Best Grants for Grassroots Organizations in American Samoa

The Wag Wine Operation supports no-kill adoption groups by providing grants ranging from $250 to $1000. These funds assist organizations in purchasing essential supplies, food, and medical care for adoptable pets. Offered by the Petfinder Foundation, this initiative aims to keep homeless animals healthy and facilitate their transition to loving homes. Grants are awarded monthly until funds are depleted, with the program benefiting over 10,000 adoption groups across North America.

The Marine Trades Scholarship, offered by the National Marine Representatives Association (NMRA), supports students pursuing education in marine trades. Since 2008, NMRA has facilitated annual scholarships funded by members and affiliates. This initiative not only encourages academic growth but also fosters professional development through networking events, industry insights, and advocacy support. Applications are accepted each spring, with recipients chosen in the summer, promoting a brighter future for the marine industry.

The Bring Back the Trades Scholarship is dedicated to addressing the skilled trades shortage by providing $1,500 monthly scholarships to students enrolled in post-secondary skilled trades programs across the United States. Founded by a seasoned business owner, the initiative aims to raise awareness and reshape perceptions of trade careers, ensuring that students have the resources to succeed in vital roles that contribute to the nation's future.

The Live Your Dream Awards, sponsored by Soroptimist International of the Americas, empower women by providing vital monetary assistance for their education and training. Each year, over $3 million is awarded to more than 2,300 women who are the primary financial support for their families. This initiative supports those overcoming significant challenges like poverty and domestic violence, ensuring they have the resources to achieve their dreams and live fulfilling lives.

Bettye Davis East High School STEM Scholarship Fund

The East High School STEM Scholarship is established to honor Sandra and Kenji Kusano.

The Bettye Davis East High School STEM Scholarship was established to honor Sandra and Kenji Kusano. Like many others, Sandy and Kenji Kusano followed their dreams to Alaska. Sandy's first job at ARCO turned into a 51-year career in the same building. Kenji started a Japanese restaurant, Yamato Ya, which they owned for 26 years. This scholarship honors their inspiring work ethic and dedication to providing opportunities for others.

Bettye Davis East High School STEM Scholarship supports a graduating high school senior from Bettye Davis East Anchorage High School pursuing a bachelor degree in STEM.

Bring Back the Trades Tool Grant Program 

Across the country, vocational programs are often forced to teach with outdated, broken, or consumer-grade equipment. The Bring Back the Trades Grant Program changes the narrative by putting “Nothing But Heavy Duty” technology into the hands of students. By providing professional tools, we show students that their education—and their future career—is worth the highest standard of equipment.

Thanks to numerous schools and programs letting us know they need help supporting future tradespeople, we have made a commitment to grant $1,500 in tools monthly to a public school or nonprofit. Milwaukee Tool committed to supporting the program through 2026, so the awards in 2026 will be shipped directly to winning organization by Milwaukee Tool!

Objective: To equip public schools and community nonprofits with professional-grade Milwaukee Tool kits, fostering a culture of craftsmanship, safety, and respect for the tools of the trade.

Application Deadline: Rolling. A winner will be chosen each month from applications received over the previous six months. The winner will be notified via phone or email. The winner will receive the tools requested (based on availability and up to $1,500 in retail value). Tools and equipment/supplies will be shipped only to the address on the application. Applicants that have not been chosen as a winner of the grant may reapply after six months. Schools/organizations may win no more than once in a 3-year time period.

Community Foundation of Carroll County

The Community Foundation of Carroll County, Inc. was established in 1994 to ensure financial support for Carroll County not-for-profit organizations. It is governed by a Board of Directors and is a 501c(3) public charity. The Community Foundation of Carroll County is trusted partner for donors and nonprofits. We provide one central place where anyone can create a charitable fund, support what matters most, and leave a legacy of lasting impact.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of Carroll County supports more than 75 scholarships. These scholarships vary in the amounts they award and cover a wide variety of student interests. Qualifiers range from academic achievements, sports played, and community service performed, to 4-H and FFA involvement. While the majority are for graduating Carroll County high school seniors, there are several for students in college or technical school, and even opportunities for students attending private primary school. 

