Best Human and Social Service Grants in Iowa

Iowa 501(c)(3) human and social service organizations can apply for the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation’s Corporate Giving Program for community-focused projects; awards up to US $1,000. Funding supports programs in areas like hunger, poverty, health, education, public safety, and community services, with an endorsement from a Perdue associate required.

Nonprofit and governmental organizations, or groups with a fiscal sponsor, can seek up to US $30,000 to launch or sustain programs improving quality of life in Linn County, Iowa. With a mission to strengthen nonprofits, Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation provides Iowa human and social service providers and other sectors with 12‑month program support, excluding capital projects.

Iowa human and social service nonprofits connected to Lutheran ministries can access funding through Rupert Dunklau Foundation to support higher education, health and human care, and faith-strengthening programs. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations include Lutheran educational entities, camps, congregations, and ministries in Nebraska and contiguous states, with health and human care requests limited to within 50 miles of Fremont, Nebraska.

Iowa human and social service nonprofits seeking event sponsorships or in-kind donations can access funding through Prairie Meadows; support is limited to organizations within the state. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) entities, units of political subdivisions, and similar nonprofits focused on social welfare, as well as groups in arts, education, and economic development.

Iowa 501(c)(3) human and social service nonprofits can seek more than US $1,000 to support community programs such as health, education, hunger relief, poverty services, public safety, and cultural initiatives. Focused on community betterment, the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation prioritizes areas where its associates live and work, including Iowa.

Iowa 501(c)(3) organizations providing human and social services, health, youth development, education, community betterment, or food insecurity programs can apply for flexible project funding from the W R Berkley Corporation Charitable Foundation. Eligible nonprofits in Central Iowa, as well as SW Minnesota and Eastern Nebraska, may receive one grant per year, reviewed twice annually.

Iowa human and social service organizations planning large-scale community projects can access funding for capital or signature initiatives, including arts, education, health, and economic development. Iowa groups can access funding through Prairie Meadows Race Track & Casino for transformative efforts that revitalize central Iowa and enhance quality of life, with awards ranging from US $100,000 to US $1,000,000.

The James B and Lois R Archer Charitable Foundation offers Smaller Grants of $10,000 or less to support initiatives in Arts and Culture, Civic Engagement, Education, Health, and Human Services. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and comply with eligibility criteria, including a one-year waiting period for reapplications. The foundation aims to have a significant impact on communities, especially in West Texas, while avoiding funding for specific exclusions such as endowments and fundraising events.

The James B and Lois R Archer Charitable Foundation offers Large Grants for requests exceeding $10,000. Focused on fostering positive change, the foundation supports initiatives in Arts and Culture, Civic Engagement, Education, Health, and Human Services. Eligibility includes 501(c)(3) organizations, while restrictions apply to consecutive grant cycles and non-qualifying purposes such as endowments and fundraising events. Organizations are encouraged to apply for various projects to enhance community well-being.

The Andrew Burgin Charitable Trust Grant supports organizations that are exempt under Section 501(c)(3) and focuses on charitable, educational, religious, and scientific purposes. With grant sizes ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 and an annual budget of approximately $55,000, the trust primarily serves Alabama organizations. Applications are accepted year-round, but must meet specific deadlines for review. This grant offers opportunities across diverse areas such as arts, education, health, and human services.

The Slomo and Cindy Silvian Foundation Grant supports a range of subjects including education, children's welfare, medical care, medical research, and Jewish philanthropic endeavors. Established in honor of Cindy Silvian, the foundation has awarded over $30 million since 2008. Applications are by invitation only, and organizations must meet specific eligibility criteria to be considered for funding. This year, the foundation allocated over $2.4 million to more than 110 organizations, highlighting its commitment to impactful philanthropy.

The Bertin Family Foundation Grants support 501(c)(3) public charities that align with the foundation's mission of community strengthening and compassion. Grant requests are accepted annually from July 1 to August 31, focusing on program or project support rather than general endowment. The foundation values measurable outcomes and responsible stewardship, and gives preference to organizations with Gold or Platinum status on Candid.

The North Lee Community Foundation Grant provides funding up to $5,000 to qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofits in North Lee County, Iowa. This grant supports projects in arts, culture, education, health, and community betterment, emphasizing practical solutions and community engagement. Eligible organizations can apply for recurring grants but must submit one application per year. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that demonstrate community impact, leadership development, and collaboration among diverse groups.

The Lee County Charitable Fund offers an Impact Grant of up to $25,000 for nonprofit organizations in Lee County, Iowa, focused on immediate community benefits. Eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits can apply annually, but those who receive the grant cannot apply the following year. Instead, they may seek a smaller grant of up to $7,500. This funding supports projects in arts, culture, education, healthcare, and human services.

