Best Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits in Connecticut

The Mary Katherine "Katy" Williamson Scholarship Fund honors the memory of Katy Williamson, established by her family after her passing in 2005. This scholarship supports students pursuing degrees in healthcare, both human and animal, at accredited institutions in the U.S. Recipients may renew the award annually for up to four years, contingent on maintaining eligibility. The fund reflects Katy's love for animals and nature, aiming to empower future generations to contribute positively to society.

The Rotary Club of Davenport offers the Scholastic/Leadership Scholarship for graduating seniors from local high schools. With four awards available, each providing up to $3,000 annually, recipients can receive a total of $12,000 over four years. To maintain funding, students must uphold a minimum 2.7 GPA and complete 24 credit hours each year. An interview is required for applicants, who must also demonstrate community involvement and a commitment to college preparatory studies.

The Stephanie Gorsh Memorial Scholarship offers up to $800 to students in need, specifically targeting graduates from Scott County, IA. Eligible applicants must enroll in an accredited two- or four-year institution or a trade school, demonstrate financial need, and have a minimum GPA of 2.25. Community service is also a key factor in the selection process. This scholarship is not renewable, making it a one-time financial aid opportunity.

The Victoria E. & Randal D. Miller Scholarship is a need-based scholarship awarded every four years, with the next award scheduled for 2026. It offers up to $1,000 annually and is renewable for up to four years contingent on maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and preference is given to students affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

The Sponsors Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, has awarded over $2.5 million in scholarships over 20 years to support financially disadvantaged students. This initiative continues the legacy of George Langstaff, who aimed to enhance educational opportunities and economic prospects for youth in Middle Tennessee and Allen County, Kentucky. By fostering collective philanthropy, the fund empowers young individuals to pursue higher education and contribute positively to their communities.

The John W. Wilks, M.D. Excellence in Science Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, provides financial assistance to deserving students pursuing careers in the medical field. Eligible applicants include graduating seniors from Roanoke Valley area high schools or individuals continuing medical studies at the graduate level, demonstrating financial need and academic merit. This scholarship aims to support educational pursuits and foster excellence in healthcare.

The Adapted PE/Activity Graduate Student of the Year Award recognizes outstanding graduate students in adapted physical education and physical activity who have made significant contributions to the lives of individuals with disabilities. Sponsored by the Society of Health and Physical Educators, this award emphasizes leadership, dedication, and commitment to inclusive practices in physical education. It aims to inspire future professionals in the field while promoting excellence in adapted physical activity and disability sport.

The Jean L. Price Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, supports underprivileged students from the Roanoke Valley. Eligible applicants include graduating seniors and full-time college students who demonstrate financial need. This scholarship aims to alleviate the financial burdens facing these deserving students, ensuring they have access to educational opportunities. As a vital resource, the scholarship reflects the Foundation's commitment to fostering academic success and community development.

The Quad Cities Mexican American Organization Scholarship, administered by the Quad Cities Community Foundation, offers up to $1,000 to students of Hispanic descent pursuing post-secondary education. Applicants must maintain a GPA of at least 2.0 and can apply for renewal. This scholarship aims to support educational advancement in the Quad Cities region, reflecting a commitment to fostering academic success among underrepresented communities.

The Hooker Educational Fund Community Scholarships support deserving undergraduate students in Henry County or Martinsville, Virginia. Established by the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, these scholarships aim to assist students who demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5, and show capability for college-level studies. The foundation has been a key philanthropic organization since 1988, managing numerous endowment funds to benefit the local community.

The Paul and Beverly Eckert Scholarship, offered by the Quad Cities Community Foundation, provides financial support of up to $4,000 annually to graduating seniors from select Davenport high schools. This scholarship is renewable for up to four years, assisting students pursuing their education at accredited colleges, universities, or trade schools. The foundation is dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities and fostering community growth through generous donor contributions.

The Benny Summerlin Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, offers financial assistance to deserving students from Franklin County High School pursuing undergraduate degrees. Established to support capable individuals, this scholarship emphasizes academic potential and financial need. The foundation, active since 1988, administers various scholarships to uplift the educational aspirations of local youth. For more information on eligibility and application processes, interested students should contact the foundation directly.

The Frank W. (Bo) Rogers Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, offers scholarships to graduating seniors from Roanoke Valley high schools. Eligible students must enroll in accredited colleges, demonstrate financial need, and show commitment to community service. Special consideration is given to applicants with a parent employed by Woods Rogers, PLC. The Foundation aims to support deserving students and help them achieve their higher education goals.

The BACKstage Grant Fall 2025, offered by the United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT), provides funding for secondary education theatre teachers to enhance their professional development. Grants support various expenses, including workshop registrations, travel, and educational supplies. Eligible applicants must be secondary school educators teaching theatre-related subjects, and all funded activities must be completed within a year. This initiative fosters growth and innovation in the performing arts community.

The Morency Family Scholarship supports young adults from foster care backgrounds in pursuing higher education or vocational training. This scholarship aims to assist those who may face financial barriers after high school graduation. With a focus on applicants from specific counties in Illinois and Iowa, the scholarship provides up to $2,000 annually and is renewable until graduation or age 25, contingent on maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0.

The Mike Condon Memorial Scholarship offers financial support to students interested in construction, with awards of up to $1,500 per year. Applicants must have a minimum 2.25 GPA and reside in Clinton, Scott, or Muscatine counties. The scholarship allows for reapplication up to four times, emphasizing trade experience. Preference is given to those with relevant educational backgrounds or participation in construction-related activities, ensuring a focus on developing skills in this vital industry.