Carroll County Food Services Association Scholarship

The purpose of this Fund is to provide scholarships to seniors graduating from any public high school in Carroll County, Maryland. The Carroll County Food Services Association Scholarship will be awarded one or more students who have successfully completed high school; been accepted at an accredited college, university or culinary arts school; and met the criteria established for this award.

Community Foundation of Carroll County

The Community Foundation of Carroll County, Inc. was established in 1994 to ensure financial support for Carroll County not-for-profit organizations. It is governed by a Board of Directors and is a 501c(3) public charity. The Community Foundation of Carroll County is trusted partner for donors and nonprofits. We provide one central place where anyone can create a charitable fund, support what matters most, and leave a legacy of lasting impact.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of Carroll County supports more than 75 scholarships. These scholarships vary in the amounts they award and cover a wide variety of student interests. Qualifiers range from academic achievements, sports played, and community service performed, to 4-H and FFA involvement. While the majority are for graduating Carroll County high school seniors, there are several for students in college or technical school, and even opportunities for students attending private primary school. 

4-H Ryan MacKenzie Memorial 4-H Scholarship

The purpose of Ryan MacKenzie Memorial 4-H Scholarship is to provide scholarships for high-school graduates in Carroll County, Maryland who participate in the Carroll County 4-H Programs (sheep or horses) and meet the Fund’s criteria.

Kids' Chance of Pennsylvania Scholarship

The mission of Kids’ Chance of Pennsylvania, Inc. (Kids’ Chance of PA) is to provide scholarship grants for college and vocational education to children of Pennsylvania workers who have been killed or seriously injured in a work-related accident resulting in financial need.

The hardships created by the death or serious disability of a parent often include financial ones, making it difficult for deserving young people to pursue their educational dreams. That's where we come in - helping those dreams become a reality!

We are dedicated to supporting the higher education of the children of seriously injured or killed Pennsylvania workers. Since our inception in 1997, we have provided over 1,150 scholarships totaling more than $3.2 million to deserving students! If you are one of these children, we encourage you to take the time to fill out this application. Additionally, if you receive a KCPA scholarship, you may be eligible to receive supplemental grant money through an agreement with the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency/Pathways to Higher Education (PHEAA/PATH) Program

Scholarships are awarded on an annual basis and must be reapplied for each year. 

Arizona Community Foundation

For more than four decades, the Arizona Community Foundation has worked in tandem with generous individuals, families, and organizations to address some of the biggest challenges facing our state.

Scholarships

In partnership with our generous donors, we award millions of dollars annually to help students achieve their educational goals. Through our online system, students complete one application and are matched with available scholarships, based on their eligibility requirements.

The Maria Gomez Dream Scholarship

Sponsored by the MG Dream Foundation, the Maria Gomez Dream Scholarship was established in memory of a friend and daughter who lost her battle with cancer in 2014. Maria cared about her community, giving her time and talents to make the world a better place. Through this scholarship, the MG Dream Foundation honors Maria by supporting college-bound youth in pursuit of higher education. Our vision is to set forth a ripple effect and create a positive generational change in students' lives.

The Allen Butler Minority Law Enforcement Scholarship Temporary Fund offers financial support to young people of color from Duluth pursuing law enforcement training at post-secondary institutions. Established in 1996 by Duluth's African American Men’s Group in honor of Officer Allen Butler, this fund aims to empower eligible candidates with a $1,000 award for one year, promoting diversity and inclusion in law enforcement careers.

Selkirk Pickleball Growth Program

At Selkirk, we are committed to growing the sport of pickleball by making it accessible to everyone. The Selkirk Growth Program enables schools and community programs worldwide to access Selkirk equipment.

Our original goal was to give away 3,000+ paddles a year; we have now given away more than 40,000 paddles since we started in 2019. As part of our Growth Program, we are donating gently-used paddles to:

Schools.

• First responders.
• Senior centers.
• Churches.
• Parks & recreation departments.
• Other community organizations looking to expand their programs.

We will also provide a discount on additional paddles, balls, and nets for schools and charities involved in the program.

