Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits in California

Community Foundation for Northeast Florida

The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida connects people who care with causes that matter. Since 1964, we have served the citizens of Duval, St. Johns, Nassau, Baker, Clay, and Putnam counties through a range of charitable and civic activities, while helping individual donors achieve their philanthropic goals. We believe in Giving Back. Forever Forward.

Scholarships

Thanks to generous donors, The Community Foundation offers several scholarships each year that benefit students in Northeast Florida who are seeking post-secondary degrees.

Byon M. Morris Scholarship

The Byon M. Morris Scholarship will provide $4,800 ($1,200 per year for 4 years) to support tuition, books, fees, room & board, and degree-related expenses for one graduating senior who has attained Scouting’s highest ranks. One Eagle Scout (Boy Scouts) or one Gold Award winner (Girl Scouts), who demonstrates an aptitude and desire to succeed, will receive the scholarship. In selecting the successful candidate, the review committee will consider academic achievements, leadership experience, desire for personal growth and financial need.

The Bentley and Roberta Pollard Family Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of West Texas, honors the legacy of Bentley and Roberta Pollard. This scholarship supports Gold Star families and families of U.S. military veterans seeking higher education. It aims to empower students from Lubbock County high schools, emphasizing financial need and the importance of education in building a brighter future for the community. Over 100 scholarships are awarded annually to deserving individuals.

The Simons Postdoctoral Fellowships in Plant Biology, offered by the Simons Foundation, aim to support early-career researchers pursuing fundamental studies in plant biology. Candidates with diverse backgrounds, including engineering and computational modeling, are encouraged to apply. This flexible program enables collaborations between disciplines, fostering innovative approaches to plant science. Eligible applicants should have obtained their Ph.D. within the last three years and may include both U.S. citizens and foreign researchers. Awards will be granted to nonprofit research institutions.

The Golden Trowel Award, presented by the Archaeological Institute of America, recognizes the local society with the highest proportional membership increase over the past year. This prestigious award highlights the vital role that local societies play in promoting archaeology and supporting the AIA's mission. By fostering community engagement and growth, the award encourages societies to enhance their programs and initiatives, ultimately enriching the field of archaeology.

Northern New York Community Foundation

Since 1929, the Northern New York Community Foundation has invested in improving and enriching the quality of life for all in communities across Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties.

Through partnerships with businesses and organizations, charitable foundations, and generous families and individual donors, the Community Foundation awards grants and scholarships from an endowment and collection of funds that benefit the region. Its commitment to donors helps individuals achieve their charitable objectives now and for generations to come by preserving and honoring legacies of community philanthropy while inspiring others.

Brittany Walroth Memorial Scholarship

The person, for whom the scholarship is named, Brittany Marie Walrath, was a 2004 graduate of General Brown High School. She was a cheerleader for the GB Lions since fifth grade with the Pop Warner. Her squad took the Championship trophy in 2003. She was an energetic, loving, hardworking young lady who was tragically killed in a car accident in July of 2010. Brittany was a wonderful daughter, friend, wife and aunt and cared a great deal about people. These traits lead her into a job of helping with children.

Brittany worked for the YMCA in the SACC program starting in her junior year until she was called to work at Fort Drum's Child Development Center in 2006. Brittany was a positive role model and spoke of helping children with learning disabilities, like herself. Through Brittany's education, supportive services were essential to allowing her to reach her to reach her academic potential. Therefore, we know she would be honored for this scholarship to be given in memory of her. We would like to encourage an energetic individual who cares to follow their dreams.

This scholarship fund has been instituted in her memory. Money raised from donations and events has been deposited in an interest bearing account.

This scholarship will be awarded annually. The annual award for the Brittany Marie Walrath Memorial Scholarship Fund will be $500. 

The Strengthening & Sustaining Mobile Healthcare Grant Program, offered by the Mobile Healthcare Association, aims to enhance emergency preparedness for mobile health clinics. This annual grant supports activities such as developing action plans, training staff, and ensuring operational readiness for crises like hurricanes and floods. By facilitating these initiatives, the program works to reduce health disparities and promote equitable access to quality healthcare for all communities.

The Dr. Glenn Neil Love Medical Scholarship, established in 2014, provides annual financial assistance to individuals pursuing medical training and education. It aims to support nontraditional applicants currently employed in healthcare who demonstrate financial need and a commitment to advancing their skills. Priority is given to those seeking additional certifications or training to enhance their expertise in the medical field.

The Beaufort Jasper Water & Sewer Authority Scholarship, established in 2024, offers financial support to students from Beaufort and Jasper Counties, South Carolina. This scholarship is both merit-based and need-based, aiming to assist deserving students in pursuing their post-secondary education. Funded by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, it reflects a commitment to fostering educational opportunities in the region.

The RPAC Fundraising Grants, offered by the National Association of Realtors, support state and local associations in organizing fundraising events aimed at boosting RPAC contributions. These grants require a fundraising goal three times the amount requested, ensuring tangible results. The initiative emphasizes developing detailed fundraising plans that comply with state laws regarding corporate treasury funds. This program is vital for enhancing RPAC participation and advancing property ownership advocacy.

