Best Community Services Grants

The Hawkins Charitable Foundation Grant, established in honor of Allen W. and Gladys Hawkins, aims to support community betterment projects in Osawatomie, Kansas. The foundation prioritizes grants for organizations classified as 501(c)(3) public charities that operate for charitable purposes. Applications are reviewed by local trustees to ensure resources are directed to areas of critical need. The foundation does not fund requests outside Osawatomie or those aimed at influencing legislation or benefiting individuals.

The BGCF365 Grants, initiated by the Blue Grass Community Foundation, empower emerging philanthropists to collectively fund nonprofit projects that dismantle barriers to employment, transportation, and housing for families in Fayette County. In 2024, grants will focus on enhancing resilience among youth aged 0-22. Members contribute $365 annually, pooling resources to award $30,000 to selected organizations. This initiative fosters community engagement and aims to improve living conditions for all in Lexington.

The Ocean Reef Community Foundation's Community Grants Program supports local charities addressing community issues and fostering self-sufficiency. Grants focus on innovative projects that improve community welfare, with preference given to those involving partnerships and additional funding sources. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities and demonstrate a clear impact on the defined areas. The program prioritizes initiatives that enhance services, empower individuals, and address root causes of challenges faced by the community.

The Quailwood Fund, established by Jonathan Schor, aims to enhance community life in Red Rock, NY, through grants for public services, conservation, and educational scholarships. The fund supports nonprofit organizations and public entities serving Red Rock residents, with awards typically ranging from $500 to $10,000, and up to $20,000 for significant projects. A 1:1 matching requirement applies, ensuring community investment in grant-funded initiatives.

The Fund for Columbia County, established by Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, offers Community Impact grants to support innovative projects that enhance the quality of life for residents, particularly low-income and underserved populations. Grants range from $2,500 to $7,500 and focus on areas such as youth development, economic equity, and community engagement. This initiative encourages collaborative efforts among organizations to maximize impact and resource efficiency in Columbia County.

The Papal Foundation Grants provide essential funding to Roman Catholic charities and educational organizations in developing nations. These grants are endorsed by the Holy See and support various projects, including shelters for the homeless, hospitals, and pro-life programs. Since its inception in 1988, over $70 million has been awarded to help communities in need, showcasing the Foundation's commitment to responding to urgent needs and sustaining the Holy Father's mission globally.

The South Georgia Legacy Fund Grant, offered by the Community Foundation of South Georgia, aims to empower local nonprofits addressing community needs. Annually, it allocates $30,000 across grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000. The fund prioritizes proposals that demonstrate a solid operational plan, community support, and leadership commitment. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities based in the service area, excluding initiatives reliant on ongoing financial support from the Foundation.

The Arizona Community Foundation of Yuma, established in 1993, champions enduring philanthropy to enhance Yuma County. With over $19 million in assets and more than $10 million granted since inception, ACF connects community needs with passionate donors. Last year alone, it invested over $1 million in local projects. Eligible organizations can apply for funding to build capacity, support direct services, and cover operating costs, fostering sustainable impact across the region.

SECURA Insurance Companies Charitable Fund Grants support local nonprofit organizations in the Fox Valley area that provide essential services such as food, clothing, shelter, arts, education, and environmental initiatives. Grants are awarded by SECURA’s Community Commitment Committee, which evaluates applications based on community impact. Eligible organizations include public charities and government units serving the Foundation’s service area, while ineligible projects include political affiliations and general operational costs.

The Three Rivers Community Foundation offers an Annual Grant Cycle aimed at supporting nonprofits in Benton and Franklin counties. Grants range from $500 to over $10,000, with an average award of $4,000. Eligible applicants include 501c3 organizations. The foundation focuses on program/project grants and impact grants, which provide flexible funding to organizations that have demonstrated effective use of prior funding. Certain ineligible expenses include capital campaigns and political activities.

Purpose

The Bullis Fund was created from the estate of Jeanette ‘Nettie’ Bullis, an astute businesswoman whose family settled in Macedon in the late 1830s. Grants from income generated by the endowment fund are recommended by a committee of Wayne County representatives to reflect Miss Bullis’ interest in improving the quality of life of residents of Wayne County, especially in the Town of Macedon or within the area served by the Palmyra-Macedon Central School District. Miss Bullis believed strongly in providing a “hand up” not a “hand out.” Therefore, most grants require a matching component.

