Best Foundation Grants for Nonprofits in California

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Shantz Kaydon Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Richard and Dolores Shantz, who established the Shantz Kaydon Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Richard Shantz, President and CEO of Muskegon's Kaydon Corporation for many years, felt strongly about college and the value of an education. In the tradition of giving back to the community and the company that was good to him, Dick Shantz and his wife, Dolores, established the Shantz Kaydon Scholarship to benefit the children and step-children of employees of Kaydon Corporation in its Muskegon locations. This scholarship award of $12,000 over four years will help to ensure that a quality education is received by children of Kaydon Corporation employees far into the future.

Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors. Applications are accepted from mid-November until mid-March. Scholarship award recipients will be announced at the high school awards ceremony. 

Maurice D. Taylor Memorial Music Scholarship

Established by the family of Mr. Taylor who was originally from Montrose and became a nationally recognized music and band instructor. The scholarship will benefit a student from Montrose or Elk Lake who will attend a post-secondary degree program to major in music.   

The Public Policy & International Affairs (PPIA) Scholarship at Harvard Kennedy School is designed for alumni of the PPIA Junior Summer Institute. This scholarship aims to support both U.S. and international students by considering merit and financial need. Harvard Kennedy School is committed to fostering leadership and public policy expertise, making a significant impact on global societal issues. Recipients must have participated in the PPIA program to be eligible for this limited funding.

The Visionary Women Grants support nonprofit organizations and initiatives that enhance the status of women and girls in the Greater Los Angeles area. Focus areas include the arts, education, economic empowerment, and social services, targeting programs that foster participation, improve academic outcomes, and provide essential services. Eligible organizations must hold 501(c)(3) status, operate for at least three years, and serve predominantly women and girls. This funding aims to create impactful changes in the community.

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Sidney and Adelaide Slater Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Sidney and Adelaide Slater, who established the Sidney and Adelaide Slater Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Although we were never privileged to know them, Sidney and Adelaide Slater were well aware of the Community Foundation and its ability to carry out their charitable objectives. Their will established an annuity trust for a sole beneficiary and stated that, upon the death of that beneficiary, the remainder of the estate should go to the Community Foundation to establish the Sidney and Adelaide Slater Education. This scholarship will be used to help Muskegon County's needy and deserving students attend college, ensuring that the ideals that were important to the Slaters will endure for many years to come.

The John Berger Fellowship at Harvard Kennedy School supports MPP students who are graduates of Harvard College, aiming to work in U.S. or international institutions focused on international affairs. This fellowship is part of HKS's commitment to improving public policy and leadership, offering scholarships and fellowships based on merit and financial need, without discrimination against applicants based on citizenship, race, or other protected classifications.

The Foundation awards scholarships to high school seniors in Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot Counties, who are planning to attend a college, university, or trade school. There is one scholarship that is available to students in Cecil County. 

Talbot Paramedic Foundation/Sylvia Gannon Scholarship

Awarded to residents of Talbot County, and/or to members of a local Volunteer Fire & Rescue Association, who are planning to pursue careers as Emergency Medical Technicians.

The TW and Marjorie Smith Scholarship, established by the Ashland County Community Foundation, aims to support graduating seniors from any Ashland County high school who are pursuing a degree in Agriculture or a related field. This scholarship not only provides financial assistance for education at accredited colleges or universities but also honors the Smiths' commitment to benefiting their local community.

The Common Cents Scholarship, offered by the Communities Foundation of Texas, provides up to two $3,000 scholarships to Dallas ISD students involved in the Common Cents philanthropy program. This scholarship can be utilized for tuition, books, and fees at accredited colleges, universities, trade, or vocational schools across the U.S. Eligible applicants must be current Juniors or Seniors at a Dallas ISD High School and must have participated in the program during the application year.

The C.V.M. Scholarship Fund, established by Communities Foundation of Texas, offers up to $10,000 to graduates of Mildred Independent School District pursuing further education. Since 1953, CFT has collaborated with donors and nonprofits to uplift communities. Eligible candidates must have a GPA of 4.0 (out of 7.0) and meet SAT or ACT score requirements. This initiative aims to empower local students in their educational journeys.

The Salt Lick Incubator offers project grants ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 for emerging musicians in contemporary genres. These grants support activities such as recording, music videos, and marketing strategies. Recipients receive mentorship to enhance their careers and participate in analytics tracking to refine their strategies. With a focus on song-driven music, the incubator also hosts retreats and performances, fostering collaboration and growth for artists at various stages of their careers.

