FAQs
FAQs |
| Why was the 2nd Chance Fund founded? |
| Many in Silicon Valley were touched by the death of Gerry Nicklas, a friend to all. Despite his position, Gerry had a profound effect on people around him, and could often be seen helping the hard-working waiter with an extra $20 tip, introducing colleagues, or circulating the resume of a technology manager whose job had just gone overseas. This seemed to be his real mission in life, a mission which we later found left a gap upon his passing. Upon celebrating his life, a group decided that the best way to honor him would be to continue this tradition in a formal manner that would scale beyond Gerry’s personal mission. That meeting turned into the 2nd Chance Fund. |
| How difficult is it to apply for a grant? |
| We’ve tried to make it very easy. Just fill-out a short form on the web or print the form out and fax it in. We’ll let you know that we’ve received it and when to expect an answer. |
| What are my chances for success in receiving a grant? |
| It’s hard to say, as we take every request on a case-by-case basis. Remember that we give priority consideration to adults who will use the funds to develop a self-sustaining existence, whether that is through job training or starting a new business. We are in the first year of operations, so until the fund size builds we will have an easier time approving small grants of $250 or less. We know this won’t solve all everyone’s problems, but for some people a small grant is all that’s needed to buy clean clothes for a job interview, pay the city and state fees for a new business, or help pay for textbooks in a pinch. |
| Is my donation tax-deductable? |
| We were very careful in the founding process and are treated as a 501(c)(3) charity, pending a five-year review. We thank Wilson Sonsini Goodrich and Rosati, one of Silicon Valley’s premier law firms, which provided pro bono assistance for our corporate documents. Furthermore, we have a strict process of documenting all meetings and processes and encourage public oversight. We are very confident that your donation will be treated as tax-deductable, but as with all financial matters you should consult with your accountant and/or tax attorney for specific advice. |
| How do I know that my donation will be used in a manner consistent with my desires? |
| The board of directors appoints a special committee to review all cases. No one individual on the board can make a decision on the foundation’s grants. If you have a strong desire that your funds should be used for education or job training, for example, please let us know. We will use that information in our planning. |
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Very true! Makes a cahnge to see someone spell it out like that.