Best Quality of Life Grants in District of Columbia

Department of Behavioral Health

The Department of Behavioral Health provides prevention, intervention and treatment services and supports for children, youth and adults with mental and/or substance use disorders including emergency psychiatric care and community-based outpatient and residential services.

DBH serves eligible adults, children and youth and their families through a network of community based providers and unique government delivered services. It operates Saint Elizabeths Hospital—the District’s inpatient psychiatric facility.

Substance Use Disorder HIV Early Intervention Services

The Government of the District of Columbia, Department of Behavioral Health, Adult Services Division is soliciting applications certified substance use disorder (SUD) providers to conduct human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) early intervention services (EIS) to individuals seeking treatment services in the District of Columbia.

The goal of this funding is to prevent the spread of HIV by increasing awareness and education through counseling, screening/testing, data collection, linkage and referral to treatment service within the SUD/ Behavioral Health continuum of care provider network.

The DBH will fund grantees to implement HIV EIS to include the following four areas:

• Promotion of prevention and education to increase awareness.
• Provide HIV Screening and testing services.
• Ensure linkage and coordination of follow-up care and referrals to treatment.
• Develop a monitoring system to collect the data that aligns with the HIV early intervention process.

The District of Columbia Department of Energy and Environment is offering a grant of $1,000,500 to support the development of electric vehicle charging infrastructure in multifamily buildings. This initiative aims to improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions while enhancing access to clean transportation options. Eligible entities are encouraged to apply through DOEE’s Grants Management System, as late or incomplete applications will not be considered. Award notifications are expected within six to twelve weeks.

The Programmatic Support - Education Pillar Award by Honda aims to enhance workforce readiness in the manufacturing sector. It supports nonprofit organizations and schools focused on hands-on programs in design, software/data analytics, and AI/machine learning. Eligible applicants must be US-based and have 501(c)(3) status. The initiative prioritizes projects that train individuals for manufacturing roles, develop technical skills, and introduce automation to prepare for evolving industry demands, ultimately fostering economic prosperity in local communities.

The Sachs Family Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for economically and educationally disadvantaged individuals and families. The Foundation supports self-sustaining charitable organizations focusing on economic and educational opportunities, particularly in low-income communities in the U.S. and developing countries. Grants are available for various initiatives, including education, housing, and job training, with a keen interest in programs that demonstrate clear potential for sustainability.

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 Doree Taylor Charitable Foundation supports charitable organizations focused on basic provisions for underserved populations, humane care of animals, health care services, public media, and environmental initiatives. The foundation prioritizes organizations in Boothbay Harbor, Southport, and Brunswick, and encourages requests for general operating support, program support, and capital projects, while maintaining a focus on the impact of their services.

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.

Department of Energy and Environment

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.

Private Fleet Diesel Electrification and Low-NOx

The Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) solicits grant applications from eligible entities. The goal of this Request for Applications (RFA) is to improve public health by reducing diesel emissions in the District by replacing class 4+ medium- or heavy-duty diesel-powered vehicles with zero-emission vehicle equivalents. The number and amount of grants will vary depending on DOEE’s evaluation of the applications.

Purpose of the Grant

The purpose of this grant is to select and replace diesel vehicles with zero-emission vehicle equivalents, when these replacements will have a significant community benefit. DOEE will rebate a portion of the cost of vehicle replacements in fleets owned by non governmental organizations, faith-based organizations, universities, or private enterprises.

The Japan – U.S. Global Partnership Grant Program aims to foster collaborative projects addressing global issues through partnerships between Japanese and American organizations. It focuses on policy-oriented research and dialogue among diverse professionals, including academia and grassroots practitioners. Key thematic areas include resilience, inclusivity, and advancements in science and technology. Projects outside these themes may also be eligible if aligned with grant goals, covering topics like climate change, public health, and digital transformation.

