Common Good Catalyst Fund

Overview

The McKeen Center for the Common Good announces a new pilot program and invites proposals from students for projects that advance the common good, foster collaboration, and strengthen campus–community relationships in Maine.  Applicants may request up to $500. Projects must be completed in Spring 2026, with all funds spent by May 15, 2026. 
 
Key Requirements

• Location: Projects must take place in Maine.
• Focus: Projects should involve a non-profit or government/municipal partner and take place in a local, Maine community.  While community-based projects are the emphasis of this fund, the McKeen Center will also consider campus-based proposals if they are focused on helping students build skills related to serving the common good (e.g., dialogue, organizing, advocacy). 
• Funding Use: Allowable examples include, but are not limited to, transportation, supplies, and honoraria for speakers. Funds cannot be used for stipends for applicants or for direct donations to organizations unrelated to a project/event.

Timeline

• Application opens: February 2026
• Applications will be reviewed biweekly throughout the spring semester.  
• The grant process will close when funds are fully allocated or on April 10, 2026, whichever comes first.
• Funds must be spent by May 15, 2026.
• Fund recipients will submit a short reflection and photo for the program website and meet in person with a McKeen Center staff person to debrief their experience within two weeks of completion of their project.

Goals of Initiative

• Generate new ideas for the common good and ways to connect with and serve the local community
• Build skills towards serving the common good
• Create or strengthen campus-community relationships
• Broaden the reach of the McKeen Center for the Common Good on campus and in the community

Review Criteria

• Alignment with the common good and above stated goals
• Clear community partnership or well-defined common good skill-building
• Feasibility within Spring 2026 timeline and budget
• Inclusivity and accessibility
• Appropriate and justified use of funds

---

FAQ’s

• What are some examples of possible projects?
  • Orientation trip reunion to volunteer with a community partner that was a part of their trip – could be a day trip or an overnight on a weekend. Costs may include transportation, food, and housing.
  • College house members visit a community organization to learn about their work (rather than having them come to speak on campus). Students may volunteer there during the visit or hear from a staff member. Costs may include transportation and honorarium if there is a speaker from the organization.
  • A group of friends volunteers weekly with Hope Acts in Portland. Costs would include the van fee ($30/day) or mileage reimbursement. Learn more about McKeen Center transportation options.
• Can I fund myself for a stipend to work with an organization?
  • No, students may not receive stipends or payments for themselves as part of this funding.
• Can I fund spring break travel for service?
  • The focus of this funding is in Maine, so funding for spring break travel is only allowed if it is within Maine.
• Are there a certain number of hours required for a project?
  • No, there is no minimum number of hours required.
• Can I donate money to an organization with this funding?
  • Payments to organizations can be in return for services or time provided. For example, if a staff member of an organization provides an informational session for students on their work, an honorarium can be offered, and some organizations have a standard fee for hosting groups. 
• Can I use the funding to build community for my campus club/team/floor?
  • Yes, if your project meets the other criteria of this fund.  In other words, funding is not solely for student community building but should also help students build skills for serving the common good and connect and serve the local community too.
• Can I meet with McKeen Center staff to discuss my idea?
  • Yes! We love talking to students about their ideas and the common good and encourage you to reach out about your ideas for the Common Good Catalyst Fund! Email Sarah Seames to find a time to talk.