Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in California

The Aloha Prince Hall Hawaii Foundation Fund offers scholarships to graduating high school seniors from Hawaii who demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.7. The fund prioritizes students enrolling full-time in accredited four-year institutions and considers community service and extracurricular activities. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility criteria. This initiative supports the educational aspirations of Hawaii's youth, fostering academic achievement in post-secondary education.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Jeannette Turner Memorial Scholarship

Dorothy Ellen Thew, a lifelong member of the Marion community, left, as part of her legacy, a gift to create three scholarship funds at Marion Community Foundation. A noteworthy person in her own right, Dorothy designated that three scholarship funds be created from her estate to honor beloved members of her family. The Jeannette Turner Memorial Scholarship, created in 2010, honors her aunt’s work as a teacher at the former Silver Street Elementary School.

The 1687 Foundation Book Ministry was established in response to the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing, aiming to provide Christian literature to those in need, including first responders and at-risk populations. This initiative supports various 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations dedicated to disaster relief, healthcare, and homelessness. By focusing on established ministries, the Foundation ensures that resources effectively reach those who need them most, fostering hope and healing through the power of literature.

Good Sports is a national non-profit organization dedicated to donating new sports equipment, footwear, and apparel to schools and youth organizations across the U.S. This program allows approved organizations to receive up to eight donations over two years. Eligibility includes serving youth aged 3-18 in high poverty areas and ensuring access to physical activity. Organizations must also adhere to specific requirements, including shipping fees and evaluations after each donation.

The AARP Community Challenge Grant supports projects that enhance community living for residents aged 50 and older. With a focus on immediate improvements and long-term progress, grants range from $10,000 to $25,000, covering areas like public spaces, transportation, and digital literacy. Since 2017, AARP has awarded over $20.1 million through more than 1,700 grants across the U.S. Eligible organizations include nonprofits and government entities committed to serving the needs of older adults.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Marion Women’s Business Council Scholarship

The Marion Women’s Business Council created this scholarship fund in 2017 from member contributions to support future women in business. 

The Women’s Business Council Scholarship Fund annually awards a scholarship to a female student from a Marion County high school pursuing studies in business, finance, economics, marketing, management, advertising, accounting, human resources, or entrepreneurship.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Mary Ellen Withrow Scholarship

Marion’s “favorite daughter,” Mary Ellen Withrow, the 40th Treasurer of the United States, created a scholarship fund in 2016 for female students from any Marion County high school, with special consideration for those pursuing the fields of finance or political science. 

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Nancy O. Whitaker Memorial Scholarship

The Nancy O. Whitaker Memorial Scholarship is available to students pursing an education in the field of speech and hearing, including research, treatment, education, and cures for people who suffer from speech and hearing impairments and diseases.

The Whitaker Scholarship is open to high school seniors who have lived in Marion for at least the last two years. 

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Norman Withrow Golf Scholarship

The Norman Withrow Golf Scholarship Fund supports students from any Marion County high school who participate in varsity golf to attend the college or university of their choice.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Robert M. & Dorothy C. Wopat Scholarship

The largest scholarship fund at Marion Community Foundation, the Wopat Scholarship awards $100,000+ annually in support of local students.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

St. John Lutheran Church (Windfall) Scholarship

This scholarship fund was created in 2024 by the members of St. John Lutheran (Windfall) Church to support Marion and Morrow County students active with a Christian church. The fund, formerly known as the Horst Scholarship, migrated from the church to the stewardship of Marion Community Foundation.

The scholarship is open to seniors and graduates of high schools located in Marion and Morrow counties (must be a resident of one those counties at the time of application). Applicants must demonstrate that they are affiliated with a Christian church, located in Marion or Morrow County, that adheres to the Apostles’ and Nicene Creeds.

First consideration is given to seniors and candidates for graduation from high school; then, to graduates enrolled as a sophomore, junior, or senior in an undergraduate collegiate program.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

United Church Homes Scholarship

The United Church Homes Scholarship Fund, created in 2018, supports higher education for Marion area students who intend to pursue a career involving service to older citizens, including, but not limited to, gerontology,

The Charlotte W. Newcombe Doctoral Dissertation Fellowship supports Ph.D. candidates in the humanities and social sciences with a $31,000 stipend for their final year of dissertation writing. This prestigious fellowship encourages original research that engages with religion, ethics, and values. Candidates must have completed all coursework and preliminary exams, and be in the writing stage of their dissertation. The fellowship aims to alleviate living expenses and is open to students whose work significantly contributes to scholarly discussions in their fields.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Willie “Beaver” Troutman Football Scholarship

This scholarship, created in 2022, honors Willie “Beaver” Troutman and his longstanding coaching career in Marion County.

For generations to come, this scholarship will assist students financially to further their potential in academics and athletics.

