Best Grants for Youth Programs in Maine

Kiwanis clubs in good standing in the New England and Bermuda District can apply for funding to support youth-focused community service projects in Maine and beyond. Grants from Kiwanis Foundation of New England help clubs launch innovative, child-serving programs, with up to US $1,000 available and preference for projects reaching many children or leveraging matching funds.

Maine 501(c)(3) nonprofits, schools, municipalities, and for-profit or nonprofit event organizers can seek support for youth and education programs, financial literacy, workforce development, housing, and economic development projects. Focused on community impact, Machias Savings Bank invites requests for donations, sponsorships, pledges, and capital support that especially benefit low- and moderate-income youth and families.

Nonprofits serving low-income youth, immigrants, refugees, Indigenous communities, and elders in Maine can seek US $2,500 - US $10,000 for youth services, education, arts access, basic needs, and related programs. With a mission to support environment, health and welfare, arts, education, and churches, Adelard And Valeda Roy Foundation prioritizes projects in Northern New England communities.

Maine nonprofits running youth and family programs that strengthen whole-family wellbeing can access funding to support vulnerable children and caregivers. John T Gorman Foundation provides Maine youth services with invitation-only grants for two-generation strategies that prevent Adverse Childhood Experiences and improve outcomes in education, health, social capital, employment supports, and family economic stability.

The Ludcke Foundation

Guidelines

To identify and support charitable endeavors that provide needed resources and services to children and families, with an emphasis on emotional and physical health, education, and social development.

The Foundation devotes its grants to the fields of education, health, and human services. The trustees have a special interest in programs that focus across two or three of the foundation’s areas of interest and in partnering with other donors with similar objectives to enable more ambitious projects.

Current Grantmaking Preferences

Job training for systems involved young people, job training for adults facing significant barriers, and limited support for innovative approaches to helping children in underserved New England communities overcome significant and often overlapping barriers to educational success.

Access to health programs for all ages, and behavioral health services for children and teens in underserved communities or otherwise facing significant barriers.

Homelessness prevention, housing assistance, food security, legal assistance, holistic family support, support for young people at risk, and support for victims of domestic violence.

Children’s hospitals and general hospitals with pediatric departments in Maine can receive Joy in Childhood Foundation support to host prom-like events for teen patients unable to attend their own school prom. Grants of US $20,000 - US $50,000 help cover themes, space, food, entertainment, formal wear, and other youth-focused program needs.

Children’s hospitals, general hospitals with pediatric departments, and nonprofits serving ill children in Maine can receive US $25,000 - US $65,000 from Joy in Childhood Foundation to build or expand pediatric gaming programs. Funding can cover gaming specialists, equipment, systems, connectivity, and virtual programming, with a focus on engaging teen patients during hospitalization.

Maine 501(c)(3) organizations and fiscally sponsored groups running youth, food justice, reproductive justice, or climate justice programs can seek support through Wild Geese Foundation. Focused on youth services, it prioritizes intersectional, community-based efforts, including New England food justice and sustainable agriculture projects expanding access to affordable, healthy food.

Maine 501(c)(3) nonprofits supporting youth, families, or vulnerable people can apply for Agnes M. Lindsay Trust grants of US $1,000 - US $7,500 for health and welfare, dental care, food security, shelters, and camp scholarships. Grants may help youth programs expand services, equipment, capital projects, or operating support in eligible communities.

Maine youth-serving organizations focused on food access and hunger relief can access funding through the Kiwanis Foundation of New England to run End Hunger New England meal-packing projects. Divisions or SLP administrators that contribute to a 10,000-meal project may receive up to US $2,500, with potential for a second grant if funds remain.

501(c)(3) organizations in Maine running youth programs or environmental initiatives can apply for Sprague’s charitable contributions, with awards from US $250 - US $10,000. Funding supports impactful, community-based projects, especially those benefiting children or advancing environmental stewardship within Sprague’s operating areas.

Maine 501(c)(3) public charities serving youth and children can access funding for youth services, education, health, and related programs through Libra Foundation, with awards up to US $25,000. Eligible projects must take place within Maine and may also involve arts, environment, human services, justice, public benefit, or religion-focused activities.

Nonprofit organizations serving children and youth in Maine and other eligible regions can receive donated toys to distribute to the kids they serve. The Toy Foundation supports youth services by channeling industry toy donations through regional logistics partners, allowing approved member organizations to pick up toys quarterly from nearby facilities.

Maine youth-serving nonprofits and other U.S.-based charitable organizations can seek support for programs that improve communities and families, promote education, and encourage wellness. Maine youth programs can access funding through Encova Foundation of West Virginia, which prioritizes initiatives impacting health, education, safety, and children, especially where Encova associates are actively involved.

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.

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 J.R. Simplot Company Foundation Grant supports U.S. non-profit organizations focused on art, education, youth, community, and global food and agriculture. Established in 1929, the foundation is committed to enhancing community welfare through creative cultural endeavors, educational initiatives, health services, and youth programs. Applications are reviewed quarterly, ensuring a timely response to organizations dedicated to making a positive impact in their communities.

The Rotary Works Foundation Grant supports charitable projects primarily focused on children, youth, and families, emphasizing active Rotarian involvement. Grants range from $500 to $5,000, awarded prior to events. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(1) organizations. Preference is given to projects engaging Rotarians. The application deadline is the 2nd Wednesday of each month, and all grantees must report outcomes post-project.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

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 National Child Traumatic Stress Initiative aims to enhance access to trauma-focused treatment and services for children and families affected by traumatic events. Funded by the US HHS through SAMHSA, this initiative seeks to support domestic public and private nonprofit entities in delivering effective interventions. The program emphasizes the importance of addressing the unique needs of children and adolescents, ensuring they receive the support necessary to recover and thrive.