Best Grants for Grassroots Organizations in Alaska

The Gary Paul Piantanida Scholarship, established by Paul and Edna Piantanida in memory of their son Gary, offers financial support to high school seniors, undergraduates, and returning students in San Luis Obispo County. This scholarship honors students who exemplify strong work ethic, dependability, and integrity, reflecting the values cherished by the Piantanidas. With a commitment to fostering educational opportunities, the Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County encourages applicants to pursue their dreams and contribute positively to their communities.

The NIA Research and Entrepreneurial Development Immersion (REDI) program aims to enhance entrepreneurial education for graduate students and early-career scientists in aging and Alzheimer's research. This initiative prepares trainees for diverse career paths beyond traditional research, focusing on vital skills such as scientific communication, intellectual property, and market needs assessment. Through innovation-focused applications, the REDI program seeks to increase the number of Ph.D.-trained scientists ready for various career opportunities in translational sciences and entrepreneurship.

About Us

The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County is a resource for local charitable giving. Created by and for the people of San Luis Obispo County, The Community Foundation is an enduring source of charitable funds to meet the changing needs and interests of the region. We envision San Luis Obispo County as an inclusive haven where everyone, regardless of background, feels free to fully participate. In collaboration with our community partners and donors, we seek to foster a safe, respectful environment with ample opportunity for all to reach their potential and contribute to the success of our community. We invite you to join us in celebrating diversity, making sure all of our neighbors feel seen, and free from dehumanizing rhetoric and violence, as we shape a future where all residents can flourish. 

2025-2026 Scholarship Applications

Big dreams start here! With support from generous individuals, families, and businesses, the Community Foundation offers scholarships that help San Luis Obispo County students reach new heights in their education and careers.

Garris Family Scholarship

The Garris Family Scholarship was established to support deserving students from public high schools or home-schooled programs in San Luis Obispo County in achieving post-secondary education. 

The Dorsi Blastervold Family Scholarship, offered by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, supports graduating high school seniors and graduate students from the Lucia Mar Unified School District with a minimum GPA of 2.9. This scholarship aims to help students achieve their educational goals and foster a diverse and inclusive community. Applications for the 2025-2026 academic year are now open, encouraging students to reach new heights in their education and careers.

The National Institutes on Deafness and other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) is inviting applications for a Coordinating Center for the National Human Ear Resource Network. This initiative aims to enhance research on auditory and vestibular disorders by providing essential resources, facilitating collaboration among laboratories, and promoting the use of human ear tissues in studies. The Center will play a pivotal role in coordinating activities, sharing updates with the scientific community, and supporting various research efforts across the nation.

Ethan J. Hazelwood Heart of Gold Memorial Scholarship

The Ethan J. Hazelwood Heart of Gold Memorial Scholarship was established in 2025 by family and friends of Ethan as a lasting tribute to his life and giving spirit.

Those who knew Ethan remember him as a kind, creative, and giving person. He was always helping others and once gave the boots on his feet to a fellow student who had none.

Open to individuals in Whitley and Noble County, the scholarship is for high school seniors as well as non-traditional students, who wish to pursue additional education in the field of agriculture or diesel mechanics.

The Burt W. and Virginia Polin ELKS Bureau Scholarship, offered by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, supports high school seniors, undergraduates, and returning students in their educational pursuits. This scholarship honors the legacy of the Polins and the values of the Elks Club, promoting charity, justice, and community service. With the foundation's commitment to inclusivity and support, applicants are encouraged to apply for this opportunity to help achieve their academic and career goals.

The Bernhard H. Singsen Scholarship, offered by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, supports young men from local high schools in pursuing a full-time liberal arts education. This scholarship aims to foster careers in education, civil or social service, and medicine. Open to high school seniors, undergraduates, and returning students, it embodies the foundation's commitment to empowering youth and enhancing community engagement in San Luis Obispo County.

The Fostering Education Scholarship Fund, established by Village Connection and Innovative Fitness, provides scholarships of $2,000-$3,000 to eligible students who have aged out of Georgia's foster care system. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal residents, high school seniors or recent graduates, and have a minimum GPA of 2.5. This initiative aims to empower these students with the financial support they need to pursue higher education, fostering a brighter future for the community.

The Handweavers Guild of America (HGA) offers scholarships to students in accredited fiber arts programs in the U.S. and Canada. These scholarships, awarded based on artistic and technical excellence rather than financial need, support education in fiber arts, textile research, and conservation. Annually, funds of $4,000 or more are allocated for tuition. Applicants can apply under categories of artistic merit or scholarly research in the textile industry, with only one scholarship awarded per individual per year.

