Best Bridgeport Grants for Nonprofits in Connecticut

The Hazen and Sawyer Scholarship, valued at $10,000, is awarded annually to a graduate-level candidate dedicated to addressing critical challenges in drinking water, water reuse, and water resources. Sponsored by the American Water Works Association (AWWA), this scholarship supports students who are permanent residents of the U.S., Mexico, or Canada. Eligible funds cover tuition, books, and related educational expenses, enhancing the recipient's ability to contribute to the water industry.

The Avel Louise Gordly Scholarship supports Black women graduates of Oregon high schools who wish to pursue post-secondary education in Oregon or at Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Award amounts vary, with the possibility of renewal for up to four years. Eligible applicants must be Oregon residents, identify as Black and female, and enroll at least half-time in a public or nonprofit private college or university in the United States.

The HEEF: Hispanic Education Endowment Fund Scholarship provides academic financial support to US Citizens, Permanent Residents, and Dream Act/AB 540 students residing in Orange County, California. With awards starting at $2,500, this fund assists high school and community college transfers who demonstrate financial need and plan to enroll in a four-year college or university in Fall 2025. Additional donor-specific sub-funds offer varying amounts, enhancing accessibility to higher education.

The Healthy American Forests Initiative, led by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), aims to enhance forest health and resilience through targeted funding. This initiative anticipates awarding 10-15 grants ranging from $250,000 to $2 million, supporting projects up to 2 years in duration. A 20% non-federal match is required, and interested applicants are encouraged to collaborate with NFWF and Native Americans in Philanthropy for potential match funding.

The Ford Philanthropy Scholarship, offered by the LULAC National Educational Service Centers (LNESC), supports students pursuing STEM careers in the automotive and mobility sectors. It covers tuition, fees, and essential resources, enabling students to thrive academically. Applicants must major in relevant fields such as Computer Science or Engineering and maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher. This initiative enhances educational access and fosters leadership, preparing students for future success.

The Lavelle – Brother Kearney Scholarship Program offers financial assistance and career preparation for legally blind college students in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Through competitive scholarships, the program supports higher education at select institutions in the Tri-State area, fostering independence and professional development. Recipients are selected based on academic performance and essential skills, ensuring they are well-prepared for future careers. This initiative not only promotes educational opportunities but also enhances the quality of life for blind and visually impaired individuals.

The ASCO Clinical Oncology & Research Experience (ASCO CORE) offers medical students immersive exposure to the field of oncology through shadowing experiences in clinical and research settings. With two distinct tracks, participants can gain insights into patient care or research practices, guided by mentors. Eligible students must be enrolled in a U.S. DO or MD program and maintain a good academic record. This program aims to inspire the next generation of oncology professionals.

About Decatur County Community Foundation

Decatur County Community Foundation connects people who care with causes that matter. 

Our Mission

To inspire the generosity of our community to create a lasting impact.

​We help visionary donors practice highly effective charitable giving; award grants to not-for-profits doing good in the community; award scholarships to ease the financial burden of education for students; provide leadership to make Decatur County a better community.

Online Scholarships

The following scholarships are managed by the Decatur County Community Foundation. Complete details for each scholarship are available on the individual online scholarship application.

Don and Barb Horan Memorial Scholarship

The mission of this scholarship is to help a student residing in Decatur County that will graduate from Oldenburg Academy.

The Laura Brown Memorial Scholarship offers a $4,000 award to students pursuing degrees in agriculture or culinary arts. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of at least 3.5 and reside in Santa Cruz County or Pajaro Valley. The scholarship is awarded upon proof of college enrollment and can be distributed over a maximum of four years. Preference is given to students who have participated in 4-H programs, supporting their educational journey in these fields.

The Disaster Distress Helpline (DDH) offers 24/7 crisis counseling to individuals in the U.S. and its territories facing emotional distress from disasters. Managed by SAMHSA, the helpline aims to enhance and strengthen access to crucial support services year-round, ensuring that those affected by natural or human-caused disasters receive the help they need to mitigate behavioral health impacts.

The National Child Traumatic Stress Initiative aims to enhance trauma-focused treatment and services for children and adolescents affected by traumatic events. By increasing access to these vital services, the initiative seeks to support families in overcoming the challenges posed by trauma. Eligible applicants include public and private nonprofit entities, ensuring a broad reach for effective intervention and support within communities.

The Implementing Zero Suicide in Health Systems program aims to enhance suicide prevention efforts for adults within health systems. Funded by the US HHS's Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), this initiative employs a comprehensive approach that incorporates all seven elements of the Zero Suicide framework: Lead, Train, Identify, Engage, Treat, Transition, and Improve. This program seeks to create safer health environments and reduce suicide rates effectively.

The FY2026 Cooperative Agreement for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Administrator aims to enhance and manage the 988 Lifeline, connecting individuals in crisis through various communication methods to a network of certified crisis centers. This initiative seeks to link people with vital emergency, behavioral health, and social services, providing essential support to those in need. The program is funded by the US HHS's Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), emphasizing mental health resources and accessibility.

