Best Grants for Youth Programs in District of Columbia

Youth-focused 501(c)(3) organizations in the District of Columbia working in literacy, children’s services, the arts, social justice, or the environment can seek program or project funding, with typical awards up to US $5,000. Grants from Nora Roberts Foundation may also cover related operating costs when essential to delivering these programs.

Youth-serving organizations in the District of Columbia can apply for DC Department of Parks and Recreation’s Event and Travel Grant, offering US $10,000 to support a youth event, tournament, or travel for athletic competitions. Funding can help expand inclusive, accessible recreation that promotes physical, social, and emotional wellness for local youth.

Youth-serving organizations in the District of Columbia can receive US $10,000 for field trips and other engagement activities that provide inclusive, accessible recreation for young people. With a mission to enhance wellness and community, DC Department of Parks and Recreation supports programs that foster social, emotional, and physical growth for diverse youth groups.

Youth-serving organizations in the District of Columbia can receive US $5,000 to buy equipment, supplies, and materials for existing sports, cultural arts, and youth development programs. Grants from DC Department of Parks and Recreation help expand inclusive, accessible recreational opportunities that promote physical, social, and emotional wellness for local youth.

Youth-serving 501(c)(3) organizations working in the District of Columbia can apply for Encova Foundation of West Virginia grants to support programs that improve communities and families, promote education, and encourage wellness. U.S.-based nonprofits focusing on health, education, safety, and children may benefit, especially those with active Encova associate involvement.

District of Columbia youth-serving educational agencies working with homeless children and teens can access funding through the District of Columbia Child and Family Services Agency to support school enrollment, attendance, and academic success. This McKinney-Vento program funds LEAs in the District of Columbia to address educational and related needs of homeless children and youth during the 2026–2027 grant period.

Children’s hospitals, general hospitals with pediatric departments, and nonprofits serving ill children near Dunkin’ locations can access funding for pediatric gaming programs through the Connecting Joy Grant; awards US $25,000 - US $65,000 per year. Grants from Joy in Childhood Foundation help District of Columbia youth services enhance patient care, engagement, and virtual connections for teens.

Youth-serving children’s hospitals and general hospitals with pediatric departments in the District of Columbia can receive US $20,000 - US $50,000 to host prom-like events for teen patients missing traditional prom due to illness. The Joy in Childhood Foundation’s Dunkin’ Prom Grant funds themes, space, food, entertainment, photos, and formal wear for pediatric patients ages 13–19.

Youth-serving nonprofits in the District of Columbia can apply for US $25,000 - US $50,000 to create or significantly expand (by 50% or more) personal and professional growth experiences for teens and young adults ages 16–25. Grants from Allianz Foundation for North America support programs that build successful, self-reliant, socially conscious young people, including in Washington, DC.

Youth-focused 501(c)(3) organizations in the District of Columbia can seek project support for education, youth services, community welfare, and arts and culture programs. Mitsui U.S.A. Foundation supports well-developed initiatives, with a preference for programs backed by a local Mitsui office and those emphasizing international education or U.S.-Japan exchanges.

District of Columbia youth-serving nonprofits can seek approximately US $10,000 from the Venable Foundation for general operations or projects. Focused on youth impact, education, health, and related services, the funder invites 501(c)(3) organizations based in or impacting D.C. to support economically disadvantaged children and teens through their programs.

High school students who are YMCA members or program participants can join a four‑month advocacy training program in the District of Columbia focused on youth leadership and civic engagement. With a mission to build youth advocates, National Council YMCA provides students with policy education, peer connections, and hands‑on experience meeting with Congressional offices during National Advocacy Days.

With a mission to reduce truancy and support at-risk youth, nonprofits and community organizations in the District of Columbia can access up to US $250,000 for comprehensive youth and family services. Funding from the District of Columbia Office of the Deputy Mayor for Public Safety and Justice supports mental health care, enrichment, mentoring, parent groups, and culturally competent youth programs.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in the Washington, DC area serving women, children, youth, and families in socioeconomic need can apply for Many Hands grants of up to US $100,000 for unrestricted operating, program, or capital support. Funding focuses on economic empowerment, education, health, and housing, including youth services in the District of Columbia.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving youth and children in need in the District of Columbia can seek project-focused funding for specific programs. TowerCares Foundation supports youth services, children’s health, and families of military and veterans across the Baltimore/Washington corridor, with lower priority for general operations, annual giving, capacity building, or capital campaigns.

