This guide for social service organizations provides basic information concerning proposal writing and grant application procedures which could be useful to anyone beginning fund raising efforts. It is organized in three sections. Section 1 covers preparation for proposal writing and components and format of a proposal. Section 2 outlines a plan of action for locating and contacting foundations. A bibliography of publications related to foundation grants and a list of Foundation Center information locations are provided. Section 3 presents background information and identification of important terms and procedures, an analysis of the "Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Programs," and a discussion of strategy for obtaining federal funds. A bibliography on federal grants is included. The following items are appended: (1) a general bibliography, (2) a glossary of terms, (3) a catalogue of federal domestic assistance programs, (4) federal department regional office locations, and (5) office of human development services organizational charts. (Author/RH)