The Community Foundation of Des Moines County Grant provides funding ranging from $500 to $2,500 to qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofits and governmental agencies in Des Moines County, Iowa. The grants support projects in arts, culture, education, healthcare, and human services. Exceptional needs may warrant larger amounts. Organizations are limited to one application per project, ensuring focused support for local initiatives that enhance community well-being.

The Eichacker + Lofton Grant Fund, established by the Keokuk Area Community Foundation, aims to enhance the quality of life in the Tri-State Area, covering Hancock County, Illinois, Clark County, Missouri, and Lee County, Iowa. This fund supports nonprofit organizations focusing on arts, culture, education, health, and community betterment. Grants up to $5,000 are available to initiate projects that address local needs, promote collaboration, and foster leadership and self-sufficiency within the community.

The Athene Charitable Foundation focuses on corporate social responsibility through community involvement, aiming to create positive social impacts in education, health, human services, and the environment. Their initiatives include partnerships, employee volunteering, and donations aligned with their mission. They prioritize organizations that support diversity and inclusion while ensuring compliance with their non-discrimination policies. Eligible entities must be registered 501(c)(3) organizations or equivalent, enhancing community welfare where Athene employees live and work.

The Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine offers the annual CFGM: Impact Grant to support non-profit organizations enhancing the quality of life in Muscatine County. With various funds available, including the County Endowment Re-Granting Program and others targeting specific needs like mental disabilities and homelessness, grants can reach up to $117,888.27. Applicants must be non-profits, schools, or government units serving the region. Each program has a $10,000 limit and requires final reports within 10 months.

The Competitive Donor-Advised Funds - World Class Industries Grant, offered by the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation, supports nonprofit organizations in Linn County, Iowa. With funding ranging from $500 to $10,000, grants prioritize basic health services, education aligned with Iowa Core Standards, and capital improvements. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and those with fiscal sponsors. The grant aims to enhance community well-being through impactful philanthropy and collaboration.

The Harry Kramer Memorial Fund Grant supports U.S. charitable organizations that assist individuals and institutions in Israel, focusing on welfare, healthcare for the sick and aged, and education in South Florida. Founded by Harry A. Kramer, a successful entrepreneur and veteran, the fund reflects his deep commitment to charitable causes. Organizations must qualify under Section 501(c)(3) and meet specific eligibility criteria to apply for funding, ensuring that aid reaches those in need.

The Joan M. Wismer Foundation, established in 2001, honors the legacy of Joan Marilynn Wismer, who was dedicated to charitable work and community service. The foundation focuses on improving lives through education, youth development, safety, humanitarian services, and medical research. It primarily supports IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and churches, while emphasizing the importance of sustainable funding and effective financial management in its grant-making process.

The PCIF Community Impact Grants, offered by the Community Foundation for Western Iowa, support innovative projects that enhance the quality of life for all residents in Pottawattamie County. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt nonprofits and government entities. The grants focus on various sectors such as arts, education, health, and community improvement. In the last funding cycle, 42 grants totaling $65,364 were awarded, emphasizing the Foundation's commitment to fostering impactful community initiatives.

The Clarence W. Winter Charitable Trust, established from Mr. Winter's Will, provides annual grants of $3,000 to $5,000 to support tax-exempt organizations focused on charitable, religious, scientific, literary, or educational purposes. While there are no geographic restrictions, the Trust prioritizes organizations in Bucks County, PA. With a commitment to community betterment, Mr. Winter's legacy continues to support impactful initiatives for years to come.

The United Way of the Midlands’ (UWM) Community Care Fund Grant aims to tackle social and economic disparities in the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro area. This initiative supports a variety of impactful programs, backed by over 40,000 donors. UWM emphasizes equity and community engagement in its funding decisions, ensuring that resources are allocated where they are most needed. The grant process is competitive, with applicants encouraged to focus on specific health and human service areas.

The Shelby County Foundation Grant, managed by the Omaha Community Foundation, supports projects enhancing the quality of life in Shelby County. With two application cycles each year, this grant aims to fund initiatives in civic engagement, culture, health, education, and social services. It invites proposals for capital support and program support, ensuring a lasting impact on community needs. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. CST on the specified deadlines.

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Page County Community Foundation Grant

The Page County Community Foundation, working in partnership with the Clarinda Foundation and the Greater Shenandoah Foundation, aims to improve the quality of life in Page County by supporting community needs in the areas of civic engagement, culture, health, education, and social services. The objective of its grant programs is to fund projects that will have a permanent impact on, and in, Page County. As an affiliate of the Omaha Community Foundation, the Page County Community Foundation was established in 2004.

The Montgomery County Community Foundation Grant, established in 1998, supports community projects in areas such as civic engagement, health, education, and culture. With two application cycles each year, this grant aims to enhance the quality of life in Montgomery County through impactful projects. Applicants must submit their proposals online by the deadline, as no extensions are granted. Funding can be utilized for capital support or specific program activities.