Search Through Education Grants in Denver, Colorado in the U.S.

AJL recognizes that we are neither the experts nor the authority on the issues we work on. We respect and trust our colleagues, partners and the communities we serve and recognize them as the experts on their own experiences. We believe that by bringing together diverse representatives of all communities affected by our grantmaking to make funding decisions, the collective expertise and experiences of the group will lead to more effective and equitable grantmaking decisions and increased impact.

What We Fund

AJL's Grantmaking Committee makes funding decisions based on the following criteria:

Community Giving

As a financial cooperative, Bellco Credit Union’s mission is to improve our members’ quality of life by building their wealth and securing their financial future.

When it comes to our community engagement and financial support for charitable organizations, we focus our efforts on Financial Education, Quality of Life, and Arts & Culture initiatives, as well as initiatives that support our business priorities. Rather than making several small donations, Bellco makes larger contributions to fewer organizations so that we may have a more significant impact.

Focus Areas

• Financial Education
  • Helping provide the best tools and resources so our community can feel financially empowered is why we teamed up with EconLitCO, EVERFI, GreenPath, and Junior Achievement to provide financial education and learning solutions.
• Quality of Life
  • All Coloradans deserve to have access to food, water, and other basic needs.
  • Our support of Food Bank of the Rockies, Food Bank of the Rockies Western Slope Distribution Center, and various Front Range and Western Slope food pantries helps to combat food insecurity and provide health and wellness support to those in need.
• Arts & Culture
  • Bellco believes access to arts and culture are fundamental to strong and vibrant communities, which is why we support the Denver Art Museum, Lone Tree Arts Center and Colorado Business Community for the Arts.

Program Overview 

The main objective of the foundation is to carry on the legacy of Joseph and Vera Dresner by supporting the work of organizations in our focus areas. It was the Dresner’s mission that the foundation would provide a channel to improve the lives of people and animals in their communities. 

The foundation’s approach empowers community members to benefit from the grant investments that we make. We partner with organizations that are committed to creating opportunities for the underserved in our communities. Those partners include a wide-range of entities, including hospitals, community centers, and other nonprofits. 

Our goal is to provide organizations with the necessary resources, so they can continue offering services to those most in need. We seek to test innovative approaches, determine lessons from current commendable activities, and promote the adoption of creative thinking on a broad scale through direct grant making and support for research and other ventures that advance community support. 

We Offer 3 Types of Support: 

• Project – Development of new programs, expansion of existing programs, or continuation of sustainable, recognized effective current programming. 
• Capital – Equipment purchase, acquisition, construction and/or renovation of facilities. 
• Funding for special circumstances, in support of existing grantee  programs, will be considered on a case by case basis. Please note the foundation will not accept unsolicited proposals for this type of support. 

Our Focus Areas Include: 

Health 

We fund projects that support institutions conducting medical research and clinical trials specifically related to Myelodysplastic Syndromes. We also fund projects that improve access to health care and health outcomes. Click here to view information about the Foundation's Myelodysplasia Research Grant.

- support for programs that improve the health outcomes of vulnerable people, particularly underserved, low-income individuals who don’t have adequate access to health care. 

The foundation is equally interested in efforts that have broad and meaningful impact and focus on intervention and prevention beyond the boundaries of any one disease. 

Therefore, we seek to support a network of hospitals and community-based organizations that work to improve the health outcomes of these individuals through enhanced access to health care.

Youth and Family 

It is critical that disadvantaged, underserved, and special needs children have access to programs that allow them to learn and foster important life skills. We help organizations develop and sustain programs that empower children and their families and offer opportunity to improve their lives. 

– support for youth programs that foster self-empowerment and self-esteem through academic, artistic, personal or social enrichment. 

Regardless, if a child lives in poverty or has a chronic disease, it is essential that they have access to programs that encourage self-expression and move their lives forward in a meaningful way. Therefore, we support organizations that empower children and optimize their development by providing access to programs that promote academic, artistic, personal and social enhancement opportunities. 

– support for programs that reinforce families. 

We are also interested in organizations that support youth through the provision of services that strengthen their families such as, but not limited to, workforce development, housing and family food assistance.