About Us

Who We Are

The National Federation of the Blind is the oldest and largest nationwide organization of blind Americans. Founded in 1940 and currently headquartered in Baltimore, the NFB consists of affiliates, chapters, and divisions in all fifty states, Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico.

What We Do

Through our network of blind members, we coordinate many programs, services, and resources to defend the rights of blind Americans, provide information and support to blind children and adults, and build a community that creates a future full of opportunities.

What We Believe

We are the only organization that believes in the full capacity of blind people and has the power to transform our dreams into reality. We believe in blind people because we are blind people—from our democratically elected leaders to our diverse nationwide membership.

Scholarship Program

Thanks to our generous partners, there are thirty $10,000 merit-based scholarships currently available. All scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic excellence, community service, and leadership. The finalists are announced every spring. They then attend our national convention in July when the winners of each individual scholarship are selected. 

Handid Braille Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to an individual studying social science, international relations, or governmental affairs. Handid’s mission is to provide Braille and other forms of accessible media to organizations and individuals. The nonprofit specializes in Braille production in languages other than English, especially languages that do not use the Latin alphabet, and wishes to support a student with unique perspectives.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

The Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for graduate students interested in ocean and coastal policy. Funded by the National Sea Grant College Program, this one-year fellowship matches students with government hosts in Washington, D.C. The program is designed to enhance understanding of marine policy and resource management. Applications are due by February 19, 2025, with selection processes concluding by April 2, 2025. This program fosters professional growth and impactful engagement in marine policy.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

The Pathways Out of Poverty Grant, established by the Herb Block Foundation, aims to empower disadvantaged youth and adults in the greater Washington, DC area through education and vocational training. Grants ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 will support projects that enhance student achievement, provide literacy and GED preparation, and promote job placement. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations dedicated to supporting the underserved and improving community outcomes.

The Mid-Atlantic Environmental Justice Fund aims to enhance community-based organizations' capacity for urban forestry through training and support. This initiative focuses on addressing environmental justice issues across the Mid-Atlantic region, promoting health and sustainability through increased tree canopy. By fostering inclusive decision-making, the Fund empowers organizations historically marginalized in securing funding. Projects must align with EPA's disadvantaged community criteria, ensuring equitable access to resources for environmental stewardship.

Catholic Extension's Enhancing Pastoral and Social Ministry Grants aim to empower the church to broaden its outreach and foster societal transformation through targeted pastoral and social initiatives. This program supports specific elements of the church's ministerial efforts, including funding for catechetical resources, marriage and family ministries, and social outreach for vulnerable populations. By investing in these areas, Catholic Extension seeks to enhance the church's role in communities, especially following disasters.

The Youth 90-Day Emergency Shelter and Case Management Services grant aims to enhance year-round shelter options for youth aged 18-24 facing housing crises in the District. This initiative will provide a comprehensive array of services, including meals, case management, health and wellness support, and workforce development, to empower young individuals towards stability and independent living. The project seeks to connect youth with essential resources and create a supportive environment for their growth and well-being.

Department of Energy and Environment

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.

SRC Aggregator Startup Grants

You can build a Stormwater Retention Credit (SRC)-generating business to make money with green infrastructure (GI) projects. Through the SRC Aggregator Startup Grant Program, the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) is providing funds to support SRC-generating businesses as they evaluate sites for the feasibility of GI retrofits. Grant funds can be used to support technical and outreach work to identify and aggregate SRCs from GI projects in the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4), typically across multiple sites. Through the technical and outreach work funded by an SRC Aggregator Startup Grant, you can identify a pool of projects that will be good candidates to generate SRCs and to participate in the SRC Price Lock Program.

Grants are only available for projects where important aspects of GI siting, retrofit feasibility, and/or cost effectiveness are not currently known. DOEE expects that projects that evaluate numerous opportunities on multiple sites will be more cost-effective. However, projects may include evaluation of sites within a single large property, such as institutional campuses or other large properties.

DOEE expects that the SRC Aggregator Startup Grant Program will make it easier to generate SRCs on land owned by non-profits, such as churches, cemeteries, schools, and similar institutions. DOEE will prioritize funding for these projects.