The Willie ‘Beaver’ Troutman Football Scholarship is open to any student-athlete who attended a high school located in Marion County (Ohio) for at least 2 years, maintained a GPA of 2.5 or greater, and demonstrates volunteerism in the community and/or extraordinary financial need.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Y-Men’s Service Club Scholarship

The Y-Men’s Service Club Scholarship Fund supports students from any high school located in Marion County (Ohio) with a 3.0 grade point average or higher. Special consideration is given to family members of Club members in good standing.

The Y-Men created this scholarship with the intent of creating a permanent fund to help local students further their education and to create more awareness of the Y-Men’s Service Club.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Youth Engaged in Philanthropy Scholarship

The Youth Engaged in Philanthropy Scholarship Fund provides a college scholarship as part of Marion Community Foundation’s annual Scholarship Program. Each year the high school senior members participate in the selection process to recommend a scholarship recipient.

The scholarship awards are available to graduates and seniors from any high school in Marion who have been a resident of Marion County throughout their entire high school experience and have demonstrated commitment and dedication to community service, volunteerism, and philanthropy.

The General James H. Doolittle Scholarship, administered by the Communities Foundation of Texas, offers scholarships up to $5,000 for college juniors, seniors, or graduate students majoring in aerospace science, aeronautical engineering, or related fields. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.75 and have completed at least 52 college credit hours. This scholarship opportunity aims to support the educational aspirations of students pursuing careers in the aerospace industry.

The Gigi and Louise Gartner Scholarship provides scholarships of up to $10,000 for high school seniors and college students from Dallas County, TX. Applicants must pursue degrees in holistic medicine or related fields, maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and be U.S. citizens or legal residents. This initiative, supported by the Communities Foundation of Texas, aims to empower students in their educational journeys and promote careers in integrative health and wellness.

The Greystar Scholars Fund, managed by Communities Foundation of Texas, offers scholarships up to $5,000 for high school seniors and college students who are dependents of Greystar team members. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 and be pursuing a degree at accredited institutions in the U.S. Notably, dependents of high-ranking executives are excluded from eligibility. This initiative aims to support education and empower families within the Greystar community.

The Joan H. Hensley Scholarship, established by Communities Foundation of Texas, aims to support graduating high school seniors or past graduates from Dallas County. It provides scholarships for those pursuing degrees at accredited trade or vocational schools or community colleges. Eligible candidates are evaluated based on school and community involvement, leadership potential, financial need, and an essay response. This initiative has been fostering educational opportunities since 1953, contributing to the growth of thriving communities.

The Woody and Gayle Hunt - Aspen Institute Fellowship aims to empower exceptional leaders from the Borderplex Region by providing financial support for participation in leadership development programs. This initiative focuses on expanding Latino prosperity and fostering economic connections between the U.S., Latin America, and Spain. Fellows gain vital skills and networks through public events and seminars, positioning them to make significant contributions to their communities and advance the common good.

The Haynes Foundation offers Archival Grants to support cataloging and archival projects at libraries in Los Angeles. These grants focus on materials relevant to Southern California and public policy, considering factors like rarity and completeness. Notable past recipients include The Huntington Library and the Japanese American National Museum. Partial funding is typically provided, and preference is given to applicants securing matching funds from other sources. Interested applicants should notify the Foundation before submitting a proposal.

The Excellence in Medicine Awards, presented by the AMA Foundation, honor exemplary physicians and medical advocates committed to volunteerism, community engagement, and leadership. Since 2005, this prestigious program has celebrated over 100 honorees, recognizing their vital contributions to underserved populations. Awardees receive a $2,500 grant honorarium to support a nonprofit health organization of their choice, collectively awarding over $250,000 to enhance community health and promote equitable care across the nation.

The Occupational Safety and Health Education and Research Centers (T42) program, funded by the CDC, focuses on enhancing occupational safety through targeted education and training. By fostering interdisciplinary research and collaboration among academic institutions, this initiative aims to equip professionals with the necessary skills to address workplace health challenges. The program seeks to diversify the workforce and improve worker safety and well-being through outreach and continued education efforts.

The GM on Main Street Grant Program, led by Main Street America, focuses on enhancing the safety and vibrancy of downtowns through innovative road safety and traffic calming projects. Funded by General Motors, this program seeks transformative ideas that promote pedestrian safety and accessibility, making downtown areas more inviting for residents and visitors. Eligible applicants include non-profits and local governments in designated counties, with a strong emphasis on projects that are inclusive, feasible, and easily replicable.

The STEM Innovation Grant by Colocation America supports innovative STEM programs for K-12 students, offering up to $7,500 in funding. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and schools with STEM-specific programming. The grant aims to inspire youth through unique learning approaches and real-world applications of STEM knowledge. Interested parties must attend a mandatory informational call, with funding available for tools, curriculum development, and professional training.

The American Floral Endowment (AFE) offers educational grants aimed at enhancing the floriculture industry through innovative programs. With over $3 million funded since its inception, AFE supports initiatives targeting young people and addressing industry challenges. Grants range from $500 to $10,000 annually, encouraging multi-year projects that benefit broad geographical areas. Eligible applicants include community organizations focused on floriculture education within the U.S. AFE prioritizes programs with national scope and significant educational impact.