Best Grants for Preschools in California

The Water Buffalo Club: We Benefit Children Grant supports underserved and at-risk children in Los Angeles County. For over 35 years, the club has helped small charities grow by providing funding, resources, and active member participation. The grants focus on organizations with annual budgets of $500,000 or less and are aimed at capital projects, ensuring that 100% of donations directly benefit these charities. This unique approach combines funding with volunteer efforts to maximize community impact.

About Us

The Community Foundation of Mendocino County is a county-wide nonprofit organization that administers permanent charitable funds established through gifts and bequests from individuals, families, businesses, and other organizations.

American Youth Services Grant Program

The American Youth Services Fund was established in 2022 to continue the legacy of the American Youth Services nonprofit organization. The primary purpose is to make grants to Mendocino County nonprofits that encourage personal enrichment exploration among disadvantaged youth and adults within group experiences in the natural environment.

This Fund awards grants two times per year, during the spring and the fall. 

Priority will be given to projects that: 

• Encourage personal enrichment exploration among disadvantaged youth and young adults within group experiences in the natural outdoor environment.
• Expose youth to the beautiful and unique environment and ecosystems of Mendocino County to deepen their connection to the larger Earth/ Creation.
• Encourage personal faith/ spiritual exploration.
• Inspire stewardship of our lands and oceans.
• Foster a sense of individual well-being, a sense of shared welfare, and communal participation.

Projects will also be considered that:

• Enable Mendocino County youth to travel to experience the natural world and culture outside of Mendocino County for similar purposes.
• Support programs and organizations on the Mendocino Coast that improve the quality of life for youth to help all to develop a healthy mindset and to make positive contributions to the world. 

The National Scleroderma Foundation's New Investigator Grant aims to support emerging researchers dedicated to scleroderma studies. This three-year grant, totaling $200,000, encourages applicants with doctoral degrees and postdoctoral experience. Eligible candidates are invited to submit proposals that may lead to further research funding. The grant emphasizes innovative research approaches while providing essential financial support for early-career investigators. Note that the grant does not cover certain costs, ensuring focused investment in research advancement.

The Field-of-Interest Grant Program supports Mendocino County nonprofits with projects focused on disaster relief, recovery, and resilience. Established in 2016, it aims to provide immediate assistance for natural and human-caused disasters, emphasizing community preparedness and service continuity. Funding priorities include disaster preparedness workshops, community resiliency initiatives, and service continuity projects. Grants range from $1,000 to $5,500, with proposals over $5,000 undergoing a two-stage review process.

The Field-of-Interest Grant Program - Economic Development supports local nonprofits in Mendocino County with grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,500. This program prioritizes initiatives that enhance economic sustainability through technical assistance, financial literacy, and innovative projects. Established in 2016, it aims to foster a healthy and equitable local economy, encouraging collaborative efforts to secure sustainable funding for various community sectors.

The Field-of-Interest Grant Program, established by the Community Foundation of Mendocino County, supports local nonprofits in creating healthy and inclusive communities. Grants ranging from $1,000 to $7,000 target projects that address basic needs, health navigation, and opportunities for women and girls. This initiative fosters equitable access to resources, ensuring all residents can thrive. Organizations are encouraged to apply at least five days ahead of deadlines, with specific eligibility criteria in place.

The Scleroderma-Related Lung Disease— The Debra Lurvey Memorial Research Grant, provided by the National Scleroderma Foundation, aims to support research in scleroderma-related lung disease. With a funding amount of $200,000, the grant encourages established investigators to explore innovative solutions and enhance understanding of this condition, ultimately working towards improving the quality of life for affected individuals and advancing medical knowledge in the field.

The National Scleroderma Foundation supports pediatric scleroderma research with up to $500,000 in funding for new and established investigators. Their mission focuses on advancing medical research and promoting awareness of scleroderma, with the vision of improving the lives of those affected. This initiative aims to encourage innovative research that could lead to better treatments and a potential cure for pediatric scleroderma, enhancing support for affected families.

The Community Support Grant Program by the Community Foundation of Mendocino County offers funding ranging from $500 to $1,000 for local educational opportunities and public events that benefit the community. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, tribes, and schools that serve Mendocino County residents. Grants are awarded based on alignment with the foundation's mission, community impact, planning quality, and outreach scope. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis, emphasizing the need for early submission.

The Marie Darlin Prize, administered by the Juneau-Douglas City Museum and overseen by the Juneau Community Foundation, honors exceptional artistic and scholarly works that reflect Southeast Alaska's cultural heritage. Awarded annually, the prize of $5,000 recognizes individuals or collaborations committed to the region's social and cultural history, community advocacy, and Indigenous identity. Eligible applicants include writers, visual artists, and performers who have produced significant works within the last five years.

The Proposition 1 - River Parkways and Urban Streams for LLAR (CA) grant focuses on enhancing ecosystems and watershed restoration projects within the Lower LA River corridor. With funding between $300,000 and $2,000,000, the program prioritizes projects that protect the Lower LA River, ensure access for diverse communities, and leverage secured matching funds. The initiative aligns with the Lower LA River Revitalization Plan, emphasizing implementation and planning for sustainable development.

The Proposition 68 grant aims to enhance the Lower Los Angeles River and its tributaries, focusing on urban recreation and habitat restoration projects. It prioritizes workforce development and access for diverse populations, with a funding range of $300,000 to $2,000,000. The program allocates 80% for implementation, 10% for planning, and 10% for technical assistance, ensuring that 20% of funds serve disadvantaged communities, fostering sustainable development in the region.

The Warren Alpert Foundation aims to enhance public health by funding medical research, education, and basic human services. With grants under $25,000, it supports initiatives that advance medical treatments and health education. The foundation is committed to fostering innovative research and solutions in healthcare, making a significant impact on community health and well-being.