The Clayton Jackson McGhie Memorial Scholarship Fund, established in 2005, supports students from the Duluth-Superior area. Applicants are encouraged to submit essays or creative works that reflect their understanding of race relations and community service. The fund, initiated by local residents to honor the memory of three African American men lynched in 1920, awards $3,000 for one year, with school selections occurring in the spring.

Seattle Foundation

Seattle Foundation is an agent of change, igniting powerful, rewarding philanthropy to make Greater Seattle a stronger, more vibrant community for all.

At Seattle Foundation, we believe that community is more than a place. It’s the shared understanding that our joy and well-being are tied to one another. Every day we work with nonprofits, philanthropists, and partners like you to strengthen community by igniting powerful philanthropy and advancing long-term solutions. Because it takes all of us to create a joyful region where every person can thrive.

The Stanley Ann Dunham Scholarship

These $5,000 college scholarships are awarded annually to female-identifying students in the graduating senior class at Mercer Island High School (MIHS), Chief Sealth International High School (CSIHS), and Rainier Beach High School (RBHS). Students should demonstrate commitment to the values and goals embodied in the life and work of Dr. Stanley Ann Dunham, a 1960 Mercer Island High School graduate, anthropologist, and mother of the 44th President of the United States, Barack H. Obama, and Dr. Maya Soetoro-Ng.

The World Trade Center Scholarship in New Jersey provides financial support to dependent children and surviving spouses of residents who lost their lives in the September 11 attacks. Administered by HESAA, this scholarship covers tuition, fees, and other educational costs at eligible institutions. Applicants must be full-time students and maintain satisfactory academic progress. The award amount varies each year based on funding and need, ensuring that assistance is available to those who have lost financial support due to these tragic events.

United Negro College Fund

“A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”®

For more than seven decades, this principle has remained at the heart of UNCF, enabling us to raise more than $5 billion and help more than 500,000 students and counting not just attend college, but thrive, graduate and become leaders.

We do this in three ways: By awarding more than 12,000 students scholarships, worth more than $65 million, each year. By providing financial support to 37 historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). And by serving as the nation’s leading advocate for the importance of minority education and community engagement.

Richard F. Freeman Scholarship Fund

The Richard F. Freeman Scholarship Fund is designed to provide financial assistance for deserving students from Southeast Michigan who are afforded the opportunity to earn a college degree. 

The Ronald and Wendy Smith Clinical Research Grant supports innovative studies in orthopaedic foot and ankle surgery. Funded by the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society, it aims to enhance patient care through research that leads to practical applications. Grants up to $25,000 are available, with potential for renewal, encouraging multidisciplinary approaches and addressing critical clinical issues. Successful projects will be shared at AOFAS meetings and may lead to further funding opportunities.

Seattle Foundation is an agent of change, igniting powerful, rewarding philanthropy to make Greater Seattle a stronger, more vibrant community for all.

At Seattle Foundation, we believe that community is more than a place. It’s the shared understanding that our joy and well-being are tied to one another. Every day we work with nonprofits, philanthropists, and partners like you to strengthen community by igniting powerful philanthropy and advancing long-term solutions. Because it takes all of us to create a joyful region where every person can thrive.

Doug Struthers Memorial Scholarship

Doug Struthers taught at Alexander Graham Bell Elementary in the Lake Washington School District for more than two decades. His hard work, commitment and perseverance made a difference in the school and the community. This scholarship fund was created in his memory to help young people learn skills to serve their communities. Four Lake Washington School District students every year are chosen to receive this $5,000 renewable scholarship.

The Carnegie-Whitney Grant, established by Andrew Carnegie in 1902, supports the creation of bibliographical aids for American libraries. Grants cover the preparation costs of reading lists and indexes, enhancing access to library resources. Eligibility requires projects to stimulate library use and be broadly appealing, with a focus on national distribution. Notably, completed works and projects under contract are ineligible. The fund encourages innovation in library resource development, welcoming applications from individuals and organizations.

Seattle Foundation is an agent of change, igniting powerful, rewarding philanthropy to make Greater Seattle a stronger, more vibrant community for all.

At Seattle Foundation, we believe that community is more than a place. It’s the shared understanding that our joy and well-being are tied to one another. Every day we work with nonprofits, philanthropists, and partners like you to strengthen community by igniting powerful philanthropy and advancing long-term solutions. Because it takes all of us to create a joyful region where every person can thrive.

