Bank of America

I just started to compile my list of NC based corporations to approach about sponsoring a tribute to a local fallen warrior. If you have not read about our Sponsor A Tribute program, a sponsorship is only $3,500. (That program has been discontinued.)

A few years ago you may remember reading this headline: Bank of America will receive $20 billion in fresh US government aid and $118 billion worth of guarantees against bad assets.

Bank of America has an online form to apply for grants. Here’s what I discovered. The following is from the Bank of America website.

The following organizations are not eligible for funding:

  • Organizations that deny service to a potential client or beneficiary on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, veteran, or disability status
  • Individuals, including those seeking scholarships or fellowship assistance
  • Political, labor, fraternal organizations, or civic clubs
  • Religious organizations (for example, churches and synagogues). Some secular community service programs such as soup kitchens, shelters for the homeless, and job banks are eligible, even when sponsored by religious groups.
  • Individual pre-K-12 schools (public or private)
  • Sports, athletic events, or athletic programs
  • Travel-related events, including student trips or tours
  • Development or production of books, films, videos, or television programs
  • Memorial campaigns

I was shocked. Here’s a company who gladly took billions of tax payer dollars and they post a list like this! Based on their restrictions, a grant submission would be futile. What are these people thinking?