Search Through Grants for Youth Programs in District of Columbia in the U.S.

Charitable Contributions

Costco Wholesale’s primary charitable efforts specifically focus on programs supporting children, education, and health and human services in the communities where we do business. Throughout the year we receive a large number of requests from nonprofit organizations striving to make a positive impact, and we are thankful to be able to provide support to a variety of organizations and causes. While we would like to respond favorably to all requests, understandably, the needs are far greater than our allocated resources and we are unable to accommodate them all.

Warehouse Donations:

Warehouse donations are handled at the warehouse level - please consult your local warehouse for up-to-date information regarding their donations contacts and review process.

Grant Applications

If the request is under consideration, you may be contacted by staff for any additional information needed. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, and decisions are made based on several factors, including: type of program; identified community need not otherwise available; indication that evidenced based data will establish measurable results of intended outcomes; community collaboration; broad base of financial support; project budget and operating expenses.

At OpenAI, ensuring broad deployment of benefits and applying an iterative approach to innovation is core to who we are. We believe AI should help solve humanity’s hardest problems, and that we should listen to and learn from organizations already leading that work on the frontlines.

What we’re funding

We welcome applications from organizations at every stage of AI adoption—from exploration to pilots and active deployment. We recognize that some of the most impactful opportunities may be new initiatives, approaches not yet been widely proven, or come from unexpected places.

The People-First AI Fund will support organizations directly working in three areas:

• AI literacy & public understanding: We seek to support organizations that help communities build the knowledge, skills, and confidence to navigate the age of artificial intelligence. This includes education programs, media initiatives, and opportunities for people to engage with and better understand the technology. We are particularly interested in efforts that equip people with practical skills. This may involve training trusted local leaders—such as educators, faith leaders, youth mentors, or artists—to make discussions about AI more accessible and relevant.
• Community innovation: We seek to support organizations that work in partnership with communities to guide how AI might be shaped and used in their lives. Our priority is to back efforts where communities lead participatory design and decision-making to ensure AI strengthens civic life and helps people stay healthy, connected, and thriving. This includes initiatives that use AI to expand access to and improve delivery of essential services, as well as community co-designed approaches in areas such as health, mental well-being, and building community trust. Priority consideration will be given to organizations working in place-based settings such as schools, libraries, clinics, or community centers; applicants that actively involve residents—including youth—in the design of initiatives; and efforts serving populations traditionally left out of digital innovation, such as older adults, rural communities, or linguistically isolated groups.
• Economic opportunity: We seek to support organizations expanding access to meaningful work in ways that are fair, inclusive, and community-driven by leveraging the promise of AI. This could include programs that prepare people—especially young people—for the jobs of the future; tools that support caregivers and local businesses; and initiatives that help workers build economic security. We are also interested in models of shared value—such as cooperatives or community-based platforms—that respect local culture and center worker needs. Across all efforts, we will prioritize approaches that enhance, rather than replace, human work and ensure the benefits of AI are broadly distributed instead of concentrated among the few.

The Wawa Foundation provides financial grants on a local, regional and national level ensuring that our commitment extends from the local communities Wawa serves. Only registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations operating in Wawa’s areas are eligible to apply. Organizations must fall into The Wawa Foundation’s three key areas of focus: Health, Hunger and Everyday Heroes. To learn more, review our Criteria for Success.

Wawa Foundation Financial Grants

Our submission windows for grants over $2,500 will be the months of January, April, July and October. Qualified organizations can submit grant requests and Letters of Inquiry during those timeframes. Requests will be reviewed and organizations will receive a response before the next grant submission window opens.

Areas of Focus

Health

The Wawa Foundation will provide funding to organizations committed to saving and improving lives in the communities Wawa serves. Specifically, The Wawa Foundation will support organizations dedicated to Championing Life-saving Research & Care for People in Need by:

• Providing grants to hospitals with a focus on pediatric institutions
• Funding research
• Supporting care and comfort Initiatives

Hunger

The Wawa Foundation will play a leading role in hunger relief in the communities Wawa serves. To achieve this, we will support programs that enable us to Lead Hunger Relief Efforts by:

• Providing food donations to local pantries daily through Wawa Share
• Improving access to food through financial grants
• Enabling Feeding America Food Banks to reach more communities through annual in-store campaigns

Heroes

The Wawa Foundation is committed to Supporting the Heroes Making a Difference Every Day by:

• Showing appreciation and care to our military, veterans, first responders and other heroes in our local communities
• Enhancing the education and mentoring of at-risk youth in grades K-12.
• Supporting heroes through crisis response, blood drives, and volunteering

Background

The Foundation seeks to be responsive to community issues and needs. Our process is highly competitive and is open to new projects and new organizations. The following summary, Examples of our Grant-Making, is offered to help guide applicants. While this is not intended to be an exhaustive description and may, as appropriate, change over time, we hope that the following will suggest the kind of meaningful work in which the Foundation is seeking to invest.

