Best Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Grants in American Samoa

The Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs Research Network aims to enhance the lives of children and youth with special health care needs (CYSHCN) and their families. By establishing a robust research infrastructure, the program will generate evidence-based solutions to foster well-being and community engagement. It focuses on identifying effective interventions and measures that can be integrated into essential services and supports, ultimately helping CYSHCN thrive throughout their lives.

Burger Family Foundatio

Our Mission

Inspired by our daughter Penelope and the powerful symbolism of the extra 21st chromosome, our foundation is dedicated to creating opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. Through direct financial assistance, therapy, community, and the healing power of ranch life, we’re building spaces that foster hope, purpose, and belonging.

Pens Pearls

Named after Penelope, Pens Pearls is the financial support arm of our foundation, providing direct assistance to families navigating the unique joys and challenges of raising a child with a disability. From therapy grants to life-changing opportunities, we’re here to lighten the load and ensure every child has the resources they need to thrive.

Through Pens Pearls, eligible families can apply for funding to help cover essential needs, services, or opportunities that make a meaningful impact in their lives. The Burger Family Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization, and this program is one of the ways we work to create lasting change—one story at a time.

Qualifications for Pens Pearls Grant Program, are deemed by the strict bylaws of the Burger Family Foundation. Funds are paid directly to provider. 

About Colin Farrell FoundationThe Colin Farrell Foundation is committed to transforming the lives of individuals and families living with intellectual disability through education, awareness, advocacy, and innovative programs. Inspired by his two sons, he is excited and deeply humbled by the hope that the Colin Farrell Foundation can help those who the larger systems of governance have neglected.

CFF Innovation GrantsWe’re looking for bold, scalable solutions focused on one or more of these priority areas:

• Affordable co-housing models for individuals and families
• Employer-partnered day programs and inclusive job opportunities
• Tools and technologies that enhance accessibility at home and in community spaces
• Cross-sector collaborations between public, private, and nonprofit organizations

American Samoa students facing developmental, emotional, or physical disabilities, or those who have volunteered with such peers, can access funding through the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington for higher education. This scholarship awards US $1,000 - US $1,400 and prioritizes intellectual and developmental disabilities, though current eligibility is tied to specific school districts in Washington and Texas.

Students with intellectual disabilities connected to Rockford Public Schools can receive scholarship support for post-secondary education through the Colleen Maher Inspirational Scholarship. Grants from Community Foundation of Northern Illinois help young adults pursuing programs that build employment skills and independent living, which may benefit intellectual and developmental disability advocates in American Samoa seeking comparable models.

Young adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities pursuing post-secondary education or life-skills training may be eligible for support that advances employment and independent living. Focused on intellectual and developmental disabilities, the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois offers the Ann W. Dooley Advancement Scholarship, which may benefit similar disability-focused education and life-skills programs in American Samoa.

Research institutions and healthcare organizations conducting intellectual and developmental disability comparative effectiveness research in the U.S., including American Samoa, may be eligible for this topical funding. With a mission to advance patient-centered outcomes research, Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute provides support for high-quality CER projects focused on people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Caregivers of individuals with Angelman syndrome seeking support for disability-related needs in American Samoa can apply for grants up to US $5,000. With a mission to support those affected by Angelman syndrome, Angelman Syndrome Foundation provides funding for equipment, educational assistance, and essential clinic travel when no other public or private funds are available.

Nonprofit organizations supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities can seek funding to enhance success, well-being, and access to opportunities, including in American Samoa. Focused on special needs beyond classroom instruction, the David and Jacquie Clark Family Fund prefers Ohio nonprofits but welcomes applications from eligible U.S. organizations dedicated to helping this community learn and thrive.

Nonprofit organizations supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities can seek funding for programs improving lives, primarily in the Pacific Northwest but also elsewhere in the U.S. Grants from Jtmf Foundation help groups serving children, older adults, veterans, and individuals with disabilities; American Samoa organizations working in these areas may be eligible to connect and share their work.

U.S. human and social service nonprofits, especially those serving children and people with intellectual or developmental disabilities, can seek program funding that directly benefits people in need. Nailba Charitable Foundation supports small, well-run charities nationwide, and American Samoa organizations may be eligible if they have backing from a NAILBA member agency or corporate partner.

The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) will announce funding for patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research (CER) studies focusing on rare diseases. This initiative encourages collaboration and aims to fill critical research gaps affecting approximately 30 million Americans with rare diseases. Applications can request up to $12 million over five years, including coverage for patient care costs. This funding opportunity is set to open on August 12, 2025, with a focus on addressing pressing patient-centered CER questions.

Medical students interested in neurodevelopmental disabilities or child neurology can receive US $3,500 to conduct summer clinical research on neurodevelopmental disabilities in children or young adults, including work relevant to American Samoa. The Child Neurology Foundation scholarship supports projects supervised by a child neurology or NDD subspecialist for first-, second-, or third-year U.S. or Canadian students.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) and 509(a) organizations providing intellectual and developmental disability services can apply for McGraw Foundation grants of US $2,000 - US $10,000 to support programs, projects, or operations. With a mission to strengthen education, human services, and health, McGraw Foundation provides flexible funding that may benefit disability-focused initiatives, though grants are generally limited to the greater Chicago area.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving children or adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities, especially those who are physically, mentally, or economically disadvantaged, can apply for the Robert & Joan Dircks Foundation’s one-year project grants, awarding US $1,000 - US $15,000. Programs in American Samoa may be eligible if they align with the foundation’s New Jersey–focused mission and priorities.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations addressing basic needs, youth enrichment, workforce readiness, or domestic violence services near TJX locations can seek program funding that may also benefit people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in American Samoa. The TJX Foundation uses a questionnaire, letter of inquiry, and invitation-only application process for consideration.

Non-sectarian nonprofits supporting disadvantaged people, including those with intellectual or developmental disabilities, can apply for US $5,000 - US $250,000 to help beneficiaries become self-reliant. Grants from Gupta Family Foundation help organizations worldwide, including those serving American Samoa, that address poverty, disability, social exclusion, or disaster-related humanitarian needs and operate with lean overhead.

Nonprofit organizations serving children, education, or health and human services in American Samoa can seek program funding that supports measurable community outcomes. Costco Foundation supports child and family services, including youth services and children’s health, across U.S. communities where it operates; eligible 501(c)(3) programs in American Samoa may be considered through its charitable contributions process.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

Research institutions and healthcare organizations conducting retrospective comparative clinical effectiveness studies in areas like intellectual and developmental disabilities, cancer, maternal health, and mental and behavioral health in American Samoa and beyond can apply for up to US $2,000,000. Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute supports methodologically robust projects that use existing data to inform patient-centered health decision making.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

Nonprofit and humanitarian organizations supporting health, education, or disaster relief for marginalized communities worldwide can apply for Semnani Family Foundation grants. While not limited to American Samoa, programs there serving people with intellectual or developmental disabilities, broader health care access, child welfare, or related human services may be eligible under the foundation’s global focus.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

The PCORI Engagement Award: Capacity Building aims to enhance the capacity of patients and stakeholders in patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research (CER). Projects can last up to two years with funding up to $300,000. Successful proposals will demonstrate understanding of CER, community engagement, and commitment from stakeholders. The initiative encourages the use of existing tools and resources to foster patient involvement in research processes, aligning with national health priorities and addressing pressing healthcare issues.