Best Grants for Children in Arkansas

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving children and families in Arkansas and the broader Southern region can seek support for youth services, education, poverty relief, and related programs. Focused on community well-being, Robinson Foundation invites established charities (3+ years) to request single-year, non-capital funding that delivers tangible, meaningful impact for young people and their families.

Simmons First Foundation provides Arkansas youth-serving 501(c)(3) organizations and qualifying schools with US $2,500 - US $50,000 for K–12 special education and substance abuse or violence prevention programs. Eligible entities must be in a county with a Simmons Bank facility and use funds for program costs rather than administrative or general operating expenses.

Children’s hospitals, general hospitals with pediatric departments, and nonprofits serving children battling illness in Arkansas can receive US $25,000 - US $65,000 from Joy in Childhood Foundation to build or expand pediatric gaming programs. Funding can support gaming specialists, systems, connectivity, and virtual programming, with a focus on engaging teen patients over single- or multi-year projects.

Children’s and general hospitals with pediatric departments in Arkansas can receive US $20,000 - US $50,000 to host prom-like experiences for teen patients ages 13–19 who cannot attend their own prom due to illness. Joy in Childhood Foundation supports event costs such as space, food, entertainment, formal wear, and related services.

About QuikTripQuikTrip believes in investing in the communities in which our employees live and work. Every year, QuikTrip donates 5% of our annual net profit to qualified 501c3 non-profit agencies, which includes our United Way campaign match, support for National Safe Place agencies, Folds of Honor scholarships and many other agencies that support at-risk youth and early childhood education.Mission: To wisely invest dollars in community efforts that will help impact (in measurable terms) individuals in our society who are dependent on the charitable support of others. We believe the most effective way to do that is to invest our contribution dollars and volunteers in strategic efforts that help those at risk reach their functional capacity as successful, independent citizens.About QuikTrip Charitable GrantsQuikTrip funds 501c3 agencies located in the cities in which we have stores and our employees live and work. Funding can include: “in-kind” products (coupons, gift cards or product donation), formal grants, fundraiser/event sponsorships and employee volunteer time.Focus Areas:

• Creating Safe Communities
  • First Responders: QuikTrip is proud to partner with law enforcement and first responders in every market we serve, making sure that they have the tools, training and support they need to keep our communities safe and to return home safely to their families after each shift.
  • Homeless Outreach & Alternatives to Police Response: To significantly reduce non-emergency calls and help people in crisis get back on their feet, QuikTrip funds dedicated homeless outreach teams across our communities. These teams engage individuals experiencing homelessness and living in encampments – connecting people to services, shelter, detox and long-term care.

• Creating Strong Communities
  • Ending Homelessness: We support emergency, transitional and permanent supportive housing, diversion and prevention programs, and more.
  • Mental Health & Substance Abuse : We know that healthy communities are safe communities, which is why we invest in detox and substance abuse treatment centers, and behavioral health centers and services to end the perpetuation of cycles of trauma and addiction.
  • At-Risk Youth: We especially prioritize services for at-risk youth – those aging out of foster care, justice-involved or without stable support systems.
• Additional Community Commitments
  • United Way: Employee donation matching in all markets.
  • Folds of Honor: Scholarships for families of fallen or wounded service members and first responders.
  • National Safe Place: QT stores serve as Safe Place locations for youth in crisis, with trained staff ready to assist.

Arkansas youth-serving and children’s organizations can access funding through Encova Foundation of West Virginia to support programs that improve communities and families, promote education, and encourage wellness. Eligible applicants must be U.S.-based charitable organizations with a verifiable tax ID, with preference for initiatives impacting health, education, safety, and children, especially where Encova associates are actively involved.

Nonprofit organizations and schools improving rural youth programs and education in Arkansas can receive up to US $2,000 for tangible, long-lasting items. Mfa Oil Foundation supports youth services and civic initiatives in communities where it has members and employees; eligible projects include leadership development for rural youth and agricultural or cooperative education.

501(c)(3) organizations in Arkansas serving K–12 youth in education or health care can apply for Simmons First Foundation’s Mini Grant, awarding US $1,000 - US $2,500 for immediate, long-term program needs. Children’s organizations in nearby states like Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas may also be eligible.

Youth-serving nonprofits in Arkansas working in arts, education, community programs, or food and agriculture can seek funding that benefits children and young people. Focused on youth, the J R Simplot Company Foundation invites U.S. organizations whose primary missions include youth services and related community support to apply; requests are reviewed quarterly.

The JUF Springboard Access Grant aims to make Jewish programming more accessible for teens in grades 8-12 in the Chicago area. This grant covers up to 50% of the tuition costs for first-time participants in multi-day programs organized by approved Jewish nonprofits. It encourages teens to engage with their community and explore new interests while ensuring financial barriers are lowered. Eligible teens are expected to share their experiences with the organization after participating.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations supporting underserved youth, offenders/former offenders, or victims of crime can seek funding for youth and justice-related services, including programs in Arkansas. CoreCivic Foundation supports organizations across the U.S., with preference for those in Tennessee and those aligned with its mission and able to demonstrate measurable outcomes.

U.S.-based nonprofits supporting youth-led climate and environmental justice projects, including work with children and teens in Arkansas, can apply for Earth Rising Foundation grants of US $200 - US $20,000. Funding supports youth climate activism, Indigenous sovereignty, regenerative agriculture, and projects linking climate change with racial, gender, and migration justice and envisioning equitable futures.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations supporting children or disadvantaged youth, including those in Arkansas, can apply for the Robert B McMillen Foundation’s grants to advance medical research or social enhancement programs. Eligible projects may address pediatric cardiology, genetics, preventative health, youth services, poverty alleviation, or equity-focused initiatives, with added consideration for arts-based approaches.