Generally, the Foundation looks to support work that improves the lives of DC-area residents, with a particular emphasis on vulnerable and underserved individuals. We encourage organizations that provide comprehensive services and work towards systemic change, which addresses all levels of, and all who are affected by, the issue. The goal is that all in the region become self-sufficient and lead healthy, fulfilling lives. We search for nonprofits that also employ effective partnering and show cultural competence in engaging effectively with communities and people of various cultures and socio-economic backgrounds. On occasion, the Foundation invests directly in strengthening the nonprofit sector by helping current grantees to build organizational capacity and by supporting advocacy and other efforts.

Grants are made in five program areas:

Arts and Humanities

The Foundation recognizes the intrinsic value of the Arts and Humanities, as well as their power to innovate and create social change. The funds distributed support an array of artistic disciplines, as well as organizations that promote the humanities. These nonprofits demonstrate the depth and breadth of their initiatives, including how to meaningfully engage communities that have been historically underrepresented in the Arts and Humanities.

Community Services - The Community Services portfolio includes, but is not limited to:

• Community Development
  • The Foundation seeks to ensure access to safe housing and economic development across the region. These awards support affordable housing production and preservation, services for people experiencing homelessness or housing instability, programs to address wealth disparities, as well as civic engagement and volunteerism.
• Children, Youth and Families
  • Grants in this area help young people improve their academic performance, gain employment, develop relationships with trusted adults and make connections to the larger community. The Foundation prioritizes programs that promote youth voice, empowering young people to advocate for change within their schools and communities.
• Justice
  • The Foundation seeks to ensure access to justice for all individuals in order to create a more equitable region. These grants support civil legal aid, services to survivors of violence, efforts to help people stay out of the criminal justice system and advocacy for system reform.
• Workforce Development
  • The Foundation supports organizations that focus on specific fields and career pathways as well as those that concentrate on broader job- and career-readiness.
• Capacity Building
  • The Foundation supports capacity building organizations that improve the sustainability, quality and impact of nonprofits in the region.

Education

The Foundation recognizes that a high-quality and equitable education system can reduce barriers to opportunity and transform lives. These grants aim to ensure that from the first day children enter an early childhood setting, to the day they receive a technical certificate or a degree, they are receiving an education that is founded in strong relationships, responds to their unique needs, and equips them with the skills they need to thrive and succeed in life.

Environment

The Foundation strives to restore and protect our region’s natural resources so that all individuals can have equal access to clean water, air and land. These grants focus on the restoration and protection of local parks, the Anacostia and Potomac rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Grants to environmental education and stewardship programs for people of all ages create greater awareness of the dangers of an unhealthy environment and the need to protect open natural spaces.

Health & Wellness

The Foundation takes a holistic view of health and wellness to ensure that across the region people of all ages can live healthier lives, regardless of income or zip code. These grants include healthcare provision and supportive services, food and nutrition, as well as coalition building and advocacy.

Centene Charitable Foundation

Successful corporate citizenship happens when companies invest in the local organizations that know their communities best. The Centene Foundation works with our local partners on initiatives that focus on inclusion, the whole person and community development.

Vision

Centene’s purpose is transforming the health of the community, one person at a time. The Centene Foundation is an essential part of how we pursue this purpose. We achieve measurable impact for the communities we serve through partnerships and philanthropy efforts that invest in initiatives with holistic approaches to dismantling barriers to health.

Areas of Focus

Reflecting Centene’s commitment to the needs of those who rely on government-sponsored health care and to addressing social determinants of health and health equity, preference will be given to initiatives in three distinct areas of focus.

• Healthcare Access
• Social Services
• Education

Grants

The Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) strives to enhance the quality of life and wellness of District of Columbia residents and visitors by providing equal access to affordable and quality recreational services by organizing programs, activities, and events, and by building and maintaining safe and beautiful open spaces and recreational amenities. In service of that commitment, DPR’s grantmaking authority specifically provides for funding opportunities to carry out this purpose by awarding and supporting the equitable distribution of grants to diverse organizations that provide high-quality programming.

Rec for All Community Grants

Department of Parks and Recreation is seeking organizations through the competitive grantmaking process to provide inclusive and accessible recreational opportunities to all members of our community. Through our programs and facilities, we strive to promote physical, social, and emotional wellness, foster a sense of community, and enhance the quality of life for all individuals, regardless of ability, age, race, gender, or socioeconomic status. We are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment that celebrates diversity and encourages lifelong learning, growth, and personal fulfillment.

