The Verizon Foundation, launched July 3, 2000, is the result of a merger
between several telecommunications companies and has created a national
giving program that focuses on applying new technologies to address a range
of community issues. The foundation's priorities are literacy, particularly
"e-literacy" and projects for non-English speakers; digital divide, funding
projects that increase access to technology; women and economic development,
particularly projects focusing on school-to-work, welfare-to-work,
entrepreneurship and training.

The foundation expects to make about 25,000 grants each year and estimates
that it will review 60,000 applications. The foundation has not set an
upper or lower limit for individual grants. Eligible applicants are
501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in the United States. Applications will
be accepted any time until November 30, 2000. Applications will be accepted
again beginning January 1, 2001 and continuing through November 30, 2001.
For more information or to apply, visit the Verizon Foundation website at
www.verizon.com/foundation