Animal Welfare 

We work with animal care organizations to make certain that they have the resources needed to ensure the best care and secure shelter for animals and offer corresponding public education initiatives.

– support for state-of-the-art facilities and services and corresponding public education initiatives.  

The foundation works with animal welfare organizations to make sure they have the resources they need to advance their work. We are interested in supporting state-of-the art facilities and services. Animal welfare efforts that the foundation will consider are, but not limited to, providing adequate treatment resources, upgrading equipment, improving and maintaining facilities, aiding in the shelter of animals in communities, and public education initiatives.

About

The Mabel Y. Hughes Charitable Trust was established under the Last Will and Testament of Mabel Y. Hughes, a resident of Denver, Colorado. Ms. Hughes died on April 9, 1969. Her legacy of giving continues through grants to charitable organizations in the state of Colorado.

Mabel Y. Hughes Charitable Trust Grant

The Mabel Y. Hughes Charitable Trust supports charitable, educational, religious, and hospital institutions in the state of Colorado.

Program Areas

• Arts, culture and humanities 
• Education 
• Environment, animals 
• Health 
• Human services 
• Religion

Shoup Foundation

For the support of a Protestant Church, or an organization which benefits needy people or supports disaster relief efforts in Northern Colorado (North of Denver).

Program Areas

• Animal Welfare,
• Arts and Culture,
• Civic Activities,
• Community Development,
• Education,
• Environment,
• Health and Medical Research,
• Human and Social Services,
• Religious

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

Burns & McDonnell

Burns & McDonnell is a family of companies bringing together an unmatched team of 12,000 engineers, construction and craft professionals, architects, planners, technologists and scientists to design and build our critical infrastructure. With an integrated construction and design mindset, we offer full-service capabilities. Founded in 1898 and working from more than 75 offices globally, Burns & McDonnell is 100% employee-owned.

PLTW Engineering - New Program

Getting students excited about STEM is essential to building a brighter future for all of us. Showing students how STEM topics fit into the real world and real careers can give them the tools to embrace this vital message. Burns & McDonnell and its Foundation have partnered with PLTW to increase access and participation to PLTW programs for students located in Burns & McDonnell communities. PLTW programs empower students to develop and apply in-demand, transportable skills by exploring real-world challenges.

Through this partnership, Burns and McDonnell is supporting PLTW grants to schools interested in starting and expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year.

Program Requirements

Grantee must offer at least one PLTW Engineering course in the 2026-2027 academic year and must offer one additional course in the 2027-2028 academic year (two different courses in two years). Grantee may implement any PLTW Engineering courses of their choosing. Grantee must complete two years of grant reporting.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

Burns & McDonnell

Burns & McDonnell is a family of companies bringing together an unmatched team of 12,000 engineers, construction and craft professionals, architects, planners, technologists and scientists to design and build our critical infrastructure. With an integrated construction and design mindset, we offer full-service capabilities. Founded in 1898 and working from more than 75 offices globally, Burns & McDonnell is 100% employee-owned.

PLTW Engineering - Program Expansion

Getting students excited about STEM is essential to building a brighter future for all of us. Showing students how STEM topics fit into the real world and real careers can give them the tools to embrace this vital message. Burns & McDonnell and its Foundation have partnered with PLTW to increase access and participation to PLTW programs for students located in Burns & McDonnell communities. PLTW programs empower students to develop and apply in-demand, transportable skills by exploring real-world challenges.

Through this partnership, Burns and McDonnell is supporting PLTW grants to schools interested in starting and expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year.

Program Requirements

Grantee must use their grant funds to expand their existing PLTW Engineering program. Example expansion activities include but are not limited to adding an additional PLTW Engineering course not previously offered, and/or adding additional class periods of an existing PLTW Engineering courses previously offered, and/or training additional teachers in PLTW Engineering courses for the 2026-2027 academic year. Grantee must complete one year of grant reporting. 

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

Burns & McDonnell

Burns & McDonnell is a family of companies bringing together an unmatched team of 12,000 engineers, construction and craft professionals, architects, planners, technologists and scientists to design and build our critical infrastructure. With an integrated construction and design mindset, we offer full-service capabilities. Founded in 1898 and working from more than 75 offices globally, Burns & McDonnell is 100% employee-owned.