Rec for All Support, Engagement, and Events (See) Grant

DPR is seeking organizations through the competitive grantmaking process to provide inclusive and accessible recreational opportunities to youth in our community. Through our programs and facilities, we strive to promote physical, social, and emotional wellness, foster a sense of community, and enhance the quality of life for all individuals, regardless of ability, age, race, gender, or socioeconomic status. We are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment that celebrates diversity and encourages lifelong learning, growth, and personal fulfillment.

Support Grant 

Five thousand dollars ($5,000) grant to purchase equipment, supplies, and materials for existing programs including sports, cultural arts, and youth development.

Community Grant Program

About

Each year Mayor Muriel Bowser’s administration distributes $7 million dollars in funding to qualified community-based organizations (CBOs) in the District of Columbia through the outreach offices of the Mayor’s Office on Community Affairs (MOCA). These outreach offices manage community grant programs and work with grantees to implement programs focused on Mayor Muriel Bowser’s Priorities for District residents:

Downtown Comeback

Empowering the District of Columbia to remain a city for people of all ages and at all stages of life, means fighting to protect the middle class. When Washingtonians across all eight wards have access to job opportunities and can afford to build a better life for themselves and their loved ones in the District, our residents and communities are stronger.

Public Safety

Public safety serves as a foundation for living a healthy and happy life. We want to create significant, lasting change and not just to reverse these rising trends, but to reduce any type of violence, including gun violence, and ultimately end it. Continuing to support our residents through investments in education, housing, and economic development will improve the quality of life of residents.

Education

Schools are the heartbeat of our communities, and every community deserves a great school. Every child should have the opportunity to reach their full potential and to pursue their dreams. This starts with the basics, such as reading and math. Recreational activities such as sports, art, civic engagement, and youth engagement, will impact the health and well-being of our residents and students.

Black LGBTQIA+ History Preservation Grant

Background Information

The D.C. Mayor’s Office of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning Affairs (MOLGBTQA) is soliciting grant applications for its Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) Black Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, and other identities (LGBTQIA+) History Preservation Grant (BHPG) from qualified for-profit and Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) providing direct services to the District’s LGBTQIA+ community. The mission of the MOLGBTQA is to create a Washington, DC, where all LGBTQIA+ residents are empowered to live authentically and thrive, have equitable access to opportunities, and are supported by an inclusive, welcoming community that actively celebrates and nurtures diversity across every neighborhood. MOLGBTQA fosters civic engagement and promotes understanding of the LGBTQIA+ community through grants, partnerships, and educational initiatives.

The Black LGBTQIA+ History Preservation Establishment Act of 2024, effective June 12, 2024, D.C. Law 25-176, 71 DCR 5021, provides that MOLGBTQA shall research and produce a report on Black LGBTQIA+ history in the District. An Advisory Committee established under the Act will assist in this effort by providing guidance, feedback, and recommendations on the report’s content. The BHPG grantee(s) will support these efforts, as outlined in the funding priorities below. 

Funding Priorities

To qualify for the FY25 Black LGBTQIA+ History Preservation Grant (BHPG), applicants must provide services in at least one of the two funding priorities listed below:

• Policy and Report - This priority focuses on research, comprehensive documentation, and developing actionable policy recommendations to foster systemic change. Grantees will collaborate with MOLGBTQA to create comprehensive historical analyses and policy strategies that promote equity and inclusion.
  • Research and Documentation - Develop detailed research on the Black Pride Movement, Black Trans activism, and the impact of the AIDS crisis on DC’s Black LGBTQIA+ community.
  • Education and Curriculum Development - Work with the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) to create curriculum recommendations for integrating Black LGBTQIA+ history into DC Public Schools.
  • Policy Recommendations - Transform research findings into actionable recommendations for public dissemination and long-term preservation.
  • Legacy of Equity Initiative – Leverage historical research to address racial inequities through innovative policy and systems-level strategies that promote equity and justice.
• Community Engagement - This priority focuses on public-facing efforts to raise awareness, foster dialogue, and drive collective action. Grantees will collaborate to engage diverse audiences and promote the report’s findings in innovative and impactful strategies.
  • Public Engagement and Awareness - Plan public events (e.g., exhibitions, panels, and performances) to showcase research findings and celebrate Black LGBTQIA+ history. Facilitate public feedback on report drafts through meetings and comments.
  • Legacy of Equity Initiative - Develop and implement community-driven programs to improve key areas such as housing, education, economic wellbeing, health, and safety. Bridge research and community engagement to address ongoing racial inequities.

Many Hands Grants

Since 2004, Many Hands has granted more than $2.5 million to nonprofit organizations serving women, children, and families in socioeconomic need in the Washington, DC area. We currently make four grants each year, including one in each of four focus areas: economic empowerment, education, health, and housing. Of the four annual grantees, one receives the Many Hands $100,000 Impact Grant, and three receive Many Hands Partner Grants, the value of which is dependent on annual fundraising. In 2022, each Partner Grant was $67,000. 