The J.J. Crosetti, Jr. Memorial Scholarship offers a $1,500 award to students majoring in agriculture. To qualify, applicants must either reside in Santa Cruz County or be members of the Santa Cruz County Farm Bureau. The scholarship is awarded upon proof of college enrollment, making it an excellent opportunity for aspiring agricultural professionals to receive financial support for their education.

The Charles and Louis Lincoln Scholarship, awarded by the Erie Community Foundation, provides financial assistance to Erie High School students who are first- or second-generation Americans. This scholarship supports those with demonstrated scholastic ability and financial need, helping them pursue higher education. In 2023, over $800,000 was awarded to more than 500 students, reflecting the foundation's commitment to educational access and support for diverse communities.

The Spanos Family Memorial Scholarship, funded by the Erie Community Foundation, offers financial support to outstanding students who are active members of the Assumption Greek Orthodox Church in Erie. In 2023, over $800,000 in scholarships were awarded to more than 500 students pursuing higher education. Applications are evaluated based on merit, academic performance, financial need, and community involvement, ensuring that deserving individuals receive the assistance they need to succeed in their educational endeavors.

The Peter C. Sotus, M.D. Scholarship is part of the Erie Community Foundation's initiative that awarded over $800,000 in scholarships in 2023 to support students pursuing post-secondary education. This scholarship targets high school seniors accepted into accredited institutions, focusing on careers in medicine or music. Preference is given to students born outside the US or children of non-US born parents. This award encourages diversity and support for aspiring professionals.

The Stazer Sisters’ Scholarship, provided by the Erie Community Foundation, supports U.S. citizens graduating from the Northwest Pennsylvania Collegiate Academy who are entering a four-year college. In 2023, over $800,000 was awarded to more than 500 students, based on their academic achievements, financial need, and extracurricular involvement. This scholarship aims to empower deserving students to achieve their educational goals and contribute positively to their communities.

The NWPA Food Council Scholarship, offered by the Erie Community Foundation, supports Erie County high school graduates with a minimum 3.0 GPA pursuing post-secondary education or training. With over $800,000 awarded in 2023, this scholarship is particularly aimed at those entering the food, grocery, or convenience store industries. This initiative underscores the Foundation's commitment to empowering local students and enhancing workforce development in essential sectors.

The John R. Stempka Memorial Scholarship, established by Linda Stempka and family, supports Erie County residents pursuing technical education, particularly in welding. In 2023, the Erie Community Foundation awarded over $800,000 in scholarships to empower more than 500 students in their educational endeavors. This scholarship aims to help individuals achieve their career goals and enhance their skills in the technical field, ensuring a brighter future for the community.

The Judith A. Dormann “Good Apple” Scholarship, awarded by the Erie Community Foundation, aims to support students who may not consider post-secondary education. With over $800,000 allocated to scholarships in 2023, this initiative seeks to recognize hard-working individuals demonstrating strong personal initiative and a commendable work ethic. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5, ensuring that the scholarship reaches those who are committed to their educational goals.

The NIH Director's Early Independence Award encourages exceptional early-career researchers to embark on independent research immediately after completing their doctoral degree or clinical training. This initiative accelerates the transition to independent research careers while supporting innovative projects across all areas of biomedical sciences. It is part of the NIH Common Fund's High-Risk, High-Reward Research program, aiming to foster groundbreaking discoveries.

The NIH Director's Pioneer Award Program aims to support exceptionally creative scientists who propose innovative research projects with the potential to significantly impact biomedical sciences. The program encourages bold ideas that diverge from existing research trajectories and welcomes applications across all areas of the biomedical field. As part of the High-Risk, High-Reward Research Program, this award fosters pioneering efforts that may lead to transformative advancements in health and medicine.

The Gary & Helen Howell Family Scholarship Fund, established by the Erie Community Foundation, offers financial support to high school seniors from local schools such as McDowell and Cathedral Prep who demonstrate financial need and have a GPA of 3.0 or higher. In 2023, the foundation awarded over $800,000 in scholarships to more than 500 students pursuing post-secondary education, showcasing its commitment to enhancing educational opportunities in the community.

The Douglas & Deborah Murphy Scholarship, offered by the Erie Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Erie High School who aspire to continue their education or training. To be eligible, students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. In 2023, the foundation awarded over $800,000 in scholarships to more than 500 students, helping them pursue diverse career paths beyond high school.

The Martin Family Scholarship, sponsored by the Erie Community Foundation, provides financial assistance to graduating seniors from Erie County High Schools. With over $800,000 awarded in 2023, this scholarship prioritizes students with at least a 3.0 GPA who demonstrate financial need and have engaged in extracurricular activities. Eligible applicants must have completed two years of a foreign language and participated in school sports or clubs, promoting a well-rounded educational experience.

The 3M Skilled Trades Scholarship, funded by the SkillPointe Foundation, supports students pursuing careers in high-demand fields such as carpentry, construction management, and welding. It aims to address the skills gap by providing funding for vocational education, helping individuals gain essential skills for the workforce. Eligible applicants include those enrolled in postsecondary training programs, with scholarships to be used within a year of acceptance. This initiative seeks to empower workers and meet the needs of employers.