Charitable organizations in the communities of Freeborn County now can apply for grants from the Freeborn County Communities Foundation. The application process for the 2013 Foundation grant program is now open.

Grants will be awarded to qualified nonprofit entities that promote the social, cultural, health, educational, environmental or civic aspects of Freeborn County. A board of 12 members determines the grants, said chairman Paul Sparks, a former Albert Lea city manager.

All applications must be in by June 14. The foundation has set aside $150,000 for grants this year, Sparks said.

To find out how to apply for your grant, choose one of the following:

Call 377-0449.

Write to P.O. Box 485, Albert Lea, MN 56007

Email jillyjpete@gmail.com or ptsparks@charter.net.

The Freeborn County Communities Foundation is affiliated with Minnesota Philanthropy Partners.