Many Hands provides unrestricted funding (which may be used for operating, program, or capital expenses) to well managed and financially viable local organizations that operate effective programs and services. Successful applicants will be able to describe how a Many Hands grant will have an impact on organizational and/or programmatic capacity that leads to an increased ability to help the intended beneficiaries.

Focus Areas

Our grantmaking supports area nonprofits that serve women, children, and families in socioeconomic need through programs in the areas of economic empowerment, education, health, and housing.

Economic Empowerment

The Economic Empowerment Committee seeks to fund organizations that work to improve the economic security and financial well-being of women, youth (ages 14-25), and families in the areas of:

• Job readiness 
• Entrepreneurship
• College/post-secondary success
• Financial literacy
• Adult literacy
• English language proficiency
• Eliminating barriers to work (including legal, transportation, and childcare)

Education

The Education Committee seeks to fund organizations that work to improve educational opportunities and outcomes for children and families in the areas of:

• Early childhood education and development 
• School readiness
• K-12 education
• Academic support and enrichment (including tutoring, mentoring, arts, and after-school or out-of-school time programs)

Health

The Health Committee seeks to fund organizations that work to improve health and safety outcomes for women, children, youth, and families in the areas of:

• Healthcare access 
• Healthcare services and treatment
• Mental health and emotional support
• Substance abuse treatment/prevention (including family supports)
• Public safety (including domestic and community violence prevention)
• Hunger and food security
• Wellness
• Aging

Housing

The Housing Committee seeks to fund organizations working to support women, youth, and families facing homelessness or housing instability in the areas of:

• Homelessness prevention, including emergency rental or utility assistance 
• Emergency, temporary, and transitional housing and shelters
• Permanent or semi-permanent housing
• Housing with wraparound services
• Homeownership services

Community Access Innovations

The mission of DC Health is to promote and protect the health, safety, and quality of life of residents, visitors, and those doing business in the District of Columbia. The agency is responsible for identifying health risks; educating the public; preventing and controlling diseases, injuries, and exposure to environmental hazards; promoting effective community collaborations; and optimizing equitable access to community resources.

The Community Health Administration (CHA) within DC Health promotes healthy behaviors and healthy environments to improve health outcomes and reduce disparities in the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the District. CHA focuses on population health strategies to prevent and control cancer, chronic disease, and vaccine preventable diseases; promote nutrition and physical fitness; ensure access to quality health care services; and support the health and well-being of families across the lifespan. CHA’s approach targets the behavioral, clinical, and social determinants of health through evidence-based programs, policy, and systems change.

The Family Health Bureau works to protect, promote and improve the health of families through screening and surveillance, education, community-clinical linkages, family strengthening programs, preventive services, and positive youth development.

To achieve health equity, or the highest level of health for all District residents, we must be intentional about addressing social and structural determinants of health and eliminating health disparities.

The District of Columbia, Department of Health’s (DC Health), Community Health Administration (CHA) is requesting proposals from qualified applicants to implement innovative and evidence-based strategies to provide healthcare access in the District of Columbia. The development and installation of community healthcare access hubs will aim to reduce barriers to establishing access to consistent care.

Purpose

The purpose of this funding is to pilot healthcare access hubs in the community and assess their impact on preventing and reducing inequities in maternal morbidity and mortality.

Mission

The mission of the Gratis Foundation is to support programs in the fields of education, health care and medical research, humanitarian services, abused and neglected children, and assisting U.S. Military personnel and their families. It is the intent of the foundation to award grants based on achievement, excellence, significance, or leadership in a specific field or charitable endeavor.

Program areas

• Animal Welfare & Advocacy
• At-Risk Youth & Families
• Churches & Religion
• Education
• Food Pantries & Feeding Programs
• Health Care & Medical Research
• International Humanitarian Aid
• U.S. Military Personnel & Family Support

Program limitations 

Supports programs in the fields of education, health care and medical research, humanitarian services, abused and neglected children, and assisting U.S. Military personnel and their families.

States served 

• District of Columbia 
• Florida 
• Massachusetts 

The Foundation

When Herb Block died in October 2001, he left $50 million with instructions to create a foundation to encourage the art of editorial cartooning and to support charitable and educational programs that help promote and support the causes he championed during his 72 years of cartooning. The Foundation is committed to defending basic freedoms, combating all forms of discrimination and prejudice and improving the condition of the poor and underprivileged.

Pathways Out of Poverty

This program will focus on helping needy young people and adults gain a quality education. For projects serving youth, The Herb Block Foundation seeks proposals which focus on improving student achievement and healthy development of young people. Projects may include in-school and community-based educational programs, after-school activities, and mentoring programs. Programs designed to increase high school graduation rates are encouraged to apply.