PLTW Gateway - New Program

Getting students excited about STEM is essential to building a brighter future for all of us. Showing students how STEM topics fit into the real world and real careers can give them the tools to embrace this vital message. Burns & McDonnell and its Foundation have partnered with PLTW to increase access and participation to PLTW programs for students located in Burns & McDonnell communities. PLTW programs empower students to develop and apply in-demand, transportable skills by exploring real-world challenges.

Through this partnership, Burns and McDonnell is supporting PLTW grants to schools interested in starting and expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year.

Program Requirements

Grantee must offer at least one PLTW Gateway unit in the 2026-2027 academic year and must offer one additional unit in the 2027-2028 academic year (two different units in two years). Grantee may implement any PLTW Gateway units of their choosing. Grantee must complete two years of grant reporting.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

Burns & McDonnell

Burns & McDonnell is a family of companies bringing together an unmatched team of 12,000 engineers, construction and craft professionals, architects, planners, technologists and scientists to design and build our critical infrastructure. With an integrated construction and design mindset, we offer full-service capabilities. Founded in 1898 and working from more than 75 offices globally, Burns & McDonnell is 100% employee-owned.

PLTW Gateway - Program Expansion

Getting students excited about STEM is essential to building a brighter future for all of us. Showing students how STEM topics fit into the real world and real careers can give them the tools to embrace this vital message. Burns & McDonnell and its Foundation have partnered with PLTW to increase access and participation to PLTW programs for students located in Burns & McDonnell communities. PLTW programs empower students to develop and apply in-demand, transportable skills by exploring real-world challenges.

Through this partnership, Burns and McDonnell is supporting PLTW grants to schools interested in starting and expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year.

Program Requirements

Grantee must use their grant funds to expand their existing PLTW Gateway program. Example expansion activities include but are not limited to adding an additional PLTW Gateway unit not previously offered, and/or adding additional class periods of an existing PLTW Gateway unit previously offered, and/or training additional teachers in a PLTW Gateway unit for the 2026-2027 academic year. Grantee must complete one year of grant reporting.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

Burns & McDonnell

Burns & McDonnell is a family of companies bringing together an unmatched team of 12,000 engineers, construction and craft professionals, architects, planners, technologists and scientists to design and build our critical infrastructure. With an integrated construction and design mindset, we offer full-service capabilities. Founded in 1898 and working from more than 75 offices globally, Burns & McDonnell is 100% employee-owned.

PLTW Launch - New Program

Getting students excited about STEM is essential to building a brighter future for all of us. Showing students how STEM topics fit into the real world and real careers can give them the tools to embrace this vital message. Burns & McDonnell and its Foundation have partnered with PLTW to increase access and participation to PLTW programs for students located in Burns & McDonnell communities. PLTW programs empower students to develop and apply in-demand, transportable skills by exploring real-world challenges.

Through this partnership, Burns and McDonnell is supporting PLTW grants to schools interested in starting and expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year.

Program Requirements

Grantee must offer at least one PLTW Launch module in the 2026-2027 academic year and must offer one additional module for the 2027-2027 academic year (two different modules in two years). Grantee may implement any PLTW Launch modules of their choosing. Grantee must complete two years of grant reporting.

The Denver Broncos Foundation is committed to making a positive impact on future generations by creating a "game plan" for life through youth health and wellness initiatives, dynamic in and out of school programming and access to career pathways. The Denver Broncos Community Grant Program was created to offer Colorado-based nonprofits and organizations the ability to request necessary funding (up to $10,000) for youth-serving community projects and programs. 

Application Requirements

Colorado-based nonprofit organizations may apply for a Denver Broncos Community Grant (up to $10,000) for youth-serving community projects and programs in the state of Colorado.

Youth Heath & Wellness

Meeting basic physiological needs of children in order for them to thrive mentally, emotionally, and physically.

Youth & High School Football

Improving youth and high school football through programs, clinics and camps that focus on character, player safety, team development and the benefits of football.

Dynamic In & Out of School Programming

Preparing youth to achieve their full potential through activities and experiences to develop academic, developmental, and social competencies.