Funding Criteria

All criteria must be met for a request to be considered. Applications must:

• Show how the project/program provides direct or indirect benefit to residents of southwest Wayne County;
• Indicate how the project/program makes southwest Wayne County significantly better and/or how it has significant community-wide impact;
• Indicate matching or leveraged support from other constituencies.
• Provide evidence of ongoing stability and financial sustainability for the funded projects. How projects will be funded in the future is a key consideration.

Organizations are urged to participate in one of a variety of programs through Causewave Community Partners. These programs are designed to help nonprofit organizations grow their impact and could include: communications, strategic planning, board development, and fundraising support.

The Lincoln County Community Foundation Grant Cycle aims to enhance local initiatives by funding projects in key areas such as child services, education, food insecurity, housing, mental health, and utility assistance. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations that serve Lincoln County residents. The foundation prioritizes measurable results and effective use of funds, while ineligible projects include capital campaigns and direct support of individuals. This grant cycle reflects a commitment to community improvement and innovative solutions.

The West Elk Community Fund Grant supports nonprofit organizations in Hotchkiss, Paonia, and Crawford, with a focus on addressing food insecurity and enhancing volunteer engagement. Established in 2018, it has allocated over $117,000 to local nonprofits. Eligible applicants must have IRS Tax Exempt status and be compliant with Colorado's laws. The grant aims to foster community development and support vital services in the North Fork Valley through collaborative efforts and financial assistance.

Leo Layette Livingston

Leo L. Livingston was a devoted civic leader and local business man in the Taylor community, serving on the Johns Community Hospital until his retirement in February 1988. He served on the Johns Community Hospital board of directors for 21 years, including ten years in the capacity of board president. He is credited with having had a major influence in getting the current hospital built, both in fundraising and directing construction. Born in Winters, Texas on February 24, 1913, he and his wife first came to Taylor in 1940 with Texas Power and Light Company. He later served as an accountant at Taylor Refining Company and in 1949, he began his long-standing association with Southwestern Life Insurance Company. In 1957, he earned the designation as Charter Life Underwriter. From the onset, Leo Livingston immersed himself in community service having served as chairman of the Red Cross Drive, the Community Chest Drive, and was president during the organization's change to the United Fund in 1959. He served as president of the Taylor Chamber of Commerce in 1955 and was director of the Industrial Development and Greeters Committees of the Chamber. Mr. Livingston was also a past member, director and president of the Taylor Kiwanis Club and served as president of the Taylor Country Club. An active member of First United Methodist Church, Mr. Livingston served his church in numerous capacities including Sunday school superintendent, chairman of the church board, and various committees. In 1975 he was honored as Taylor's Outstanding Citizen by the Taylor Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Livingston served on the Taylor ISD Board of Education for five years and as its chairman, was involved with bond elections and the construction of the Taylor high school facility.

Leo L. Livingston Fund Benefiting Taylor, Texas Nonprofit Organizations

The Community Foundation of the Brazos Valley, headquartered in Bryan – Texas, administers a charitable endowment fund that was established in memory of Leo L. Livingston by Doris Livingston to benefit nonprofit organizations in the Taylor, Texas community. A local Grants Review Committee comprised of Taylor residents and business leaders is accepting applications from nonprofit organizations for grants up to $10,000 for programs that support the Livingston's goals of continually improving the quality of life in Taylor, Texas.

The Grants Review Committee will consider grants to:

• Support effective, established programs;
• Help launch innovative, new programs; or
• Fund unique capital needs that will increase an organization's capacity.

The CFBV Annual Community Grants, offered by the Community Foundation of the Brazos Valley, support charitable nonprofit organizations across seven regions. Applications are accepted year-round, with a review by the Grants Committee in October. Awards are announced during the Foundation’s Annual Philanthropy/Day of Giving Celebration in November/December. Eligible organizations must have I.R.S. 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, while funding cannot be used for administrative expenses or ongoing program costs.

The Waccamaw Community Trust Fund provides competitive grants of up to $5,000 to support initiatives that improve the lives of individuals and families in Horry and Georgetown counties. The Trust prioritizes projects that address emerging needs and foster innovative solutions, while encouraging sustainability beyond the grant period. Eligible organizations include public charities and government agencies that do not discriminate based on age, race, or disability. However, applications for certain purposes, such as political lobbying, are discouraged.