For projects serving adults, The Herb Block Foundation seeks proposals to provide literacy education and GED preparation, and to offer vocational training and job placement.Grants in the range of $5,000 to $25,000 will be considered. Grants will be considered for one year's funding.

Our Mission

Our mission is to strengthen American Indian economies to support healthy Native communities. We invest in and create innovative institutions and models that strengthen asset control and support economic development for American Indian people and their communities.

With the support of individuals, foundations, corporate and tribal donors, First Nations Development Institute improves economic conditions for Native Americans through technical assistance & training, advocacy & policy, and direct financial grants in multiple key areas:

• Achieving Native Financial Empowerment
• Investing in Native Youth
• Strengthening Tribal & Community Institutions
• Nourishing Native Foods & Health
• Stewarding Native Lands

Founded in 1980, First Nations began its national grantmaking program in 1993. Through year end 2023, we have successfully managed 3,385 grants totaling $79.9 million to Native American projects and organizations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. Territory American Samoa.

Native Language Immersion Initiative

First Nations originally launched the Native Language Immersion Initiative (NLII) in 2017 as a three-year project to build on longtime efforts to support the revitalization and perpetuation of Native languages. The NLII program is designed specifically to build the capacity of and support Native language immersion education programs in tribal communities. With generous support from several foundations and numerous individual donors across the U.S., the NLII program has continued beyond the initial investment.

During this funding cycle, First Nations will award 10 grants ranging from $45,000 to $75,000 to build the capacity of and directly support Native-controlled nonprofit organizations and tribal government programs actively advancing Native language immersion programs.

Language is the foundation through which traditions are deeply rooted and values – such as respect for elders, community, and the Earth – are taught. Research has shown that learning a language increases the social, emotional, intellectual, cultural, and physical development of children. Fortified by learning their Native language, Native youth build a positive cultural identity and resiliency to face life’s challenges.

Since the NLII began, more than 30 Native organizations and tribes have received over $4 million in funding to build the capacity of and directly support their Native language immersion programs. In addition to direct financial resources, this initiative seeks to build a dialogue and community of practice among Native language immersion grantees and momentum for supporting Native language programs.

Funding under this grant will support capacity-building activities designed to improve and enhance the language immersion program’s ability to achieve its mission. This may include curriculum development, technology access, instructional courses and materials, mentorships, teacher training and other kinds of organizational infrastructure.

 The Department of Energy and Environment

Who We Are

The Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) is the leading authority on energy and environmental issues affecting the District of Columbia. Using a combination of regulations, outreach, education, and incentives, our agency administers programs and services to fulfill our mission. We work collaboratively with other government agencies, residents, businesses, and institutions to promote environmentally responsible behavior that will lead to a more sustainable urban environment.

Youth Bicycle Clinic and Ride Grant

The Department of Energy and Environment (the Department) seeks an eligible entity to educate youth in the District on bicycle maintenance, safety, and basic repairs.

The purposes are to: 

• Help them become bicycle pioneers in their respective communities.
• Deepen their knowledge and exposure to alternative forms of transportation, and 
• Encourage them to seek alternative forms of transportation.

Partnering with nonprofit organizations and community involvement have always been a significant part of New Belgium's ethos. We strive to positively impact communities where we do business, to give back to those who have supported us along the way and to advocate for a future that's bright for all

In 1995 when the Grants Program was conceived, $1 for every barrel of beer sold was donated to nonprofit organizations in communities where our beer was distributed. This effort spurred the establishment of the coworker grants committee that, to this day, remains the backbone of the program. This inter-departmental group, open to all coworkers, researches, reviews and allocates funds to worthy organizations doing important work across our areas of focus.

Since its inception, New Belgium has donated more than $11.3 million through the Grants Program. All told we've donated more than $27 million to help solve the world’s most pressing social and environmental challenges through grants and other giving initiatives. 

The purpose of the program is to serve and connect with communities where we sell our beers. We want to cultivate relationships and support those making an impact. Our program consists of both small and large grants and has had several focus areas over the years including: youth environmental education; sustainable agriculture; smart growth and climate; water conservation and restoration; social equity; bicycle advocacy; sustainable transportation; the arts; and substance abuse support. We are incredibly proud of our partnerships and the achievements of New Belgium grantees across the country.

Small Grant Focus Area: Bicycle Advocacy

It's no secret, we like bikes! The bicycle is near and dear to our New Belgium hearts, as you might notice from the label of our flagship beer, Fat Tire. Not only is the bicycle all kinds of fun to ride, but as our friend Jimmy Hallyburton says, it allows us to experience our communities and our world at the speed of discovery: to connect with the world around us in a way that simply cannot be achieved when a car door is separating us from our surroundings.