Access to Career Pathways

Building educational and economic opportunities for an enriching life of self-sufficiency after high school.

Think 360 Arts for Learning

Mission

To engage Coloradans of all ages in innovative arts programming that inspires creativity, builds community, & advances equity.

Vision

All communities can experience the transformative benefits of arts education.

Values

• Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Accessibility
• Creativity & Delight
• Learning & Curiosity

Equity in Arts Learning for Colorado Youth

Equity in Arts Learning for Colorado Youth (EAL) seeks to increase access to arts education for historically marginalized youth. Grants of $10,000-$25,000 are available to support projects that bring professional artists and culture bearers into educational settings to lead programming with youth ages 4-21. Projects supported by EAL will exemplify the value of arts education, encouraging ongoing community support.

Goals of this Initiative

The Bonfils-Stanton Foundation, Denver Arts and Venues, the Gates Foundation, Colorado Creative Industries, and The Denver Foundation have partnered with Think 360 Arts to realize a nearly half-million dollar fund. The goal of the initiative is to dismantle the systemic barriers that have long prevented marginalized youth from experiencing the life-altering benefits of arts learning. Specifically:

• Strengthen regional efforts to improve sustained access to arts education for historically marginalized and minoritized youth (including youth who identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color), LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, and Asexual), a person with a disability, and/or living in a rural community).
• Provide opportunities for youth ages 4-21 to work with professional artists in an educational setting, especially youth who have limited or no access to high quality, sustained arts learning.
• Heighten awareness of the impact of arts education, so that resources both financial and curricular increase state-wide, leading to more equitable access to arts education for youth.

Project Design

Projects may involve any arts & culture discipline or genre, such as theater, dance, music, visual arts, media arts, literary arts, folk and traditional arts, or interdisciplinary art forms. Arts integration projects (connecting an art form with another subject area) are encouraged. Projects should:

• Take place over a period of time that allows for depth of learning and relationship building. Ideally, projects take place over the course of six weeks or longer.
• Center the identities and needs of youth. Youth should be consulted in the project’s design and be able to influence the project’s evolution along the way.
• Fill a clear gap in the school or community. The rationale for the project should be informed by the stated needs of the student and community.
• Engage experienced artists and culture bearers. Teaching artists should have a successful record of working with youth, and whose identities reflect the youth participants.
• Be highly accessible to youth participants. A fee may not be charged for participation, and it must take place in a setting that youth are able to easily get to.
• Allow for time and resources to measure and communicate the project’s value and impact. Evaluation results will be collectively shared.

About Us

Mission

The Colorado Water Conservation Board's mission is to conserve, develop, protect and manage Colorado's water for present and future generations.

Overview

The Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB) represents each major water basin in the state, the Denver Metro Area, and other state agencies in our joint effort to use water wisely and protect our water for future generations.

The CWCB was created over 80 years ago and today it remains Colorado's most comprehensive water information resource. The agency works on a broad range of programs and provides technical and financial assistance to support the Colorado Water Plan.

Governed by a 15-member Board, the CWCB's responsibilities include protecting Colorado's streams and lakes, flood mitigation, watershed protection, stream restoration, drought planning, water supply planning, and water project financing. The CWCB also works to protect the state's water apportionments in collaboration with other western states and federal agencies.

Each CWCB program is directed by the agency's Strategic Framework, as well as through Statutory Authorities and Responsibilities. Reviewed annually by the Board, the Strategic Plan also contains a Board Member Work Plan, which guides the Board's actions and helps implement the authorities and objectives of the CWCB.

Colorado Water Plan Grants

The purpose of the Colorado Water Plan Grant Program is to make progress on the critical actions and measurable objectives identified in the Colorado Water Plan. All grant applications will be assessed based on funds available for a particular Water Plan category.