The MOORE Equity in Mental Health Community Grants Program, initiated by the American Psychiatric Association Foundation, aims to enhance mental health services for young people of color. With grants up to $10,000 over two years, it supports community organizations addressing mental health and substance use inequities. Eligible applicants include non-profits with a focus on culturally relevant care and sustainable solutions. The program fosters collaboration and awareness through innovative initiatives aimed at improving access to essential mental health services.

The Warren Alpert Foundation supports initiatives aimed at enhancing public health through grants exceeding $25,000 for medical research, education, and basic human services. Applications are reviewed quarterly, with deadlines preceding board meetings. The foundation's mission encompasses advancing medical treatments and cures through rigorous research and health education. This commitment empowers various projects that align with their vision of improving community health and fostering innovation in medical practices.

The Warren Alpert Foundation's Distinguished Scholars Award aims to enhance public health by funding innovative research in basic and clinical neurosciences. Nominations are invited from medical schools and research institutions in the U.S., focusing on candidates with a strong post-doctoral record. The selection process emphasizes scholarly achievements, scientific proposals, and letters of recommendation. A total of five awards will be granted to deserving scholars, fostering significant advancements in neuroscience.

The Chef Ann Foundation's Get Schools Cooking program empowers K-12 school districts to shift from heat-and-serve meals to scratch cooking, ensuring students receive fresher and healthier food. By providing tailored technical support and comprehensive assessments, the foundation helps districts create strategic plans to enhance their meal programs over three years. With a vision of equal access to nutritious food for all children, the initiative also includes system improvement grants to facilitate successful implementation.

The AMA Foundation Physicians of Tomorrow Scholarship: Ken Viste Memorial provides $10,000 in tuition assistance to medical students entering their final year. Established to support future physicians, this scholarship aims to assist those from diverse backgrounds. Applicants must be residents of specific Midwestern states and enrolled in accredited medical schools, demonstrating a commitment to serving their communities. With a legacy of over $61 million in scholarships since 1950, the AMA Foundation continues to empower the next generation of healthcare professionals.

The AMA Foundation Award for Health Education recognizes the exemplary educational efforts of physicians, medical students, and residents dedicated to improving public health. Supported by a $3,500 stipend from the John P. McGovern Foundation, this award celebrates individuals who demonstrate outstanding commitment to service, community involvement, and leadership in health education. Eligible candidates include practicing physicians, with special consideration for those addressing issues related to alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.

The Andrew Lloyd Webber Initiative offers Classroom Resources Grants aimed at enhancing theatre education in under-resourced public schools. Funded by a $1.3 million grant from the Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation, the initiative provides essential resources, scholarships, and grants to foster artistic growth. By supporting diverse students and schools, this program opens pathways to careers in theatre, ensuring all young people have access to quality arts education, thereby enriching the cultural landscape of America.

The AMA Foundation's Physicians of Tomorrow Scholarship in Illinois offers $10,000 in tuition assistance to medical students nearing graduation. This prestigious program, established in 1950, has awarded over $61 million in scholarships, emphasizing diversity and support for underrepresented medical students. Eligible applicants must be Illinois residents, involved in organized medicine, and plan to practice in Illinois post-residency. This scholarship continues the AMA Foundation's commitment to advancing medical education and fostering a diverse healthcare workforce.

The AMA Foundation's Physicians of Tomorrow Scholarship provides $10,000 to medical students entering their final year. Since 1950, over $61 million has been awarded to support diverse medical students, particularly those underrepresented in the field. Applicants must show commitment to medicine and patient care, and all students from accredited U.S. medical schools can apply, regardless of AMA membership status.

The Dr. Richard Allen Williams & Genita Evangelista Johnson/Association of Black Cardiologists Scholarship offers $5,000 to African American/Black medical students interested in cardiology. This scholarship is part of the AMA Foundation's Physicians of Tomorrow program, which has awarded over $61 million in scholarships since 1950. Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited U.S. medical school and entering their final year. The funds are designated for tuition costs only.

The David Jones Peck, MD Scholarship for Health Equity, offered by the American Medical Association Foundation, provides $10,000 in tuition assistance to medical students entering their final year. This scholarship aims to support those dedicated to addressing health disparities and promoting equity in marginalized communities. Open to all eligible students, it underscores the foundation's commitment to fostering diversity in medicine and empowering future healthcare leaders.

The AMA Foundation Physicians of Tomorrow Scholarship: Alliance Grassroots provides $10,000 in tuition assistance to medical students entering their final year. With a commitment to supporting diversity in medicine, this scholarship focuses on candidates interested in women's and children's health issues. Open to all medical students, it recognizes volunteerism and research in health-related fields. Since 1950, the AMA Foundation has awarded over $61 million in scholarships, fostering a diverse cohort of future healthcare professionals.

The Wildfire Prevention Grant Program by the California San Gabriel and Lower Los Angeles Rivers and Mountains Conservancy aims to mitigate the impact of wildfires exacerbated by climate change. This program supports projects that enhance forest health, promote sustainable land use, and develop community resilience. Funding ranges from $300,000 to $2,000,000, focusing on strategic fire prevention planning and management in vulnerable areas, particularly the San Gabriel Mountains and urban wildlife corridors.

The AMA Foundation's Physicians of Tomorrow Scholarship, offering $10,000 in tuition assistance, is designed for medical students approaching their final year. This scholarship aims to support underrepresented groups in medicine, including African American, Latine, and Native American students, who are dedicated to serving underserved populations. Since 1950, the AMA Foundation has awarded over $61 million in scholarships, promoting diversity in the medical field.