The John A. Kilpatrick Memorial Scholarship, established in 2016 by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, supports qualified recipients pursuing post-secondary education. This scholarship is specifically for current or former members of the U.S. Marine Corps who have been stationed at Parris Island, SC, with a preference for applicants who have lived in New Jersey. The foundation has dedicated over $125 million to enhance the Lowcountry community since its inception.

The Community Foundation of NCW is a tax-exempt philanthropic organization that helps individuals, families, businesses, and agencies support charitable causes throughout Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties.

Silver Star Chapter #93 Order of the Eastern Star Scholarship

The Order of the Eastern Star is the largest fraternal organization in the world to which both women and men may belong. The organization’s membership is comprised of women and men who sincerely reflect the spirit of fraternal love and the desire to work together for good. Silver Star Chapter #93 established this scholarship as a means of fulfilling the mission of the organization to support the local community and benefit fellow mankind.

The Community Foundation of NCW is a tax-exempt philanthropic organization that helps individuals, families, businesses, and agencies support charitable causes throughout Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties.

Grace Ekman Whitley Scholarship

Grace Ekman Whitley taught school in Leavenworth, Manson, Tonasket and Wenatchee High Schools. She had no children, but she loved the children in her classrooms as her own. This scholarship was established at the Community Foundation in order to support graduating seniors from Cascade, Manson, Tonasket and Wenatchee High Schools. Each year, the committee seeks to award students who demonstrate perseverance and commitment, work ethic, strong academic improvement, motivation, and who have overcome disadvantages.

The Community Foundation of NCW is a tax-exempt philanthropic organization that helps individuals, families, businesses, and agencies support charitable causes throughout Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties.

National Welch’s Fred Killian Memorial Scholarship

The National Welch’s Fred Killian Memorial Scholarship was established in 2007 by the National Grape Cooperative and Welch’s to honor the memory of Fred Killian, a Washington State grower.

The Community Foundation of NCW is a tax-exempt philanthropic organization that helps individuals, families, businesses, and agencies support charitable causes throughout Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties.

W.R. "Bill" Asplund Scholarship

W.R. “Bill” Asplund (1932-2022) was a well-loved teacher in the Science Department at Wenatchee High School (WHS) from 1963 through 1987. He was a mentor to many students, instilling an appreciation for chemistry, scientific curiosity, and the natural world. He also introduced many to the outdoors as an advisor to the WHS Alpine Club, and later as an outdoor sports retailer in Wenatchee.

His childhood was harsh; he was homeless for a time. This gave him a life-long appreciation for those who helped him become a teacher and an advocate for wilderness conservation.

Eagles Soar Scholarship Fund

Tribute:

The scholarship was established by the Golden Eagle Club, Inc. in 2021. It is comprised of graduates of Hokes Bluff High School that have been out of school for 50 plus years. The award is made possible by donations and proceeds of a wind turbine in Texas via 1951 Hokes Bluff graduate, Mr. Don Street.

Award:

The scholarship benefits individuals pursuing a certificate, associate's degree, bachelor’s degree, or a State of Alabama-approved workforce training program. This one-time award is for either part-time or full-time enrolled students to attend any accredited institution of higher learning in the United States.

The Community Foundation will project and allocate the assets available for scholarship awards depending on the Fund's annual income. This Scholarship is strictly funded based on available assets. The award is renewable and may include tuition, institutional housing, books, and fees. Due to the renewable nature of the Fund, it may not be available on an annual basis. 

The Community Foundation of NCW is a tax-exempt philanthropic organization that helps individuals, families, businesses, and agencies support charitable causes throughout Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties.

Cascade and Chelan School Districts ELL Scholarship

The Cascade and Chelan School Districts ELL (English as a second language) Scholarship provides financial support for students who have passed the Washington Language Proficiency Test (WLPT) and are pursuing further education.

The Community Foundation of NCW is a tax-exempt philanthropic organization that helps individuals, families, businesses, and agencies support charitable causes throughout Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties.

Cathryn "Kate" George Frechen Scholarship

The Cathryn “Kate” Goerge Frechen Scholarship Fund was established in 1999 by Kay Sparks, niece of Cathryn “Kate” Goerge Frechen in her aunt’s memory. This scholarship supports graduating seniors from Pewamo-Westphalia Community Schools seeking further education in an accredited educational program in the US. The committee seeks to award a promising student who demonstrates financial need and potential scholastic ability (not necessarily demonstrated solely by grades).

Marjorie and Robert Schaumleffel Rotary Scholarship

This scholarship, in memory of Robert and Marjorie Schaumleffel, is for a graduating senior of Olean, Portville, Archbishop Walsh, or Allegany-Limestone who is an active member of of the Rotary Interact Club and displays a value in "service above self."

