In addition to Carleton’s annual gift to the City of Northfield, each year, the College identifies a modest budget, which it distributes in support of local community initiatives. Northfield is fortunate to benefit from a vibrant and active set of local nonprofit organizations, which contribute significantly to the array of support and opportunities available to our staff, faculty, and students, as well as the broader community in the region. Throughout each year, Carleton makes smaller-scale donations in support of these local organizations and projects.
Donation and Sponsorship Guidelines
Scope and Process
The College’s spending on community support is centralized. Requests for donations and sponsorships are directed to the VP and Chief of Staff, who administers the Community Sponsorship funds, identifying opportunities that are aligned with Carleton’s mission and support the College’s goal to retain key partnerships within the Northfield community and the surrounding area.
Approximately 3-5 initiatives or sponsorships are chosen each term to receive modest College support. Examples of common donation and sponsorship initiatives include:
- Community fundraising events for local nonprofits (e.g., dinners, auctions, concerts, walks, runs, golf outings, etc.)
- Support for community-wide gatherings (e.g., cultural heritage celebrations)
- Local school and youth support (e.g., fundraisers, grants to support youth leadership initiatives)
Types of Donations
- Monetary donations/sponsorships
- Dining and catering donations
- Complimentary or discounted use of Carleton facilities
- Bookstore merchandise donations/Logo items/door prizes
Ideally, organizations receiving support are those that provide opportunities that enhance the education of Carleton students, either directly or indirectly. Priority is given to initiatives and organizations in which Carleton students, faculty, and staff are engaged or that have a significant impact on the local community. Support traditionally focuses on, but is not limited to:
- Arts and culture
- Community outreach, support, and networking
- Education
- Economic development
- Environmental stewardship
- Health and wellness
- Inclusion, Equity, and Community
- Public safety
- Recreation
- Social needs/humanitarian support
Exclusions
Generally, the College does not sponsor or make gifts to:
- Individuals
- Business ventures
- Non-governmental organizations without IRS 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status
- Organizations that limit membership or services based on race, religion, color, creed, sex, sexual orientation, age, or national origin
- Requests for loans or debt retirements
- Reimbursement for projects that have already taken place or have been completed
- Labor/fraternal groups
- Political organizations
- Projects or organizations with no connection to Northfield or the surrounding area, or organizations that might in any way pose a conflict with the mission, goals, or programs of Carleton College
- High School athletic programs are also excluded from sponsorships in accordance with NCAA guidelines.
To Request a Donation or Sponsorship
To request a donation or sponsorship, please complete and submit the Community Organization Donation and Sponsorship Request Form. If you choose not to use this form, please ensure that your request is in writing (paper or e-mail) and addresses the questions outlined on the form. Requests will be reviewed and processed within 30 days of receipt. Please allow adequate time for review before the event or project is scheduled to occur. Approved sponsorships will be required to use the Carleton College logo and follow the College’s brand guidelines.
Monetary donations will be issued in the form of a check, unless arrangements have been made for electronic transfers.
Submit requests electronically to Elise Eslinger, VP & Chief of Staff (eeslinger@carleton.edu)
Carleton College President’s Office
Community Sponsorship Request
One N College Street
Northfield, MN 55057
507-222-4305