The Dr. Anson L. Clark Scholarship, established by Communities Foundation of Texas, provides financial support of up to $20,000 for graduating seniors from Dallas Independent School District. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.2 and achieve either a SAT score of 1190 or an ACT score of 24. This initiative aims to empower students to pursue higher education in Texas, fostering academic achievement and community growth.

The Foundation awards scholarships to nontraditional students, students who are not graduating from high school this academic year, who are continuing their education through degree or certificate programs, seminars, workshops, or customized training. The application is open throughout the year, and applications are reviewed and determined on a quarterly basis. 

Catherine Pratt Memorial Scholarship

Awarded current college students, who are enrolled in Nursing.

The Dr. Frederick Jones Sr. Family Scholarship Fund, established by the Communities Foundation of Texas, aims to support graduating high school seniors from Southwest Dallas, specifically Duncanville, DeSoto, Cedar Hill, and Lancaster. This scholarship is intended for students pursuing degrees in STEM fields or medicine at accredited colleges or universities across the United States. Eligible candidates must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.8 and be in good academic standing.

The Elizabeth Abrams Memorial Scholarship, established by the Communities Foundation of Texas, offers a one-time award of $3,000 to graduating seniors from specific Plano high schools who were part of their swim teams. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and meet SAT and ACT score requirements. This scholarship honors Elizabeth "Lizzie" Abrams and supports students pursuing their educational goals.

The Foundation awards scholarships to high school seniors in Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot Counties, who are planning to attend a college, university, or trade school. There is one scholarship that is available to students in Cecil County. 

Margaret Ferree Memorial Scholarship

Awarded to students graduating from Talbot County Public Schools.

The Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Fund, managed by HealthWell Foundation, aims to alleviate financial barriers for underinsured patients battling ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disease. The fund provides financial assistance for prescription copays, insurance premiums, and related healthcare expenses, ensuring patients can access vital treatments. With an average grant utilization of $3,000 over twelve months, the fund exemplifies HealthWell's commitment to ensuring no patient is denied necessary healthcare due to cost. Since 2004, HealthWell has awarded over $1.2 billion in grants, supporting more than 1.1 million patients.

The Giana Foundation Scholarship offers one-year scholarships of up to $5,000 for graduating high school seniors from public schools in Dallas, Collin, or Denton counties. Eligible students must pursue a degree in Visual and/or Performing Arts and maintain a GPA of at least 2.5. The scholarship can be used for tuition, books, and fees at any accredited college or university in the U.S. Up to four scholarships are awarded annually, promoting educational opportunities in the arts.

Beckley Area Foundation

Beckley Area Foundation was established in January 1985 by ten community-minded citizens. It began with a gift of $1.1 million from the Dr. Thomas Walker Memorial Health Foundation as “seed” money for this Raleigh County project. BAF assets have grown to over $70 million with over 500 different funds managed by our three trustee banks. Today, Beckley Area Foundation is one of West Virginia’s largest community foundations.

Since its inception, BAF has distributed over $23 million to charities and other worthy projects in the fields of education, public recreation, health & human services, the arts, animal services and beautification.

Scholarships

The Beckley Area Foundation proudly manages scholarship funds established by individuals, businesses, and organizations dedicated to helping students pursue higher education. Many of these scholarships are tailored for specific schools, fields of study, or graduates from local high schools, while others offer broader opportunities. No matter the path, our scholarships aim to support students from our region as they work toward achieving their educational goals.

Most of these scholarships must be awarded to students from our geographic area or at least preference given to such students. While the majority of scholarships benefit Raleigh County applicants there are others designated for Fayette, Summers, Webster, and Wyoming students. 

Bill Weese Trades Scholarship

Residents of Webster County, WV; Recent graduates and adult career-switchers seeking a professional trade or retraining assistance; Must attend a trade school including vocational programs offering certification or degree programs designed to teach specific employment skills; Additional requirement details available in application.

This scholarship is renewable.

The Foundation awards scholarships to high school seniors in Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot Counties, who are planning to attend a college, university, or trade school. There is one scholarship that is available to students in Cecil County. 

Sarah H. Willis Scholarship

Awarded to students graduating from high schools in Talbot County.

