Best Cook County Grants for Nonprofits in Minnesota

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Helen Schlicht McGeachy & Arthur C. Schlicht Scholarship Endowment Fund

This fund provides scholarships to students graduating from Aurora Central, Aurora Christian, East Aurora, Marmion Academy, Rosary or West Aurora High School.

Students entering the field of education, engineering, science, medicine or nursing are eligible to apply for these awards.

This fund was established by Arthur C. Schlicht (1936-2020) in memory of his mother Helen Schlicht McGeachy.

Helen McGeachy (1910-1994) was a graduate of East Aurora High School. An outstanding typist and secretary, she ultimately became secretary to the presidents of CA&E Railway and Walker Process Equipment of Aurora. Arthur Schlicht was vice-president/national sales manager at Walker Process Equipment. He earned a degree in chemical engineering from the Illinois Institute of Technology.

This fund was created in 1994 and established as an endowment in 1995.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. The most common scholarship award amount is $1,000 for a single year. Scholarships are designated as non-renewable one-year awards or renewable multi-year awards depending upon the scholarship fund criteria, as established by the donor of the scholarship fund.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Heather M. Howiler Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund

The Heather M. Howiler Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund is open to current graduating high school seniors in Indian Prairie School District 204. Students must earn a high school GPA of 3.0 and plan to attend a four-year college or university. 

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. The most common scholarship award amount is $1,000 for a single year. Scholarships are designated as non-renewable one-year awards or renewable multi-year awards depending upon the scholarship fund criteria, as established by the donor of the scholarship fund.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Theodore Silseth Nelson Scholarship Endowment Fund

This fund provides scholarships to students returning to school after a lapse of several years since high school graduation. The awards are given to students pursuing a two or four-year degree in health care, with a preference for both financial need and students seeking a registered nurse certification. Theodore Nelson (1937-2017) was employed as a large commercial account underwriter in the insurance industry. He created this fund out of respect for the competency of those in the healthcare profession and to encourage those who wish to improve themselves by returning to school after being in the workforce. 

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Robert L. & Marjory J. Nelson Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund

This fund provides scholarships to students pursuing a career in the medical field of study with a preference to those students entering the field of nursing.

Marjory Nelson (1928-1998) received her bachelor of arts degree from Aurora University and her R.N. certification from the Copley Hospital School of Nursing.

She also undertook additional graduate studies at Northern Illinois University and the National College of Education.

She was employed by Copley Memorial Hospital and later served as a nurse for the East Aurora Schools.

This fund was created by Mrs. Nelson’s family and friends to provide recognition of her extraordinary dedication to the field of nursing.

Upon the passing of her husband Robert, the Nelson family added his name to the fund.

Robert Nelson (1924-2015) was a veteran of World War II. He served with the Navy in Europe and the Marines in the Pacific.

He worked in the field of education and was a retired principal in School District 44 in Lombard, Illinois.

Mr. and Mrs. Nelson were survived by two daughters and three grandchildren.

Created in 2004, the fund became an endowment in 2005.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Robert J. O’Connor Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Robert J. O’Connor Memorial Scholarship Fund was created as a way to honor his long-standing relationship with the Community Foundation and the passion he held for helping local students pursue their educational goals. Bob’s connection to the Community Foundation started when he was the recipient of a scholarship as a 1962 graduate of East Aurora High School. He would later serve nine years as a Foundation Board member.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Olsson Roofing Company, Inc. Scholarship Fund

In 1988, Olsson Roofing Company, Inc. of Aurora created a scholarship fund within the Community Foundation for area students.

Scholarships from this fund are awarded in recognition of high scholastic achievement, participation in school activities and leadership potential.

These awards are reserved for students whose parents are actively involved in the roofing trade or construction industry.

Through the generosity and commitment of this civic-minded company, many students have received needed assistance for their college educations.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Jerry J. Murphy MSW Scholarship Fund

The Jerry J. Murphy MSW Scholarship Fund provides scholarships to students pursuing a Master of Social Work degree.

Jerry Murphy is the retired Executive Director of the INC Board. He served residents of Kane County for over 28 years during his time with the organization.

INC Board, NFP, is an Illinois, not-for-profit corporation which was chartered as Mental Health and Mental Retardation Services on April 21, 1969, to promote the creation of local mental health boards authorized under 405 Illinois Compiled Statutes §20/3a.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Irene & Marie Oberweis Nursing Scholarship Endowment Fund

This scholarship was created by Marie Oberweis as a loving tribute to her sister Irene.