Anne D. Maloof Scholarship

This is a one-time scholarship for $3,000 to honor and financially assist graduate, professional or undergraduate students in Island, Kitsap, Jefferson, and Thurston counties.

Who We Are

The Community Foundation of Central Illinois will make a sustainable philanthropic impact in our community through visible leadership in connecting people who care with causes that matter.

Gerald C. Bulkeley Scholarship Fund 

The Gerald C. Bulkeley Scholarship Fund was established by his family to honor his legacy of service to the Abingdon community. A graduate of Abingdon High School, Mr. Bulkeley was dedicated to supporting young people through civic and educational leadership.

This scholarship is available for students attending school in District 276 and residing within the boundaries of former District 217. The student will receive the scholarship award each year for four years.

The RWA Perseverance Fund, administered by the Romance Writers of America (RWA), supports members in financial need for their annual national dues. RWA, a nonprofit organization, is dedicated to advancing the interests of romance writers through advocacy and networking. The fund is available to applicants who can demonstrate financial need and commitment to a career in romance writing. Eligibility includes submitting proof of work, while ensuring a respectful and inclusive environment for all members.

The Award for Diversity Course Design, initiated by the Society for Music Theory, aims to enhance diversity, inclusion, and social justice in undergraduate music theory courses. Starting in 2025, two annual awards will recognize outstanding syllabi: one for core theory curricula and another for topical courses. This initiative encourages original contributions that embody inclusive pedagogy, with winning entries showcased on the SMT website to foster evolving best practices in music education.

The Tipgoomoogus Memorial Trust Grant supports organizations dedicated to the care and comfort of small household pets, including dogs, cats, and birds. Founded by Thomas and Ellen Fallon, the trust primarily funds New Jersey-based charities that qualify as 501(c)(3) organizations. Applications are accepted year-round, with a submission deadline of April 30 for annual review. The foundation prefers to assist animal shelters and dog pounds, while excluding funding for salaries or animals raised for commercial or research purposes.

The Community Foundation’s scholarships are for Arkansas students pursuing education at two- or four-year colleges or universities, vocational schools or technical training programs. Each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria. Some scholarships are designated for graduates of a particular high school or those who plan to attend a particular college. Others are based on extracurricular activities or intended college majors.  

The Foundation has a scholarship portal with a quiz to help applicants determine scholarship eligibility. 

“Since 1976, the Community Foundation has partnered with individuals and organizations who want to support our state’s students in their pursuit of higher education,” said Heather Larkin, Community Foundation president and CEO. “These generous people provide the funding and determine the size and eligibility criteria of each scholarship, while we oversee the application and awarding process on their behalf.” 

Lillian McGillicuddy Republican Party of Arkansas Scholarship

For students involved in the Young Republicans organization.

The Traveling Fellowship Program, managed by the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS), offers mid-career members a unique chance to attend the AOFAS Annual Meeting and visit top research institutions. Participants will enhance their skills by observing surgeries, learning new techniques, and sharing their research experiences. The 2025 program runs from September 8-25, featuring visits to esteemed sites, including the University of South Carolina and the Rothman Institute.

Community Foundation for Northeast Florida

The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida connects people who care with causes that matter. Since 1964, we have served the citizens of Duval, St. Johns, Nassau, Baker, Clay, and Putnam counties through a range of charitable and civic activities, while helping individual donors achieve their philanthropic goals. We believe in Giving Back. Forever Forward.

Scholarships

Thanks to generous donors, The Community Foundation offers several scholarships each year that benefit students in Northeast Florida who are seeking post-secondary degrees.

Talen Charles Birt Memorial Scholarship

The Talen Charles Birt Memorial Scholarship will provide financial assistance for students graduating from Andrew Jackson, First Coast, Jean Ribault, or William M. Raines High Schools in Duval County. In selecting the successful candidate, the review committee will consider the students’ demonstrated commitment to academics and leadership, plans to pursue a 2- or 4-year degree and can articulate why they have selected their area of study, and financial need. The one-time scholarship will support tuition and books, up to $2,000.