The Foraker Group

Earlier this year, Foraker and the funding partners of the Pre-Development program placed a hold on accepting new projects. We used that time to fulfill a major commitment to complete deferred maintenance that was critical for every domestic violence shelter in Alaska. During this time, too, the funding partners looked at options for moving forward with new construction projects during this time of economic challenge.

The good news is that after a close analysis Foraker and the funders have determined that Pre-D still fills a gap in services to the nonprofit sector. We also determined that we were ready for a slight adjustment to the way we operate the program. As a result, we have made two changes in the program structure.

First, the Denali Commission, a founding funder of the program, will still have access to Pre-D, but is changing its program focus to climate change. We thank them for their wonderful commitment to Foraker and the program, and we look forward to working with them on future projects. Second, nonprofits, small municipalities, and tribes can still apply to the Rasmuson Foundation, Mat-Su Health Foundation, or Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority and, if accepted, have the cost of Pre-D services covered by that funder. In addition, it is now possible for organizations to apply directly to Foraker for Pre-D without going through a funder. The difference is that the organization will pay for these services rather than having the costs covered by the funder. Foraker and the core funders agree that this option provides another way for some organizations to access services that are not necessarily aligned to the specific priorities of a funder. Projects will be managed and treated as all others in our portfolio.

The Pre-Development Program will continue to provide project management, design, and cost estimating services for the planning phase of capital projects. Project management can also be extended through the design and construction phases with the cost coming out of the project budget.  In addition, several classes are now available through Foraker on the planning, design, and construction of capital projects. Check our calendar for the next time these classes are offered.

As in the past, the unique value of the Pre-D approach is grounded in Foraker’s sustainability model. We are committed to helping organizations develop projects that are the right size to meet a community need, will be affordable to operate over the long term, and have realistic expectations for funding.

Special thanks to Rasmuson Foundation, Mat-Su Health Foundation, and the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority for their continued commitment to sustainable capital projects in Alaska that strengthen Alaska communities.For more information on the program or how to apply, click here, or contact Chris Kowalczewski at ckowalczewski@forakergroup.org or call 907 747-0590.