Marie Oberweis (1921-2007) graduated from Madonna High School in 1939.

That year, she started her career with Oberweis Dairy where she later became a partner with her father Peter Oberweis and her brother Joseph Oberweis.

Irene Oberweis (1924-1996) attended Annunciation School in Aurora. She spent many years of her life in hospitals due to fragile health.

In gratitude for the exemplary care her sister received throughout her lifetime from those in the nursing profession, Marie Oberweis created a permanent scholarship fund to support area students entering the nursing field.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

G. William & Freda S. Moore Scholarship Endowment Fund

This fund provides scholarships to students pursuing studies in business or accounting.

G. William Moore grew up on a farm near Paducah, Kentucky. He graduated from Bowling Green College of Commerce with a degree in higher accounting.

Mr. Moore served in the United States Navy during World War II reaching the rank of lieutenant. He came to Aurora in 1946 to work as a CPA for a local accounting firm.

In 1949, he opened his own firm and continued in practice until 1977. He then joined his practice with a firm from Champaign, Illinois, predecessor to Sikich Gardner & Co.

Mr. Moore is a member of Wesley United Methodist Church and the Aurora Noon Kiwanis Club.

Freda S. Moore (1918-2004) was a native of Clarksburg, West Virginia. She graduated from Bowling Green College of Commerce with a degree in business administration.

After graduation, she taught business courses at the high school level. During World War II, she worked for the United States Air Force in Norfolk, Virginia.

Mrs. Moore was a member of Wesley United Methodist Church and was an accomplished musician, playing the piano, saxophone and clarinet.

Nearly a decade ago, HCLTech Grant was launched by the HCLFoundation to enable cross-sector collaboration and empower non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to play a decisive role in building a stronger, future-ready India. Today, HCLTech Grant has invested nearly $18 million in groundbreaking projects and is recognized as one of the largest grant programs in India—impacting over 27,000+ villages across 22 states and 2 UT's

HCLTech Grant for Climate Action in Americas Edition III

The future of cross-sector climate collaboration

We’re proud to bring our learnings and innovations from India to the Americas. As part of our global CSR strategy, we’ll start by investing $5 million over five years to impact-focused, Americas-based NGOs to supercharge their replicable, scalable and sustainable climate action projects. As a $13.7 billion technology company with over 218,000 people worldwide, our mission is to bring together the best of technology and people to supercharge progress for our clients, our people, our communities and our planet.

We’re looking to supercharge innovative, replicable, scalable and sustainable climate solutions. If the work you do fits the following criteria, our mission is to amplify your impact:

Prerequisites

• The organization’s bylaws should expressly permit engagement in purpose-driven projects and, where relevant, climate action initiatives, in accordance with the legal regulations of the country of registration.
• The proposed project must be designed for direct implementation by the applicant organization. Sub-granting of HCLTech funds is not allowed.
• The grant amount must not be used solely for infrastructure development / purchase of fixed assets like land, buildings, and vehicles, among others. Further, proposed infrastructure development costs must be spent in line with project objectives and activities defined.
• The applicant organization, including its governing body members, must not have any pending litigations.
• The applicant organization must not be blacklisted by any government agency, department, ministry, donor or international agency.
• The organization must not have faced cancellation of its license, registration or membership from the country-specific regulatory or statutory body.
• The applicant organization or its board members or employees must not have any political or religious affiliations.

Three organizations will be selected each year—first place will receive $500,000 and two runners-up will receive $250,000 each for a two-year project.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Erwin & Ella Hoffman Scholarship Endowment Fund

This fund provides scholarships for students with a preference for graduates of East Aurora or West Aurora High School and attendance at a Lutheran-affiliated college or university. The fund was established by a bequest received from the estate of Mrs. Hoffman, who died in 1979, a year after her husband’s death. The couple owned and operated a farm in North Aurora for most of their lives.

They were members of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Aurora.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. The most common scholarship award amount is $1,000 for a single year. Scholarships are designated as non-renewable one-year awards or renewable multi-year awards depending upon the scholarship fund criteria, as established by the donor of the scholarship fund.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Eleanor C. Hungar Scholarship Endowment Fund

This fund was established to administer a bequest from the estate of Eleanor Hungar.

Miss Hungar (1905-2005) attended Greenman Elementary School. She was a graduate of West Aurora High School and Illinois State University at Normal. Miss Hungar was a beloved and greatly admired teacher. She had a profound influence on the children whose lives she touched.

To this day, former students fondly recall her extraordinary kindness to those who had the good fortune to learn at her side.

