Friends of the Bantam Jeep Association will again award money to Butler County nonprofit organizations and is currently seeking applications for the upcoming round of funding.

Now in its fourth year, the program has awarded more than $75,000. The deadline to apply for organizations seeking gifts is Sept. 30.

“The association’s board of directors feels very strongly about giving back to our community,” said Todd Wagner, the association’s president. “It’s been amazing to see all of the great things local nonprofits have been doing in Butler County over the last few years. They work extremely hard to make a difference.”

Nonprofit organizations interested in applying must be listed as a 501c3 and can do so online at www.bantamjeepfestival.com/financial-gift-application.

Applicants must explain in 500 words or less how they benefit the community and how potential funds would be used. They are also required to provide proof of nonprofit 501c3 status.

Grantees will be expected to provide updates throughout the progress and completion of the project, including photos demonstrating how the gifts impacted their organization.

“Gifts will be distributed based on need and how the gift benefits the community,” Wagner said. In 2018, gifts ranged from $500 to $2,200, according to Wagner. The association will award one $2,500 gift on behalf of Omix-ADA, a top festival sponsor that raised funds selling merchandise at the 2019 festival. The Bantam Jeep Heritage Festival is held each June in Butler.

Friends of Bantam Jeep Association is a nonprofit organization providing opportunities for Jeep owners and enthusiasts worldwide to learn, share and celebrate. The group educates the public about the Bantam Jeep’s historical roots in Western Pennsylvania and Butler.