Colorado Water Plan Grant program funding categories include:

• Water Storage & Supply - includes development of additional storage, artificial recharge into aquifers, and dredging existing reservoirs to restore the reservoirs' full decreed storage capacity for multi-beneficial projects and projects identified in basin implementation plans to address the water supply and demand gap.
• Water Sharing Agreements - includes projects that meet defined water needs while mitigating impacts associated with traditional water transfers.
• Conservation & Land Use Planning - includes long-term strategies for conservation, land use, water efficiency, and drought planning.
• Engagement & Innovation - includes water education, outreach, and innovation efforts.
• Agricultural Projects - includes technical assistance or project/program funding for agricultural projects.
• Watershed Health & Recreation Projects

Examples of eligible projects and activities:

• Technical assistance regarding permitting, feasibility studies, and environmental compliance.
• Studies or analysis of structural, programmatic, consumptive, and non-consumptive water projects or activities.
• Design of structural projects or activities.
• Activities that promote education, outreach, and innovation consistent with the mission and goals of the Water Plan Grant.

What We Fund

At the Buell Foundation, we believe that investing in quality programs will lead to long-term changes in Colorado. The Buell Foundation seeks proven, promising, or developing programs that can demonstrate success in helping children thrive. We support efforts to improve quality and encourage meaningful evaluation and assessment. It is our goal to partner with outstanding organizations to improve the systems that serve children. Particular focus is placed on programs that target underserved communities.

Areas of Interest

Our funding strategy includes two primary areas of interest:

At the Buell Foundation, we believe in the potential of young children. As we work to support Colorado communities in raising thriving kids, we seek grant partners who work in the following areas: 

• Assessment and evaluation:
  • We support a variety of assessments used to gauge the effectiveness of programs and progress of program participants.
  • This may include process/fidelity measures as well as outcome measures (e.g., Teaching Strategies GOLD, Adult-Adolescent Parenting Index, Social Competence Scale, etc.). 
• Behavior and social competence:
  • We support direct programming as well as consultation in early learning settings with a focus on the promotion and prevention levels of behavioral health. 
• Early childhood education and preschool programs:
  • We support licensed child care centers and preschools that have a commitment to quality improvement and serving children from diverse populations. We also support the early learning components of community-based programs, such as family literacy. 
• Home visitation:
  • We support evidence-based and evidence-informed home visiting programs with a focus on supporting positive parenting skills and increased knowledge about child development. 
• Improvements directly related to quality:
  • We support ongoing quality improvement of all programs. This includes funding for materials, additional staff, coaching, and quality ratings. 
• Parenting education:
  • We support evidence-based and evidence-informed parenting education programs with a focus on supporting positive parenting skills and increased knowledge about child development. 
• Professional development and education:
  • We support projects that facilitate early childhood professionals’ access to college-level coursework, mentoring, or community-based trainings. 

The Buell Foundation funds proven, comprehensive, and medically accurate comprehensive sex education programs. The Foundation will not fund abstinence-only programs. 

Comprehensive sex education programs must: 

• Be facilitated by trained and experienced professionals, ideally by someone who has been prepared to facilitate sexual health education programs and/or a curriculum 
• Emphasize the importance of delaying sex 
• Instruct about the benefits and risks of condoms and contraception when engaging in sex 
• Impart information about sexual activity and the use of condoms and contraception that is deemed medically accurate by sources on which medical professionals rely 
• Provide education about consent and refusal skills 
• Occur in a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental learning environment for all youth 
• Be inclusive of the cultures, values, sexual orientation, and gender identity of youth participating in the program 
• Assess the effectiveness of the programs on the skills, knowledge, and attitudes or behavior change of the participants 

Other considerations:

• If adapting an evidence-based program, organizations must ensure that the intent of the program is not compromised and that the same skills, knowledge, and attitudes or behaviors are evaluated. 
• When an option, programs should link students to clinical and medical providers and services. 

If you have any questions about the types of programs that we fund, please call the Program Officer for your region. 

Grant types we prioritize:

• Program/project support and/or planning
• Operating support
• Technical assistance
• Capital improvements (limited child care programs)

Attributes we prioritize:

• Organizations/projects serving rural or underserved populations (e.g., low-income families, teen parents, communities of color, etc.) where there are fewer individuals and institutions providing financial support
• Organizations/projects with evidence of engaging community members to inform project priorities and best meet community needs (e.g., a parent advisory board, focus groups with local families, etc.). This includes collaboration with local stakeholders, such as the region’s early childhood council, a family resource center, the school district, and/or elected officials
• Projects that leverage public funding as sustainable revenue sources (e.g., the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program and Universal Preschool Program)
• Organizations with a commitment to continuous learning and improvement

Lois Webster Fund

The Lois Webster Fund (LWF) of the Audubon Society of Greater Denver (ASGD) was  established in 1995 specifically to support Colorado non-game wildlife research and education projects that lead  to the conservation of these species. 