The Taylor County Charitable Interest Fund Grant supports philanthropic initiatives in Taylor County, West Virginia. Managed by the Your Community Foundation of North Central West Virginia, this grant is available to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations and public institutions, including schools. It aims to empower local donors to contribute to community welfare and address pressing social issues, ensuring that charitable funds are utilized effectively for the benefit of residents in the area.

The Greater Harrisburg Foundation Upstream Grant aims to foster community improvement by funding innovative projects that address systemic issues at their source. This grant supports nonprofit organizations in Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Lebanon, and Perry Counties, allowing them to implement creative solutions in areas such as education, health, and environmental stewardship. By focusing on upstream interventions, the foundation encourages a proactive approach to social change, ultimately enhancing community resilience and well-being.

The Catholic Foundation: Philanthropy Fund Grant supports Catholic organizations in the Diocese of Dallas by providing essential funding for impactful projects. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that promote sustainability and community enhancement, ensuring that funded programs can thrive independently after the grant period. Eligibility is restricted to recognized Catholic entities, while ineligible projects include individual pursuits and those lacking community endorsement. This grant represents a commitment to fostering charitable giving and stewardship within the Catholic community.

The Elizabeth Morse Genius Foundation provides funding to support charitable, educational, religious, and scientific initiatives that benefit the Central Florida area. Established in 1959, the foundation has supported various institutions, including the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum and Rollins College. Grants can range from a few thousand dollars to over $1 million, with a focus on organizations exempt from federal taxation under 501(c)(3). Organizations may apply once per funding cycle, but repetitive funding is discouraged.

The SBG Partnership offers Community Grants to enhance neighborhood projects in Baltimore, with funding tiers ranging from $2,000 to $100,000. Eligibility includes non-profit and community organizations serving local residents. The program aims to fulfill the promise made to Baltimoreans upon the introduction of slot machine gambling, ensuring resources are directed towards community improvement and development. Interested applicants should review specific grant categories and eligibility criteria to align their projects with the funding opportunities.

The TD Charitable Foundation has been dedicated to improving community quality of life since 2002, contributing over $254 million to non-profit organizations. They fund initiatives aligned with their corporate citizenship goals, focusing on Better Health, Connected Communities, Financial Security, and Vibrant Planet. Special consideration is given to programs that support inclusivity for diverse and historically underserved communities. Their commitment to enhancing lives through targeted grants reflects their core values and social responsibility.

The Delaplaine Foundation Grant is a private family foundation based in Frederick, Maryland, dedicated to enriching communities through support for non-profit organizations focused on cultural arts, education, health, historical preservation, and spiritual enlightenment. With a commitment to local impact, it primarily awards funding in Frederick County, while also considering applications from nearby states and beyond. Eligible organizations must be recognized as tax-exempt public charities under IRS regulations.

The Louise R. Lester Foundation Grant aims to foster positive change in communities by supporting nonprofit organizations in Virginia. It prioritizes areas of need often overlooked by local charities, ensuring resources are allocated effectively. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations, demonstrating sound financial management. Ineligible entities include individuals and political organizations. The Foundation seeks to build strong relationships with grantees through communication and understanding of their challenges, focusing on impactful contributions to society.

The Douglas-Dornan Fund Grant, established in honor of Brian Douglas and Wythe Dornan, aims to enhance the health, education, and welfare of individuals in Southeast Alaska. Grants support 501(c)(3) organizations, childcare institutions, and programs that benefit children, youth, and elders. The foundation prioritizes organizations that demonstrate need for services or training, while excluding personal development grants. Through community involvement, this fund fosters a supportive environment for diverse groups in the region.

The Plunketts Creek Township Foundation Fund was founded in 1944 to “promote and maintain a charitable and benevolent organization in Plunketts Creek Township to assist the needy and to foster the moral, educational, recreational and social interest of the people living in and adjacent to the said township.

The Cape Ann Community Foundation is offering grants ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 to support projects that enhance the quality of life in the Cape Ann region, including Essex, Gloucester, Manchester-by-the-Sea, and Rockport. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) charities and local government entities focused on regional promotion, economic development, and workforce training. This initiative aims to foster community growth and vitality through impactful projects.