The Mr. & Mrs. W.L. Boyd Schooling Scholarship, established in 1953, provides up to $8,000 in scholarships for graduating seniors from Collin County, Texas high schools. Eligible students must maintain a minimum 3.2 GPA and complete the FAFSA before applying. This initiative, supported by the Communities Foundation of Texas, aims to empower students pursuing higher education at accredited institutions within Texas, fostering community growth and development.

The Van London Memorial Scholarship Fund, established in 1953 by Communities Foundation of Texas, offers a one-year scholarship up to $15,000 for students who are blind. This scholarship supports tuition, fees, books, and on-campus housing for those pursuing college or trade school certifications, ensuring that education is accessible to all. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal residents and in good standing as students.

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Sturtevant and Kidwell Girl Scout Gold Award Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the Michigan Pine and Dunes Girl Scout Council Board of Directors, who established the Girl Scouts Gold Award Scholarship Fund of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. In 1993, a young Girl Scout came to the Foundation to inquire about establishing a scholarship fund to benefit girls in Muskegon, Oceana, Lake and Newaygo counties who have been active in Girl Scouting. It was her intent that the Girl Scouts would raise money over five years for this fund, and the Girl Scout Board of Directors agreed to match the monies raised by the senior Girl Scouts involved in fundraising projects. Their fund became a reality in late 1996, and we look forward to working with them to present scholarships to senior Girl Scouts who will be continuing their education.

Beckley Area Foundation

Beckley Area Foundation was established in January 1985 by ten community-minded citizens. It began with a gift of $1.1 million from the Dr. Thomas Walker Memorial Health Foundation as “seed” money for this Raleigh County project. BAF assets have grown to over $70 million with over 500 different funds managed by our three trustee banks. Today, Beckley Area Foundation is one of West Virginia’s largest community foundations.

Since its inception, BAF has distributed over $23 million to charities and other worthy projects in the fields of education, public recreation, health & human services, the arts, animal services and beautification.

Scholarships

The Beckley Area Foundation proudly manages scholarship funds established by individuals, businesses, and organizations dedicated to helping students pursue higher education. Many of these scholarships are tailored for specific schools, fields of study, or graduates from local high schools, while others offer broader opportunities. No matter the path, our scholarships aim to support students from our region as they work toward achieving their educational goals.

Most of these scholarships must be awarded to students from our geographic area or at least preference given to such students. While the majority of scholarships benefit Raleigh County applicants there are others designated for Fayette, Summers, Webster, and Wyoming students. 

Louisa Holton Morris Music Scholarship

Music studies with preference to those specializing in organ music; Weighted for need and merit; West Virginia resident with preference to Raleigh County.​

This scholarship is renewable.

The Theodore S. and Kathy Smith Smetzer Scholarship, offered by the Ashland County Community Foundation, aims to support single parents, widowed individuals, and non-traditional students in furthering their education. Eligible applicants must have graduated from an Ashland County high school with a minimum GPA of 2.5 and have been accepted to an accredited institution. The scholarship considers work experience, financial need, and unusual circumstances, making it a vital resource for those facing financial hardships.

About the Chester County Community Foundation

Our Mission

The Chester County Community Foundation connects people who care with the causes that matter, so their philanthropy makes a difference now and forever.

Charles W. and Michelle Dickinson Scholarship Fund

The purpose of the Charles W. & Michelle Dickinson Scholarship Fund is to support charitable causes, with a particular emphasis on Christian-based organizations and initiatives that serve individuals, families, and communities in need.

In addition, the Fund is committed to investing in the next generation of skilled trades professionals by awarding scholarships to students pursuing careers in vocational and technical fields, including:

• Diesel Mechanics
• Automotive Mechanics
• Welding
• Auto Body Repair
• Collision Repair

Through charitable giving and educational support, the Fund seeks to create opportunities, encourage self-sufficiency, and make a lasting impact in the lives of individuals while honoring the values of faith, hard work, service, and community,

Charles W. Dickinson is the founder of D&D Collision Services, C M D Services Inc & Pottstown Area Rapid Transit.

The PLTW Launch - Program Expansion initiative by Burns & McDonnell aims to enhance access to STEM education in U.S. schools. This program focuses on empowering students by providing real-world learning experiences and essential skills. Grants will support schools in expanding PLTW programs during the 2026-2027 academic year, benefiting students from underserved communities. By fostering a deeper understanding of STEM, the initiative seeks to inspire the next generation of innovators and problem solvers.