We are in support of Bicycle Advocacy projects that break down barriers and fosters support for riders of all ages and abilities. We believe the bicycle keeps ourselves and the planet healthy, and we celebrate it daily here at the brewery. Ride on!

Out-of-School Youth Program T.E.C.H. FORCE: Training for Emerging Cyber Heroes Grant

The District of Columbia Department of Employment Services (DOES) will issue a Request for Applications (RFA) for the Office of Out of School Youth (OSY) T.E.C.H. FORCE: Training for Emerging Cyber Heroes Grant. 

T.E.C.H. FORCE, is an innovative workforce development initiative designed to equip out-ofschool youth with critical IT and cybersecurity skills that align with the high-demand technology sector in the District. This program will provide participants with hands-on technical training, industry-recognized certifications, and direct pathways to employment in IT support, networking, and cybersecurity.

DOES OSY invites applications from experienced training providers that can deliver certification-based instruction, integrate work-based learning opportunities, and establish employer partnerships to facilitate job placement. Training providers will be responsible for preparing youth for in-demand IT careers through a combination of classroom instruction, practical lab experience, and career readiness coaching.

About

The DC Oral History Collaborative (DCOHC) documents, preserves, and celebrates the lived experiences of all Washington, DC residents and communities through oral history. The Collaborative accomplishes this by providing training, mentorship, resources, programs, and funding to current and aspiring oral historians.

Grant Opportunity

This grant opportunity provides general operating support funding to humanities-focused organizations that work primarily with young people ages 11 to 19. Funding doesn’t have to be spent on a specific program, but rather can be put towards general operations. We are interested in organizations that use the humanities as a tool to help young people explore issues that they identify as important to themselves and their communities.

This opportunity is part of the Humanities Grant Program supported with funding from the District of Columbia Government through the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities.

Funding Scope

This general operating support grant can be used for any purpose identified by the applicant. Applicants do not have to identify a specific project but will be asked how they expect to use the grant funds.

Participant Advancement, Training, and Higher Education (PATH) Grant

The District of Columbia Department of Employment Services (DOES) will issue a Request for Applications (RFA) for the Office of Workforce and Federal Programs Out-of-School Youth (OSY) Program, Participant Advancement, Training, and Higher Education (PATH) Grant. The RFA will be online on the Serve DC Grants Clearinghouse and on the DOES website at the following page: https://does.dc.gov/page/grant-opportunities.

DOES OSY provides occupational skills training, career awareness counseling, work readiness modules, basic education, GED preparation, supported internship experiences, as well as vocational skills training. Out-Of-School programs serve young adults ages 16- 24 who are no longer attending secondary or post-secondary school. It is a training vehicle that assists youth in achieving short and long term educational and employability goals through relevant occupational skills training and guidance.

DOES OSY is seeking applications from qualified organizations to provide services to District youth, ages 18-24, through its Participant Advancement, Training, and Higher Education (PATH) Grant. The purpose of PATH is to support the delivery of innovative workforce solutions that will drastically improve opportunities for youth between the ages of 18-24 years old to successfully enter and remain in the 21st-century workforce. Each participant will engage in a maximum of 28 weeks of instruction, training, and subsidized internship experience that leads to full-time unsubsidized employment.

Summer Youth Experience Program (SYEP)

The D.C. Mayor’s Office on Latino Affairs (MOLA) seeks qualified Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) that provide services to the Latino communities in the District of Columbia to provide District youth, ages 14-24, with a six-week summer experience.1 Eligible youth participants will attend seminars, training courses, and field trips that will enhance the skills they have learned throughout the duration of the program.

The primary goals for the FY25 SYEP are:

• To provide District of Columbia youth, ages 14-24, with meaningful and structured engagement, career readiness opportunities, and services with a variety of community- based partners for the duration of FY25 SYEP;
• To provide a safe, positive work environment that will allow youth to develop necessary skills and training needed for their future careers; and
• To expose youth to an array of diverse career options and motivate them to stay in school to pursue these careers through interactive, hands-on career development activities and supportive services.

Award Amount

Eligible organizations can be awarded up to $15,000 for operational costs plus funding for the youth participant stipend.

Overview

The Department of Employment Services (DOES) connects District of Columbia (District) residents, job seekers, and employers to opportunities and resources that empower fair, safe, and effective working communities. DOES provides a range of programs and services to jobseekers, including job development, job search assistance, self-directed job search, vocational training, apprenticeship, unemployment insurance, transitional employment, and referrals to supportive services and educational programs.

The Office of Youth Programs (OYP) develops and administers workforce development programs for District youth. OYP provides occupational skills training, work experience, academic enrichment and life skills training to facilitate the development of work habits and skills that are essential for success in the workplace.