In keeping with her lifelong devotion to children, she bequeathed a portion of her estate to provide scholarships for students entering the field of elementary education.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. The most common scholarship award amount is $1,000 for a single year. Scholarships are designated as non-renewable one-year awards or renewable multi-year awards depending upon the scholarship fund criteria, as established by the donor of the scholarship fund.

10,000 Degrees

What We Do

From college dreams, to graduation day, to your first career, we’ll be there for your entire journey—with near-peer support, scholarships, financial aid assistance, resources, and more.

Sonoma County Medical Association & Alliance Health Careers Scholarship

The Sonoma County Medical Association & Alliance Health Careers Scholarship Fund, administered by 10,000 Degrees, was established in 2001 to support students pursuing a career in medicine, nursing, or other allied health fields. This scholarship is open to undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree students.

Special Education Teacher (SPED) Pathway Program

The Minnesota Department of Education has funding available under Minnesota Statutes 2025, section 122A.77, for grants under the Special Education Teacher (SPED) Pathway Program to develop trained and licensed Tier 3 or Tier 4 special education teachers.

Grant recipients must prioritize using grant funds to support participants who are employed by the grant recipient (or any joint applicants) as Tier 1 or Tier 2 licensed special education teachers. If funding is available, the funds may also be used to support other employees who wish to become special education teachers and who demonstrate a willingness to enter the field after completing the program.

Funding

This grant opportunity estimates $9,825,000 available to fund 10-20 grants under Minnesota Statutes 2025, section 122A.77. Most grants will not exceed $750,000 per grant request; however, there is no maximum grant award.

For larger applicants (including joint applicants), funding needs may exceed the suggested $750,000 maximum amount. For smaller applicants (less than 1,000 students) funding needs are generally under less than $250,000.

Federal Charter Schools Program (CSP) Grant

The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) received a grant from the U.S. Department of Education (ED) to increase charter school quality and authorizer accountability. The three objectives identified in MDE’s application to ED are designed to support a landscape of high-quality/high-performing charter schools that all parents from all communities can access by making informed decisions about the best education choices for their children through empowered access to information.

Ethnic Studies 5-12 Courses: Community-Centered Knowledge Competitive Grant

Under Minnesota Statutes 2025, section 120B.251, legislation passed requiring all districts and charters to offer ethnic studies, including offering a high school ethnic studies course and integrated K-8 ethnic studies instruction. The purpose of the grant is to support districts and charters in the development, evaluation, and implementation of new 5-12 ethnic studies courses.

Minnesota School Districts, Charter Schools, Tribally Controlled Schools, Intermediate School Districts, and Cooperative Units are eligible for funding. Fiscal Year 2025 Ethnic Studies grant recipients are not eligible to apply for this round of funding.

All proposed grant projects must align with Minnesota’s definition of ethnic studies as stated in Minnesota Statutes 2025, section 120B.25.

The grant will provide three levels of support:

• Grant requests of up to $50,000 to support inter-district, co-op, or tribal school collaborations to develop new ethnic studies courses, which could include charter schools and their geographic district LEA.
• Grant requests of up to $50,000 to support district-level applicants to develop new ethnic studies courses, including charter and tribal schools which are independent LEAs.
• Grant requests of up to $50,000 to support school-level applicants to develop new ethnic studies courses, which could support individual or teams of educators working with their building administration.

Total amount available: approximately $665,000.00 per fiscal year

Maximum grant request amount: $50,000.00

At Genentech, we invest in bold ideas and innovative solutions that address systemic inequities in science and medicine to advance a more just healthcare system. We focus on efforts that diversify the scientific and medical workforce, advance health equity, and help our communities thrive. We also further advance excellence in medicine and healthcare through our grants for independent medical education. Including efforts to advance health equity, support patient needs, engage the scientific community, and provide co-pay assistance. 

There are multiple ways to apply for funding. Before you submit an application, we encourage you to explore the following materials to learn more about our opportunities for funding, eligibility requirements and considerations, and the process for submitting a proposal within our Funding Request System (gFRS).

At Genentech, we invest in bold ideas and innovative solutions that address systemic inequities in science and medicine to advance a more just healthcare system. We focus on efforts that diversify the scientific and medical workforce, advance health equity, and help our communities thrive. We also further advance excellence in medicine and healthcare through our grants for independent medical education. IIncluding efforts to promote diversity in STEM across the education pathway, and efforts to support continuing medical education of healthcare providers. Select the option below that best fits your grant focus:

There are multiple ways to apply for funding. Before you submit an application, we encourage you to explore the following materials to learn more about our opportunities for funding, eligibility requirements and considerations, and the process for submitting a proposal within our Funding Request System (gFRS).