The Loren and Tammy Bockwoldt Family Scholarship, administered by the Quad Cities Community Foundation, awards up to $2,000 annually to three qualified students, totaling no more than $6,000. Applicants must be high school seniors from Durant or Wilton, Iowa, with a minimum GPA of 2.5 and demonstrated financial need. The scholarship is renewable for up to four years, supporting students aiming for full-time enrollment in accredited post-secondary institutions.

The Edwin K. Mattern, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, supports graduating seniors from the Roanoke Valley pursuing higher education in engineering or architecture. This renewable scholarship emphasizes academic achievement and financial need, requiring recipients to maintain a minimum GPA. Established to empower deserving students, the fund reflects the foundation's commitment to fostering educational opportunities in the community.

What is a Community Foundation?

We are one of more than 750 similar tax-exempt public charities throughout the United States that work to make their community a better place to live. We are a local organization staffed by residents of the community and led by a board of trustees who have an in-depth knowledge of the issues that shape our County.

This Community Foundation was created by and for the people of Washington County MD, and exists to improve the quality of life for all of our citizens, now and for generations to come, by building community endowments, addressing needs through grant making and providing leadership on key community issues.

Dan Pheil Scholarship Fund

Created in honor of Dan Pheil, this scholarship awards a deserving graduating high school senior residing in Washington County who plans to major in business.

The Gates Scholarship (TGS) is a prestigious last-dollar scholarship launched by the Gates Foundation in 2017, aimed at empowering high school seniors from low-income backgrounds. By covering financial barriers, it supports exceptional student leaders in pursuing their college education. The program not only provides funding but also engages scholars with resources and services throughout their academic journey, fostering their growth into future leaders. TGS exemplifies the Foundation's commitment to educational equity and student success.

The Ordóñez Family Scholarship aims to support graduates from Detroit Public Schools or accredited private high schools in southwest Detroit. This renewable scholarship offers $1,250 annually for up to four years, totaling $5,000. Applicants must have resided in southwest Detroit throughout high school and maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA in college. Renewal is contingent upon reapplication and meeting academic criteria, ensuring continued support for eligible students.

The Common Ground Scholarship, awarded by the Foundation for Rural Service, supports high school seniors from rural communities across America with two $9,000 scholarships. Preference is given to students pursuing studies in environmental sustainability, social justice, telecommunications, or economic development. This initiative has provided over $1 million in scholarships, empowering rural students to enhance their communities with vital skills and experiences, thus fostering future leaders in various fields.

Gladys Phillips Memorial Scholarship

Gladys Phillips, the second of four daughters of former Aberdeen Mayor and Superior Court Judge J. M. Phillips, began practicing law in Aberdeen in 1937, the same year she joined three other women in graduating from the University of Washington Law School.

Gladys quickly earned a reputation – a reputation she maintained for over 60 years – as one of Grays Harbor’s most intelligent and formidable lawyers. With both an “encyclopedic knowledge of the law” and a love of roses, ballet and beautiful words, she was to her clients not only a trusted advisor but also a cherished friend.

As a community activist, she helped establish and lead the Bishop Foundation, served as a state representative, worked to erect the Aberdeen YMCA, and guided the creation of the Grays Harbor Community Foundation. The Gladys Phillips Memorial Scholarship is open to all applicants who satisfy the general eligibility requirements of the Scholarship Program.

The nccPA Health Foundation: Kathy J. Pedersen Grant aims to promote equitable health care by providing up to $5,000 for innovative projects that address health disparities. This grant honors Kathy J. Pedersen's legacy and encourages applicants to develop actionable strategies that foster cultural humility, advocate for underserved populations, and improve public health. Grantees are expected to demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and social accountability in their proposed initiatives.

The nccPA Health Foundation: Equitable Care - Be the Change Grant supports PAs and PA students in implementing projects that improve health access and promote equity in their communities. With a focus on addressing health disparities, applicants can receive up to $2,500 to fund innovative initiatives. Applications are accepted year-round, enabling ongoing support for transformative health solutions aimed at fostering equitable care for underserved populations.

William and Bess Osheroff Memorial Scholarship

William Osheroff was born in Omaha and grew up in Erickson, Nebraska. He earned his Bachelor of Science and his Masters and Doctor of Medicine degrees from the University of Nebraska.

A member of the Grays Harbor Medical Association and the American Medical Association, Dr. Osheroff became known on the Harbor as an excellent physician who cared deeply about the community. A general practitioner, he trained to work as a cardiologist and introduced cardiac care services to the Harbor after recognizing that such services were badly needed in the community. Before the technology became commercially available, Dr. Osheroff developed a device for sending EKG tracings over the phone, allowing him to keep better track of his patients’ heart conditions. In 1972, he became a member of the American College of Cardiology.

Like her husband, Bess Osheroff cared deeply about the communities of Grays Harbor and worked to improve the quality of life and health of her neighbors. Born in Jessup, Pennsylvania and raised in Emporia, Virginia, Bess Osheroff became a Registered Nurse through New York City’s Cumberland Hospital School of Nursing.

Together, Bess and her husband helped organize the first Red Cross Blood Drive on Grays Harbor. Bess continued to organize blood drives for twenty years. William and Bess had a daughter and four sons, one of whom died in 1977. Bess died in November 1996, a month after seeing her son Doug, a Stanford physics professor, win the Nobel Prize in Physics.

While preference will be given to applicants interested in studying science or medicine, the William and Bess Osheroff Memorial Scholarship is open to all applicants who satisfy the general eligibility requirements of the Scholarship Program.

The nccPA Health Foundation's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion - PAs STEP Up Grant aims to empower PAs and PA students to create initiatives that enhance diversity and foster inclusive practices within the PA profession. With funding up to $2,500, this grant encourages projects that raise awareness of the PA profession among underrepresented groups, ultimately striving to reduce health disparities and promote equity. Applications are accepted year-round, providing ongoing support for impactful community-driven efforts.