It  should be noted that the LWF will consider projects focused on all non-game wildlife in Colorado and is by no  means limited just to Colorado birds or to particular habitats. 

The LWF intends to fund at least one project per year and will consider multiple year projects but funding will only be awarded on an annual basis. 

The Lowe Fund

The Lowe Fund is a Field of Interest Fund at The Denver Foundation. Established in the 1960s by the Lowe family, the Fund has resided at The Denver Foundation since 1994. The mission of the Lowe Fund is to provide grants to nonprofits in Colorado that support training, education, and research into the causes, cures, and treatment of developmental disabilities, cerebral palsy, and other related nervous and muscular disorders.

John G. Duncan was born in Sacramento, California in 1866. He lived a substantial portion of his life in Henderson, Kentucky, where he was actively involved in the philanthropic community. He later relocated to Denver, Colorado where he also supported a number of different non-profit organizations. Mr. Duncan died in 1955 at the age of 89.

The John G. Duncan Charitable Trust supports a variety of charitable, benevolent, educational, and religious purposes within the state of Colorado.

Mission

To perpetuate the generosity of John G. Duncan by supporting a variety of charitable causes within Colorado.

Program Areas 

• Education
• Human services
• Health

About the Foundation

The Edward Madigan Foundation was established under the Last Will and Testament of Edward J. Madigan. Mr. Madigan was a resident of Denver, Colorado, and he worked as a chemist and manager. He died on April 6, 1979.

Mission

To encourage and promote a strong work ethic and traditional moral values.

Program areas

• Education
• Health
• Human services
• Religion

Areas of Interest

The areas of interest include scientific research, education and experiences directed at youth, especially at-risk inner city youth, where initiative and a strong work ethic may be nurtured.

Average Giving

Average grant size: $5,000 to $10,000

Average number of grants per year: 10 to 15

Average total giving per year: $70,000

Herbert Parker was a lifelong resident of Denver, Colorado who worked as a tile contractor in the construction industry. The Herbert E. Parker Charitable Trust was established in 1982, pursuant to the terms of his Last Will and Testament, to fulfill his desire to further cancer research and to improve the lives of underprivileged children and children with special needs.

Mission

To carry out the donor’s stated preferences to support cancer research, the care and education of children with intellectual disabilities, and sporting programs for youth, particularly underprivileged children.

There are no program limitations; however, in accordance with the donor’s stated preferences, the foundation has a practice of primarily supporting cancer research, the care and education of children with intellectual disabilities, and sporting programs for youth, particularly underprivileged children. 

Program areas:

• Education
• Health
• Human services

Background

For almost 100 years, Denver residents have trusted The Denver Foundation to steward charitable funds to meet today's needs and tomorrow's opportunities. It's a growing legacy and a community-wide effort to build a better future for everyone. As a tax-exempt, nonprofit, philanthropic organization, The Denver Foundation stewards more than 1,000 funds established by engaged philanthropists. In partnership with the foundation, our donors make gifts to organizations throughout the Seven- county Metro Denver region, across Colorado, and beyond.

Mission

We inspire people and mobilize resources to strengthen our community.

Vision

A Metro Denver that is racially equitable in its leadership, prosperity, and culture.

Purpose

To achieve our vision, we will be proactive, collaborative, and resolute leaders in reducing racial disparities

Grants

The Denver Foundation is pleased to invite qualified nonprofits to apply for funding for The Gorham/McGee Early Learning Fund. The Gorham/McGee Early Learning Fund is a new fund that The Denver Foundation created to support programs that further the education of children aged 0-12 by focusing on literacy, nature and the environment, and/or arts, including visual arts, music and theater.

Grants from the fund are currently $5,000. This year the fund will award two grants.