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. Individuals and organizations are encouraged to establish a fund with us. 

Townsend, R.E. Educational Scholarship

This fund was established by the trustees of the R.E. Townsend Educational Fund to provide academic scholarships to students intending to further their education.

Guidelines:

Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis and disbursed in August.

Amount:

Minimum of $1,000 and maximum of $2,000 per recipient depending on the fund balance. 

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Betty Booker Lontz Scholarship Fund

This scholarship fund was established in August 2013 by Betty Lontz, a life-long swimmer and devoted and beloved swim instructor. Growing up in Bon Air, Virginia, Betty’s parents collaborated with four other families to build the Bon Air Pool. By 5 years old, she was swimming with the Midgets – children several years older – rather than the Mites. By age ten, she was swimming on a National championship relay team and, though the expense of the trip prevented it, invited to the 1960 Olympics.

Betty began teaching swimming when she was 14 years old. She trained with the West Hampton College swimmers while in high school and took a job at the pool at The Homestead when she graduated. The late 1960’s found Betty at Fort Lee, Virginia teaching lifeguarding skills to returning Vietnam veterans preparing for the United States Special Services. It was there she met her first husband, Bill Lontz. Having been known to say, “If I can find a guy who can out swim me, I’ll marry him,” she was true to her word and married him after two dates. They were married 39 years until his death in 2007.

The young couple moved to Europe for two years, where Betty started another swimming program. On returning to Virginia and the Fredericksburg area, she was instrumental in establishing the pool at Curtis Park. Her well-known Fredericksburg Swim School business (originally called Country Swim School) began in 1975. Over the years, Betty taught swimming and water safety skills to more than 10,000 children -- including some who became Olympic caliber swimmers.

Betty Lontz passed away on November 5, 2015. She attributed her lifetime of swimming with her resiliency in the face of the genetic condition Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS. “Wellness is my story,” said Betty. She believed that, “it’s just smart for people to stay healthy.” In the face of growing social issues that stem from illness, it just makes sense for people to preserve and grow an asset like physical health. On the individual, societal and global levels, the study of wellness is a key to vitality and well-being, including reducing costs to society. “Pathology is important, but promoting good health and preventing illness make so much sense.”

Each year, at least two $500 scholarships will be given to area graduating high school seniors.

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Baron P. “Deuce” Braswell II Memorial Scholarship Fund

This scholarship fund was created in memory of Baron P. “Deuce” Braswell II of Spotsylvania. Baron was the son of Baron Purnell Braswell and Gwendolyn Sue Braswell and he died tragically January 20, 2006. He was a junior and an honor student at Courtland High School. Baron was a very spiritual person and was an active member of the football, basketball, baseball and track teams, known for thanking God for his athletic abilities.

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Anne Koepfinger Inspiring Educators Memorial Award

Anne Koepfinger, a dedicated Special Education teacher, devoted over 28 years of her life to teaching and positively impacting the lives of countless students with learning disabilities. Her unwavering commitment to education and profound influence on students left an indelible mark on the community.

In remembrance of Anne’s remarkable contributions, her family recently established The Anne Koepfinger Inspiring Educators Memorial Award through The Community Foundation. This scholarship serves as a beacon of hope and encouragement, designed to inspire students to follow in Anne’s footsteps and pursue careers in the field of education.

The Koepfinger family recognized that the best way to honor Anne’s memory was to support and uplift the next generation of educators. They understood that the impact of a dedicated and passionate teacher reaches far beyond the classroom. A scholarship in Anne’s name would not only serve as a tribute to her life and work but would also empower aspiring educators to make a meaningful difference in the lives of future students.

The legacy of a beloved educator continues to inspire and touch the lives of students through this scholarship.

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

Linda and Billy Beale Scholarship

The Linda and Billy Beale Scholarship Fund was created to support charitable projects in the community that has been home to their family for many years. Friends and colleagues know Linda and Billy as individuals who are deeply engaged in the fabric of the region – and especially Caroline County – through the business community, through their civic and social lives, and through their family’s involvement in their church and schools.

When thinking about a focal point for their charitable giving through this scholarship fund, the Beale’s were drawn to the school athletic “families” that have meant so much to them and their children over the years. Billy served as assistant baseball coach from 1999 to 2003 and Linda served as assistant volleyball coach from 1998 to 2006. The family also has history of involvement with Caroline Little League that began when their son played t-ball in the 1980’s and continued through their daughter’s service as a board member as an adult. The Beale's continue to show their support by participating in Little League special events today.