Arkansas youth-serving 501(c)(3) nonprofits can seek support for education, youth services, and related programs benefiting children and young people. Edward & Wanda Jordan Foundation provides U.S. organizations with grants that advance education, scientific research, and spiritual ministries, with a special emphasis on improving the welfare and quality of life of children and youth.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(1) organizations planning charitable projects for children, youth, and families can apply for Rotary Works Foundation grants of US $500 - US $5,000. While the foundation is based in the La Crosse region, Arkansas youth and children’s programs that meet the criteria may be eligible, especially those engaging Rotarian participation.

Mildred's Dream Foundation Grant provides vital support to community-based non-profit organizations focused on Education, Domestic Violence, and Physical or Mental Health Challenges. With grants up to $25,000, the foundation aims to honor Mildred's commitment to improving lives and creating a better world. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) non-profits providing direct services in these areas. Notably, the foundation excludes funding for certain institutions, ensuring resources are directed to those genuinely in need.

The Josh Dubin Fellowship, launched in January 2022 by the Shawn Carter Foundation, is a seven-week paid program designed for five exceptional students interested in the legal field. This immersive experience includes mentorship from legal professionals, direct involvement in case analysis, and off-site visits to courtrooms. Fellows not only gain invaluable insights into legal practices but also receive additional scholarship support for their educational pursuits, empowering them to overcome socio-economic barriers and achieve their dreams.

The Hot Springs Area Community Foundation's Youth Advisory Council Grant Cycle focuses on empowering youth in Garland County. Established in 1991, this grant cycle aims to support programs that enhance the lives of children and young people. As part of the Arkansas Community Foundation, it has awarded over $16 million in grants to address various community needs, including education, health, and arts, fostering a vibrant community for all.

The Eleanor & Henry Jansen Foundation, established in 1998, supports nonprofit organizations in Whatcom County, focusing on youth programs. The foundation encourages proposals that directly impact the community and emphasizes the importance of a substantial volunteer base. Special consideration is given to projects that were significant to Eleanor and Henry Jansen. Applicants are encouraged to seek matching funds from multiple sources, with priority given to youth-serving initiatives.

The Dr. Chao-ying & Sue Wu Early Learning Scholarship, established by the Chuckanut Health Foundation in 2022, honors the vital contributions of Dr. Chao-ying and Sue Wu to the health and education of Whatcom youth. This scholarship aims to eliminate financial barriers for local students pursuing careers in early learning, reflecting the Foundation's commitment to investing in community potential and fostering opportunities for future generations.

The BTCF: Simple Gifts Fund Grant supports young artists aged 13-19 in the Berkshire Taconic region, providing financial assistance for summer enrichment programs in the arts. Established in 1998 in memory of folk singer Bill Crofut, the fund aims to empower youth through small grants that can cover costs for tuition, art supplies, or living expenses. The grant fosters creativity and personal growth, ensuring that young individuals have opportunities to pursue their passions.

The Alice and Richard Henriquez Memorial Fund and Youth World Awareness Program, established by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, supports young individuals (ages 14-22) from Berkshire, Columbia, northeast Dutchess, and northwest Litchfield counties. It provides grants for international travel experiences aimed at promoting peace and justice. Since 1995, this initiative has encouraged students to engage in humanitarian work abroad, fostering cultural understanding and personal growth while addressing social injustices.

The Ochylski Family Foundation supports registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations through grants aimed at enhancing their operational capacity. With an application deadline of October 1, organizations must submit a detailed request outlining their initiatives. The foundation's mission aligns with its commitment to foster community development and nonprofit effectiveness in Iowa, ensuring that resources are allocated to impactful projects that serve the public good.

Wegmans Family Foundation Inc focuses on cultivating healthy communities through support for hunger relief, health initiatives, education, and youth programs. They prioritize collaborations with local nonprofits to enhance community well-being, offering assistance in key areas like economic mobility and youth engagement. Despite their wide-ranging support, they have specific ineligibility criteria, such as not accommodating personal requests or solicitation on their property, aiming to direct resources effectively where they are needed most.

The Dale Jr. Foundation is dedicated to empowering underprivileged youth through targeted support in five key areas: Empowerment, Education, Wellness, Hunger, and Hope. By providing safe homes, educational resources, and healthy food, the foundation helps children overcome adversity and achieve their dreams. Their commitment extends to various charities, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive. The foundation emphasizes community support and holistic care, making a significant impact in the lives of many young people.

The CDC's K01 Mentored Research Scientist Development Award aims to support new investigators in conducting vital research to prevent interpersonal violence and suicide among children and adolescents. This grant encourages proposals that address critical public health issues, including adverse childhood experiences and youth violence, while fostering research independence. Applicants are expected to explore the impact of technology on violence and demonstrate the relevance of their findings to prevention efforts.

The Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes honors 25 exceptional young leaders aged 8 to 18 from diverse backgrounds across the U.S. and Canada. Each winner receives $10,000 for education or service projects, a personalized plaque, and media opportunities. Selection focuses on impactful service activities primarily initiated by the young hero, demonstrating qualities of courage, generosity, and moral purpose. This prize encourages youth to inspire others and create positive change in their communities.