Youth-serving 501(c)(3) nonprofits working with children in the District of Columbia and the mid-Atlantic region can seek program support for critical, medical, or educational needs through Dover Grants. Focused on vulnerable children, Speedway Children's Charities prioritizes homelessness, foster care, orphans, and victims of sex trafficking, as well as health, therapy, tutoring, literacy, and after-school programs.

Youth-serving 501(c)(3) organizations in the District of Columbia that have operated for over three years can seek funding for programs supporting children, families, education, poverty relief, and related services. Grants from Robinson Foundation help Southern-region nonprofits address hardships through youth services, family support, disaster relief, medical assistance, animal welfare, conservation, spiritual endeavors, and veterans’ issues, excluding capital projects.

Youth-serving 501(c)(3) public charities, schools, religious institutions, and government agencies in the District of Columbia can receive $2,000 - $8,000 to support program costs and related staff or volunteer training. The Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville’s MartinConnects Fund focuses on homelessness, STEM, veterans, and women and children, which can include youth-focused initiatives.

Youth-serving 501(c)(3) organizations in the District of Columbia can seek funding to improve community quality of life and access to safe transportation. Grants from Mileone Community Giving Foundation help cover programs, multi-year projects, capital campaigns, or operating expenses that benefit youth, especially in underserved areas where the funder does business.

The Peoples Bank Foundation Grant aims to create a significant impact in local communities by providing financial support to nonprofit organizations. With over 20 years of service, the foundation has awarded more than $7.5 million in grants and scholarships across several states. It prioritizes initiatives that assist low to moderate-income individuals and families, encouraging organizations within its footprint to apply for funding to enhance their community-focused programs.

The Synod of the Mid-Atlantic's Thanksgiving Offering Fund supports child and youth care agencies through grants funded by the generous contributions of Presbyterians. Established in 2001, this initiative allows individuals, groups, and congregations to donate, ensuring continued support for vital services. Contributions can be made through direct donations, bequests, or gifts of various assets. Funds are allocated based on designations and a formula for undesignated contributions, promoting community welfare.

The Sprague Charitable Contribution Program focuses on giving back to communities through charitable donations. With awards ranging from $250 to $10,000, priority is given to organizations that support children and environmental stewardship, particularly within Sprague's operational areas. The program seeks impactful contributions that can achieve significant results, reflecting Sprague's commitment to social responsibility and community improvement.

The Cultural Humility Training Grant, offered by the District of Columbia Mayor’s Office on Volunteerism & Partnerships, aims to empower community-based organizations (CBOs) to enhance cultural competency and provide affirming spaces for youth, particularly those experiencing homelessness. This two-year initiative supports CBOs in delivering tailored training, improving service delivery, and fostering inclusive environments. The grant period extends from October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2027, focusing on evidence-based practices to better serve vulnerable populations.

The Capitol Hill Community Foundation offers Fall and Spring Grants to support local programs in education, youth, arts, social services, and community spaces. Each grant can provide up to $3,000 to nonprofits, schools, and neighborhood groups that enhance the lives of Capitol Hill residents. Since 1989, the Foundation has contributed over $6.6 million to various projects, fostering a stronger and more caring community.

The Capitol Hill Community Foundation offers Mini-Grants of up to $500 to support various programs and projects that benefit the Capitol Hill neighborhood. These grants are available throughout the year and are typically aimed at one-time or emergency needs. Eligible areas include educational enrichment for schools, youth programming, arts and culture initiatives, social services, and enhancements for community spaces.

The Arnold F. Keller Jr. Grant, offered by the Capitol Hill Community Foundation, provides a single $25,000 grant annually to support new initiatives or the expansion of existing projects that benefit the Capitol Hill community. Since 1989, the Foundation has invested over $6.6 million into local projects, emphasizing community engagement and support for vulnerable populations. This grant aims to enhance community well-being through innovative programs and initiatives.

About

What is the Pizza Hut Foundation?

In pursuit of happiness, the Pizza Hut Franchisee community, in partnership with Pizza Hut U.S. is proud to announce the formation of the Pizza Hut Foundation.

Our foundation is seeking to touch the lives of over 100 youth annually by partnering with youth-serving nonprofit organizations focusing on literacy education programs to enable our team members and their peers to be career and life ready.

Pizza Hut Foundation, Inc. is a nonprofit, tax-exempt charitable organization under the Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Donations are tax deductible as allowed by law.

About the Slice of Literacy Grant

The bi-annual grant opportunity awards up to $10,000 to public libraries and non-profit organizations that are actively working to improve literacy initiatives in Pizza Hut communities.

The grants are made possible by the generosity of our customers purchase of the BOOK IT! Bundle menu item!