Who We Are

We weave the work of communities, connecting and uplifting passionate people, critical resources and transformational ideas. Working side by side with every corner and sector of our region, we have identified social and economic justice as the most critical elements to a thriving community. We serve to advance efforts in these areas by fostering impactful giving, trusted partnerships and authentic engagement for a more equitable southwest Washington.

John and Maradee Potter Scholarship

Maradee Potter established this scholarship to honor her husband, John who died in 2021. John was retired from his career as a proofreader legal editor. John and Maradee were married for 36 years. Maradee is honoring her husband and her work to provide scholarships for students who have graduated from high schools located in Clark County, Washington and have been a recipient of Special Education services with a documented disability. Maradee worked in the Vancouver Public Schools as a Special Education Teacher during her career and continues to be an advocate for people with disabilities by serving on the Clark County Community Services Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board and Homes for Community Living Board. It is important to the donor that people with disabilities have equitable access to education and the support necessary to pursue post-secondary education and career training.

Award Information

The number and amount of scholarships will be determined by the scholarship committee. The scholarship may be renewable. Renewal applicants must reapply each year.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

John Masus Memorial Scholarship Fund

Originally the Masus Financial Group Scholarship Fund, the fund was renamed the John Masus Memorial Scholarship Fund as a memorial to John Masus at the time of his passing.

The Fund supports scholarships to graduating high school seniors who reside within the 60510 zip code in Kane County. 

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. The most common scholarship award amount is $1,000 for a single year. Scholarships are designated as non-renewable one-year awards or renewable multi-year awards depending upon the scholarship fund criteria, as established by the donor of the scholarship fund.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

W. Charlie Hooper & Shirley Linder Hooper Scholarship Endowment Fund

This fund was created upon receipt of a bequest from the estates of W. Charlie and Shirley Hooper.

W. Charlie Hooper (1909-1995) was born in Hillsboro, Texas. He was an accountant with Podolak, Hooper and Kerr in Aurora.

Mr. Hooper also was a charter member of the Aurora Optimist Club and a member of the B.P.O. Elks Lodge of Aurora and New England Congregational Church.

Shirley Hooper (1911-2003) was born in Grand Junction, Colorado. She also was a member of New England Congregational Church. During the last years of the couple’s life, they resided in Venice, Florida.

Scholarships from this fund are available to residents of the Foundation’s service area.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. The most common scholarship award amount is $1,000 for a single year. Scholarships are designated as non-renewable one-year awards or renewable multi-year awards depending upon the scholarship fund criteria, as established by the donor of the scholarship fund.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Urban & Margaret Hipp Family Endowment Fund

The Urban and Margaret Hipp Family Endowment Fund provides scholarships to local students.

This fund was created in 1964 as an advisory fund and became an endowment fund in 2009.

Urban Hipp (1913-2011) was born in Aurora, Illinois. He was a graduate of East Aurora High School and the University of Illinois (Class of 1936).

In 1939, he began his career at the Barber Greene Company where he served as vice president of finance and a director prior to his retirement in 1978. Mr. Hipp also was a director of the Old Second National Bank, Mercy Center Hospital and the Illinois State Chamber of Commerce.

Margaret Barber Hipp (1915-1999) was born in Aurora, Illinois. She was the daughter of Harry H. Barber (co-founder of the Barber Greene Company) and Blanche Capron Barber.

Mrs. Hipp graduated from the University of Illinois in 1937 where she was a member of the Pi Beta Phi Sorority. She was active in many community activities including the Child Welfare Society and the Tuesday Garden Club.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. The most common scholarship award amount is $1,000 for a single year. Scholarships are designated as non-renewable one-year awards or renewable multi-year awards depending upon the scholarship fund criteria, as established by the donor of the scholarship fund.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

The Limoges & Gilmore Scholarship Endowment Fund

The Limoges & Gilmore Scholarship Endowment Fund was endowed in 2024, and provides a scholarship to students with financial need from the Aurora or CFFRV service area who have demonstrated service and empathetic leadership within their community. The fund was created by the family who are long-term residents of the Aurora area who have provided service and leadership within the community. The family has provided service and board level positions to community service, church, school, and non-profit organizations.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. The most common scholarship award amount is $1,000 for a single year. Scholarships are designated as non-renewable one-year awards or renewable multi-year awards depending upon the scholarship fund criteria, as established by the donor of the scholarship fund.