Currently, pursuant to the Youth Employment Act of 1979 (D.C. Law 3-46; D.C. Code § 32- 245), OYP conducts an evaluation of the summer program. OYP would like to explore the impacts of these summer programs further and is seeking qualified applications from providers to conduct research on the Mayor Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program (MBSYEP) and the Career Ready Early Scholars Program (CRESP).

Purpose/Description:

The mission of the Office of Victim Services and Justice Grants (OVSJG) is to develop, fund, and coordinate programs that improve public safety; enhance the administration of justice; and create systems. of care for crime victims, youth, and their families in the District. OVSJG provides federal and District funding to local initiatives that address the issues of violent crime, public safety, and criminal justice. OVSJG is also responsible for monitoring grantees for compliance with federal and District regulations and working to build a comprehensive network of crime victim services for the residents of the District of Columbia and its visitors.

AHEP Program Overview

The Commission on the Arts and Humanities (“CAH” or “the Agency”) seeks applications for the FY26 Arts and Humanities Education Projects (AHEP). AHEP furthers CAH’s mission by encouraging progress in the arts and humanities in the District of Columbia by supporting non-profit arts, humanities, arts education, and service organizations who significantly contribute to the District of Columbia as a world-class cultural capital. This grant opportunity has the following program goals:

• Provide access to high-quality arts and humanities experiences that work to advance student academic achievement in the District of Columbia.
• Strengthen the value of an arts and humanities education as a critical component of a student’s broader education.
• Support activities that are consistent with local and national learning standards for arts and humanities education, including the current state standards in non-arts content areas, where appropriate.

AHEP is open for projects of all sizes that demonstrate District impact and engage District children, youth, and older adults.

Grants are competitive and applications are organized for review in cohorts based on the following qualifying project categories: (1) In-School Projects; (2) Out-of-School-Time Projects; (3) Professional Development Projects; or (4) Older Adult Projects.

The District of Columbia (District), Department of Human Services (DHS), Family Services Administration (FSA), is seeking applications to provide housing and supportive services for the Youth Drop in Center program through funding for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026.

The District seeks to continue its investment in youth drop in centers including one 24-hour drop in center and two Daytime drop-in centers for youth experiencing housing instability. Through the Drop-in centers, youth experiencing housing instability or homelessness youth ages 18 to 24 will receive supportive services with the goal of helping them become stably housed as well as obtaining resources, skills, and services. The 24 hour Drop in Center and Daytime Drop in Center included in this RFA must be focused on meaningfully engaging with at least 30-40 individuals per day.  

1.2 OVERVIEW

The mission of DC Health is to promote and protect the health, safety, and quality of life of residents, visitors, and those doing business in the District of Columbia. The agency is responsible for identifying health risks; educating the public; preventing and controlling diseases, injuries, and exposure to environmental hazards; promoting effective community collaborations; and optimizing equitable access to community resources.

The Community Health Administration (CHA) within DC Health works to prevent the leading causes of death, protect and promote the health of mothers and children and eliminate racial and ethnic health disparities in health. CHA’s approach targets multiple factors that influence health through evidence-based programs, policies and systems change. Within CHA, the Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Bureau aims to build and empower healthy communities. Bureau strategies focus on:

promoting safe, healthy behaviors

improving access to care and early detection of disease

supporting optimal disease management to avoid disease complications. Programs and initiatives center on improving data and surveillance capabilities, building healthy environments across communities, improving delivery and use of quality clinical services, and facilitating community-clinical linkages.

1.3 PURPOSE

The purpose of this funding is to prevent youth tobacco use through peer-led tobacco control programs focused on skills development and youth engagement. Organizations will host, sponsor, and facilitate NextGen Action teams that empower youth as partners and leaders to change social acceptance and reduce initiation and prevalence of tobacco use in the District.

 District of Columbia Department of Human Services

The mission of the D.C. Department of Human Services is to provide meaningful and equitable services, supports, and access to resources for District residents to realize their goals.

Pregnant and Parenting Youth Shelter

The District seeks to expand the Pregnant and Parenting Youth Shelter Program that offers unrestricted access to temporary shelter for pregnant and parenting youth ages 16-21 years old who have need for temporary shelter (up to 90 days) while intensive efforts to reintegrate them into the community with their family or another appropriate supportive home environment are pursued. DHS/FSA is putting forth this RFA to identify one service provider with clear plans to bring this vision to life

Target Population

The Program’s target population are pregnant and parenting youth ages 16-21 who are economically or emotionally detached from their families. The youth also lack adequate or fixed residence, including youth who are homeless, unstably housed, living in doubled up circumstances, in, or on the street. The target population at program entry includes youth who are (1) Pregnant (no other dependents) or (2) Pregnant plus no more than 1 dependent(s) no older than 3 years of age or (3) Not pregnant but have no more than 2 dependent (s) no older than 3 years of age.

Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services

The Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services (DYRS) is responsible for the supervision, custody, and care of young people charged with a delinquent act in the District of Columbia in one of the following circumstances:

• Youth who are detained in a DYRS facility while awaiting adjudication.
• Youth who are committed to DYRS by a DC Family Court judge following adjudication.

Youth can be initially committed to the agency until the age of 18 and may remain in the care of DYRS until the age of 21. The agency provides comprehensive support services to committed youth in our secure facilities as well as within the community. DYRS is designed to help young people get on the right track and successfully transition into adulthood. DYRS works with fellow District agencies, community partners, and juvenile justice experts to achieve these goals. We collaborate to implement innovative, research-based models that align with best practices in the juvenile justice and youth development fields.

Mission: The mission of the Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services is to give court-involved youth the opportunity to become more productive citizens by building on the strengths of youths and their families in the least restrictive, most homelike environment consistent with public safety.

Intensive Mentoring for Oasis Youth Leadership Program

The Department of Youth Rehabilitation Service (DYRS) Intensive Mentoring Program for At-Risk Youth seeks to ensure at-risk youth, who live in communities that have experienced high rates of gun violence and crime, receive the support they need to thrive despite adversity. By intentionally enhancing youth pro-social attitudes, creating safe spaces to practice prosocial behaviors, and cultivating connections to supportive adults and environments that sustain their growth, we aim to increase protective factors and build youth resilience to navigate challenges, enhance workforce participation, and engage positively in the community. DYRS seeks to fund programs that deliver multifaceted programming to address the holistic needs of youth; demonstrated proven results in youth outcomes; and employ a cohort approach.

Delaplaine Foundation, Inc., is a private family foundation based in Frederick, Maryland, dedicated to the enrichment of communities and families within Maryland, nearby states and the District of Columbia by supporting programs to strengthen the arts and sciences, historical preservation, educational advancement, spiritual enlightenment and well-being.

What We Support

We are committed to strengthening communities and families through the support of non-profit organizations whose missions are closely aligned with our own, related to the cultural arts, educational advancement, health, human services, historical preservation, and spiritual enlightenment. Approximately 70% – 75% of our grant funding is awarded annually in Frederick County with the balance distributed in other parts of Maryland, to nearby states, the District of Columbia, and even some discretionary national and international grants have been funded. Eligible applications must be a nonprofit organization as recognized by the IRS as a tax-exempt public charity under Section 501(c)3 and 509(a) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Cultural Arts

The arts enrich the quality of life for everyone and elevate the quality of life in the communities where they exist. Delaplaine Foundation supports cultural organizations that bring performances and exhibits to the public, and provide arts education experiences to those who may not otherwise have such access.

Education

Delaplaine Foundation is committed to the support of students, educators, academic programs, and institutions through the funding of educational initiatives, tuition assistance programs and operational support.

Health

Delaplaine Foundation is committed to helping meet the physical, mental and behavioral health needs of individuals, families and communities, ensuring that quality health care is accessible to all.

Historical Preservation

Delaplaine Foundation believes strongly in the importance of history and preservation for present and future generations. Learning from the past helps us to best respond to the present and prepare for the future. For this reason, we support historical programming, as well as archival and structural preservation.

Human Services

Delaplaine Foundation supports non-profit organizations whose programs and services provide critical support and enhance the quality of the life for children, youth and adults.

Spiritual Enlightenment

Delaplaine Foundation values spiritual enlightenment, which we believe positively impacts and deeply enriches the quality of life for everyone and the community-at-large.

Career Ready Early Scholars Program (CRESP) Grant

The Department of Employment Services (DOES) connects District of Columbia (District) residents, job seekers, and employers to opportunities and resources that empower fair, safe, and effective working communities. DOES provides a range of programs and services to jobseekers, including job development, job search assistance, self-directed job search, vocational training, apprenticeship, unemployment insurance, transitional employment, and referrals to supportive services and educational programs.

The Office of Youth Programs (OYP) develops and administers workforce development programs for District youth. OYP provides occupational skills training, work experience, academic enrichment and life skills training to facilitate the development of work habits and skills that are essential for success in the workplace.

DOES, through OYP, is seeking applications for the Career Ready Early Scholars Program Grant. In accordance with the Career Ready Early Scholars Program Amendment Act of 2024 (D.C. Act 25-0550; D.C. Code § 32-242(a)(6) et seq.), the purpose of the CRESP grant is to provide District youth ages 9-13 with comprehensive career and educational exploration activities such as occupational skills, academic enrichment, life skills, work readiness, and youth development trainings during the the summer.