The External Collaborative Research (ECR) program by Boehringer Ingelheim invites academic and community scientists to propose collaborative studies aimed at protocol development and result publication. This program offers potential drug and financial support, excluding direct salary for the Principal Investigator. Budgets must represent fair market value and will be negotiated further. Research interests span therapeutic areas including Cardio-Renal-Metabolic, Mental Health, Dermatology, and Oncology, encouraging innovative solutions to unmet medical needs.

SITKA Ecosystem Grants support projects that enhance ecosystems and promote conservation efforts. These grants encourage both grassroots initiatives and larger organizational projects, aiming to improve habitat restoration, biodiversity, and the hunting experience. With funding ranging from $3,000 to $20,000, applicants must be 18 years or older and have relevant experience. The review process is ongoing, and projects should emphasize collaboration and measurable impacts on environmental goals, benefiting both society and ecosystems.

The Connection, Assistance, Resources and Education Grant for Dementia Caregivers in DC (CARE DC) aims to enhance the quality of life for dementia caregivers by establishing a coordinated network of resources. This initiative seeks to increase caregiver support and reduce the long-term health impacts associated with caregiving. By facilitating access to dementia navigation services, CARE DC promotes wellness and equity among caregivers in the District, addressing critical health risks and enhancing community collaboration.

The Syringe Service Program Grant, offered by The Comer Family Foundation, aims to enhance harm reduction initiatives by funding syringe access programs across the U.S. These programs provide sterile syringes, education, and support services to mitigate the risks associated with drug use, including HIV and hepatitis transmission. Priority is given to organizations in underserved areas and those led by marginalized communities. Grants are available for operational costs, program development, and staff training, with a focus on sustainability and local partnerships.

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on improving economic mobility and social progress through partnerships with nonprofits. It prioritizes basic needs, income creation, stable housing, and community empowerment. By supporting vulnerable populations, the foundation aims to enable individuals to achieve their goals and contribute positively to their communities. The foundation emphasizes sustainable progress, ensuring that all community members have access to essential resources and opportunities for growth.

ConocoPhillips Charitable Investments focus on Water and Biodiversity Stewardship, promoting conservation and restoration of ecosystems. The initiative emphasizes collaboration with communities and organizations to enhance biodiversity, improve water availability, and foster innovative conservation practices. Proposals are evaluated based on their alignment with long-term conservation goals, community engagement, and innovative approaches. Eligible organizations must be recognized as tax-exempt charities or government subdivisions, while ineligible entities include those advancing political causes or engaging in discriminatory practices.

Urban Tree Canopy Analysis Grant

The Urban Forestry Division (UFD) within the District of Columbia Department of Transportation (DDOT) is soliciting detailed proposals from organizations to conduct an Urban Tree Canopy (UTC) analysis. The project is funded by the United States Forest Service through its Cooperative Forestry Assistance program.

The applicant will compile and provide a comprehensive UTC assessment report for DDOT-UFD. The report will estimate the current extent of the District of Columbia’s UTC and will incorporate data from this and previous studies. Previous UTC analyses were conducted in 2006, 2011, 2016, and 2020. The report will highlight programs, initiatives, trends, opportunities, and ongoing challenges to achieving and sustaining the District’s 40% canopy goal. The report will include a discussion on the results as well as broad recommendations. Interested local government, non-governmental, and community-based organizations may apply for Fiscal Year 2026 UTC analysis funds. Individual proposals should not exceed $100,000.

The John Franzén Grant for the Arts, established by the Capitol Hill Community Foundation, offers a $25,000 annual award to support visual, performing, and architectural arts programs that foster community engagement on Capitol Hill. This grant honors John Franzén, a dedicated community leader, and aims to enhance the cultural landscape by helping artists and organizations increase their outreach and impact. Since its inception in 1989, the Foundation has invested over $6.6 million in community projects.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.