how funds will be used for the education or training program.
• Applicants shall include a budget of how the grant will be spent in addition to the application.
• Available grant money for each education or training will be awarded funds from $100-$1,000.

Partnership Responsibilities: Add the USLA logo to all marketing materials.

Application Review:
The USLA Public Education Committee will review applications to determine whether the proposal meets the eligibility criteria. The Committee may request additional information, and/or provide the applicant the opportunity to clarify their application and advise the Committee of any additional factors that may be relevant.

Notification:
The applicant(s) will be notified by email immediately after the national meeting whether their proposal has been accepted or denied. Those approved will be notified as to the amount of money available for their grant.

The Public Education Committee reserves the right to use other criteria in its selection process if deemed necessary.

The USLA does not guarantee any funds to be granted. Awards may be given for less money than requested based on the availability of funds and at the sole discretion of the USLA.

Questions:
Please direct any questions, including materials vetting requests, to the Public Education Committee Chair: publiceducation@usla.org.