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Layton Family Foundation Scholarship

Selection based upon (in order of priority):

• Academic ability and an additional essay on a designated topic, and recommendations.

Awards

• One $1,200 scholarship

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Schmiesing Homeschool Scholarship

Selection based, in order of priority:

• Demonstrated church participation, employment history, recommendations, academic ability, and financial need.

Awards

• One $1,000 scholarship

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Shelby County Youth Soccer Scholarship

Selection based upon (in order of priority): 

• Soccer involvement as a player, referee, and/or coach, demonstrated passion for soccer, a recommendation letter from a soccer coach or soccer mentor is REQUIRED, and an additional essay of no less than 100 words and no more than 200 words on a designated topic.

Awards

• Two $1,000 scholarships – One to a male applicant and one to a female applicant.

The John and Olive Cornellisson Scholarship Fund, managed by the Greater Salina Community Foundation, supports students graduating from USD 239 or 240 high schools pursuing higher education in agriculture or vocational training. Open to high school seniors, current college students, and non-traditional students, the fund emphasizes financial need over GPA. Previous recipients can apply for renewal, ensuring continued support for those striving to advance their education.

The Jewell County Community Foundation's Fine Arts Future Development program supports high school seniors in the Solomon Valley area, including Mitchell, Cloud, and Jewell Counties, who are pursuing majors in Instrumental Music or Art. This initiative, backed by the Greater Salina Community Foundation, aims to foster creativity and artistic talent among youth, helping them to achieve their educational aspirations through scholarships and community support.

Angell Family Scholarship

The Angell Family Scholarship is for graduating high school seniors that attended Linton-Stockton, White River Valley, Dugger Union, or Sullivan High School. This scholarship is intended for students pursuing a one- or two-year vocational or occupational degree at Vincennes University or Ivy Tech which will lead directly to employment once completed. (Students seeking four-year degree paths should view other scholarship options offered by the Foundation.) The Angell Family Scholarship Fund was established in 1998 to provide scholarships for graduating high school seniors that reside in the Angell family (former) business marketing area in Greene and Sullivan counties.

Heartland Community Foundation: Paul and Terrii Bowman Scholarship

Amount

$1,000 minimum; Multiple scholarships may be awarded.

Geographic Limitations:

High school seniors qualified for graduation from a high school in Rooks County, Kansas.

Renewals

• Recipients are eligible for a one-year automatic renewal by meeting the following criteria:
  • Enrolled in a vocational field at a post-secondary institution.
  • In good academic standing.

The Alaska Community Foundation

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives.

Scholarships at ACF

Each year, more than 60 scholarships are available to Alaska students—and it all starts with one simple application. With one login and one application, you’ll be considered for every scholarship you may be eligible for. Whether you’re taking your first step toward college, training for a career, or continuing your education, these scholarships are here to help carry you forward, backed by donors who believe in Alaska’s students and the futures they’re building. 

Gary Martin Swim Scholarship Fund

This is a scholarship established in memory of Gary Eugene Martin, and is open to Alaska students entering or enrolled in colleges or trade schools who have been involved in competitive swimming at the high school level in Alaska. 

The Gary Martin Swim Scholarship Fund was established with The Alaska Community Foundation in 2015. Gary Eugene Martin was a longtime resident of Soldotna, Alaska who lifted others up with his positivity and encouraging nature. His list of volunteer activities is long and reflects how much he cared about those he shared a community with. Gary was known to his family as someone who loved animals and spoiled his grandchildren. He showed his passion for helping youth through his involvement in competitive swimming. For years, he served as an official coach and mentor to many young swimmers.

His legacy carries on today through the awarding of the Gary Martin Swim Scholarship. 

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

William B. and Bonnie Z. Swonger Nursing Scholarship

A Shelby County resident who is a graduate of any high school within Shelby County and is pursuing a Registered Nursing degree. 

Selection based upon:

• Financial need and academic ability.

Awards

• Four $1,250 scholarships available

About Us

Leadership. Collaboration. Impact.

The Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley helps philanthropists support the causes closest to their heart while connecting local residents to the resources they need for a better quality of life.

Our Mission

To serve as a leader and advocate for strategic philanthropy, partnering with donors to anchor a permanent and growing endowment and making investments in the Mahoning Valley that improve the quality of life for all residents.