The Society of Family Planning aims to document the efficacy, safety, and acceptability of medication abortion up to 97 days, addressing a critical gap in abortion care. With medication abortion comprising 63% of all abortions in the U.S. in 2023, this funding opportunity seeks to generate vital data beyond the FDA's 70-day approval, promoting evidence-informed and person-centered clinical practices for those needing abortion care later in pregnancy.

The W. M. Keck Foundation's Research Grant Program funds innovative medical research and engineering projects that challenge existing paradigms and explore new territories. Eligible applicants include research universities and independent institutes. Grants support groundbreaking technologies and methodologies, with emphasis on high-risk projects that could lead to transformative impacts. However, funding excludes general operating expenses and grants to individuals. The Foundation awards grants biannually, with an emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches.

The Rotary Club Scholarship, administered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, offers two $750 scholarships annually to assist deserving students in pursuing higher education. Established in 1987, this nonprofit organization has provided over $55,000 in scholarships each year to Beatrice High School seniors. Priority is given to students exemplifying Rotary's ideals, while children of Rotary members are ineligible. This scholarship supports undergraduate studies, ensuring financial assistance is accessible when needed.

The Longview Foundation's Internationalizing Teacher Preparation Grants aim to enhance teachers' global competencies through collaborative projects and online education. Established in 1966, the foundation prioritizes partnerships among institutions and the integration of global perspectives into teacher training. Successful proposals will demonstrate significant outreach, sustainable practices beyond the funding period, and collaboration with state education agencies. Grants range from $10,000 for single institutions to $30,000 for multi-institution initiatives, fostering a broader impact on K-12 education.

The Reilly, Lucile V, Scholarship, presented by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, offers $500 to deserving students who demonstrate leadership, service, and academic involvement. Established in 1987, the Foundation supports Beatrice High School seniors with over $55,000 in scholarships annually. This award is available for undergraduate studies, ensuring that students in need can access higher education funding over a five-year period if necessary.

The Beyond Print Grant Program by The Lenfest Institute aims to support independent local newspapers in transitioning from print to digital formats. With funding of up to $400,000, the program encourages innovative strategies to enhance digital sustainability and engage younger audiences. Eligible applicants must demonstrate leadership commitment and focus on specified areas like communications, customer service, and digital revenue. This initiative is vital for fostering new revenue models and ensuring access to local journalism in the digital age.

The Youth Empowerment Program Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides a $1,000 scholarship to a graduating high school senior who has been a member of the Youth Empowerment Project for at least one year. Applicants must submit an essay, a letter of recommendation from a project sponsor, and a transcript. This initiative aims to support students pursuing higher education at accredited institutions while fostering community engagement.

Community Foundation for Northern Virginia

Founded in 1978, the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia is a tax-exempt trusted public charity that advances equity through philanthropy and community leadership. Its work is guided by a strategic plan that advances four key priorities for the region:

• Social and Economic Mobility
• Opportunities for All
• Inclusive Systems of Economic Growth
• Community Resilience

Booz Allen Hamilton Vision Scholarship Fund

In keeping with its commitment to contribute to the excellence of the future work force, Booz Allen Hamilton has established the Vision Scholarship Program. Under this program, legal dependent children of Booz Allen Hamilton employees located anywhere around the world who are pursuing an undergraduate college degree can apply for a scholarship to help defray their tuition expenses. Historically, the Vision Scholarship has been awarded to students who are at the top of their class academically and have a high level of engagement in extracurricular and community activities.

 The scholarship is renewable for up to four years of undergraduate education.

Archaeological Institute of America

The AIA is North America's largest and oldest nonprofit organization dedicated to archaeology. The Institute advances awareness, education, fieldwork, preservation, publication, and research of archaeological sites and cultural heritage throughout the world. 

Grants & Awards

The AIA’s mission includes supporting and promoting archaeological research and its dissemination. To that end, the AIA offers a variety of scholarships, fellowships, and grants for excavation, research, publication, and site preservation.

Each year, the Institute also presents a number of awards to archaeologists, educators, authors, and others whose work has had a positive impact on the field of archaeology.

Anna Marguerite McCann Award for Fieldwork Reports

In keeping with the Code of Ethics of the AIA, which emphasizes the need for archaeologists to publish field research, the Anna Marguerite McCann Award for Fieldwork Reports recognizes an outstanding monograph that presents results from an archaeological field project (e.g. excavation and/or survey), as recommended by the Committee, in time for presentation of the award at the Annual Meeting of the Institute. Authors/editors of successful nominations must join the AIA as a member, if they are not already one, once they receive the award. For multi-authored or multi-edited volumes, this requirement applies only to the primary author/primary editor/principal investigator.

AIA members are encouraged to suggest publications worthy of the award by filling out the Nomination Form. Authors and publishers may also bring their books to the committee’s attention by filling out the Nomination Form and sending an electronic copy (eBook or PDF) for distribution to the committee. Publishers should nominate no more than two (2) books per year and should ensure that the books meet the criteria of the award. Books may be submitted for the award only once, and should not be re-submitted unless specifically requested by the committee.