Scholarship Opportunities

Your Community, Your Support System

Our community members support hundreds of local students every year through various scholarships facilitated by the Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley.

Awarded to Trumbull County residents pursuing a health or medical-related degree or certification – including, but not limited to, those in nursing, behavioral health and public health – from an accredited institution.

American College Of Sports Medicine Foundation Inc

ACSM is the largest sports medicine and exercise science organization in the world, with nearly 50,000 international, national and regional members and certified fitness professionals.

Our Mission: To educate and empower professionals to advance the science and practice of health and human performance.

GSSI Pathways in Sports Science Award | Graduate Student Research & Mentorship Award

GSSI celebrates the passion, resilience, and academic excellence of first-generation college students pursuing graduate degrees in exercise physiology, sports science, kinesiology, and/or sports nutrition. Designed to empower emerging leaders in the field, the award recognizes individuals who are breaking new ground, not only in their families but in the science of human performance.

In addition to research funding, to help promote professional development, award winners will receive one year of 1:1 mentorship from a GSSI scientist. Award winners will also receive complementary registration to ACSM’s 2027 Annual Meeting in Indianapolis, IN.

ACSM requires award winners to:   

• Submit official transcripts if selected as an award winner, 
• Attend the 2027 ACSM Annual Meeting in Indianapolis, IN. 
• Present funded research at a future ACSM Annual Meeting, and   
• Send ACSM a copy of any publications or presentations related to the funded research. 

About Us

Leadership. Collaboration. Impact.

The Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley helps philanthropists support the causes closest to their heart while connecting local residents to the resources they need for a better quality of life.

Our Mission

To serve as a leader and advocate for strategic philanthropy, partnering with donors to anchor a permanent and growing endowment and making investments in the Mahoning Valley that improve the quality of life for all residents.

Scholarship Opportunities

Your Community, Your Support System

Our community members support hundreds of local students every year through various scholarships facilitated by the Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley.

• MyPath- Goldberg Scholarship Fund for MVCAP
  • Awarded to Trumbull County or Mahoning County students participating in MyPath programming or advising, with priority given to students who are or have been in foster care. 

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Solomon Valley Community Foundation

Solomon Valley Community Foundation's mission is to be a catalyst for positive change; engaging partners and inspiring local philanthropy. We leverage resources to overcome obstacles, create lasting legacies, and contribute to the strenth of Mitchell County.

Fine Arts Future Development Scholarship

The Fine Arts Future Development Scholarship supports two different areas of study:

• Higher education for graduating seniors
• Summer music camp for junior high or high school students

Fine Arts Future Development Higher Education Scholarship

Graduation high school seniors in the Solomon Valley area, including Mitchell, Cloud, and Jewell Counties, that are pursuing a major in Instrumental Music or Art.

Renewals: Scholarship recipients may reapply as part of the total applicant pool. ​

Dr. Jeffrey Hanson Memorial Scholarship

To support those pursuing careers in medicine, particularly primary care. 

Number and Size of Awards

One award of $2,750; paid in one lump sum in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters.  

Allowed Use of Award

Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with higher education.

Community Foundation of the North State

The Community Foundation builds trust through relationship, integrity, and by providing safe places for donors to give their resources.

We are a nonprofit, public charity serving the people of Shasta, Siskiyou and Tehama counties, with a mission to impact the region through the power of giving.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of the North State manages many scholarship funds that are awarded to graduating high school seniors as well as students already in an undergraduate program. Some scholarships were started by families or individuals; others by businesses or organizations. All scholarships share one important focus: helping young people reach their educational goals.

Dr. Donald and Ann Gleason Memorial Scholarship

Provides scholarships for qualified Shasta County students with financial needs seeking a college education in the medical field.

Dr. and Mrs. Gleason had no heirs but still had a strong desire to help students with a financial need who were seeking a degree in the medical field. The Dr. Donald and Ann Gleason Memorial Scholarship will assist those pursuing an education in mental health, psychiatry, or pre-med studies.

Jacqueline Hall Minet Travel Award for Cross-Cultural Understanding

To provide financial assistance to a Brighton High School student or a Rochester City School District high school student so that he or she can participate in a travel experience that offers significant opportunities for involvement in a foreign-language culture.

Number and Size of Awards

Number of recipients and award amounts vary; maximum $2,000.

Allowed Use of Award

Awards may be used for expenses associated with travel abroad programs.