Renewable Energy Trust (RET) Grant

The Denver Foundation is pleased to invite qualified nonprofits to apply for funding from the Renewable Energy Trust, a donor-advised fund of The Denver Foundation. Renewable Energy Trust supports renewable energy projects for Colorado nonprofit organizations and public entities. The installed renewable energy projects help nonprofit and public organizations offset their energy costs, allowing energy savings to be reinvested in many community programs.

Renewable Energy Trust projects also help educate and inform the public about the benefits of renewable energy, and reduce the carbon footprint of the facility where they are installed. The program is funded through contributions from Xcel Energy’s residential and business customers, either with lump-sum donations or through a premium on energy bills.

Funding

Grants from the fund typically range from $15,000 – $40,000.

Committed to Community

Each year, Boeing and our employees work to build better communities around the world. We have an opportunity — and a responsibility — to be a positive force for change in the places we call home. It’s part of who we are.

We believe that in order to remain a sustainable, dynamic and global company, it’s imperative that we invest time, talent and resources where our employees live and work — contributing to efforts that build and enhance our communities for generations to come.

Here, we showcase the evolution of our philanthropic journey — one that is fueled by purpose, driven by innovation, and dedicated to building a world where positive change is our commitment.

The Employees Community Fund (ECF) of The Boeing Company

One of the largest employee-managed funds of its kind in the world, the Employees Community Fund (ECF) of The Boeing Company has been empowering employees to make a greater impact by pooling their tax-deductible donations for more than 60 years. Employee-led grantmaking committees at 20 Boeing sites- provide combined employee donations to nonprofits in their communities through ECF grants.

Charitable or educational organizations can apply for grants from the Employees Community Fund (ECF) of The Boeing Company.

Colorado Chapter

The Colorado Chapter Grantmaking Committee is part of the Boeing Employees Community Fund (ECF) - an international network of Boeing employee-funded and operated nonprofit charitable foundations. Grants awarded have typically ranged from $2,500 to $5,000, depending on the amount of funds that the local chapter has available at the time of the request and the number of grant requests received during that same year. 

Focus Areas

The Colorado Chapter primarily funds Health & Human Services (H&HS) organization requests from local non-profit organizations (NPO)), but has also funded other worthy NPO organizations or efforts related to other fields (education, social support and development, etc.). The main priority for the Colorado Chapter is to support and fund local (Denver and/or Colorado Springs metro areas) NPO organizations that provide a necesssary service to the local communities as part of the overall Boeing Global Engagement strategy and Community Involvement.

For more than three decades from its roots as Denver Active 20-30, the Denver Children’s Foundation (DCF) has been changing the trajectories of children in Colorado through financial grants to organizations that directly support at-risk, disadvantaged children in our community. But, that’s not all. We also go deeper with a few select charities providing business and other supporting activities to help those organizations grow and thrive. Our membership’s comprised of young, talented professionals who bring experience and fresh ideas to the table. Receiving support from DCF is not easy, but it’s worth it.

Funding Strategy

At DCF, we’ve developed a strategic grant giving strategy that’s aimed at breaking the cycle of poverty among children during their formative years. Obviously, there are many charities doing amazing work in our community. But, we choose to partner with those that have the greatest impact on four areas of a child’s life: Education, Health & Wellbeing, Child Advocacy, and Personal Enrichment.

Education

There’s a growing gap in the quality of education that’s available to children due to socioeconomic, disability, and other situations. At DCF, we support organizations that help students prepare for each step in their educational journey and eventually find gainful employment in our community.

Desired Outcomes:

• Higher graduation rates
• College/high-school readiness
• Job placement

Health & Well-Being

Physical and mental health affects children across all backgrounds and levels of socioeconomic status. As such, DCF supports organizations that eliminate socioeconomic barriers from access to quality healthcare while promoting a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

Desired Outcomes:

• Improved health outcomes
• Access to care, support or treatment
• Post-treatment return to normal life
• Adaptation to long-term health effects

Child Advocacy

Children are often the victims of neglect or abuse and don’t have the ability to advocate for themselves. DCF supports organizations that provide a safe haven for children in crisis situations, provide guidance, and advocate for those children over the long-term.

Desired Outcomes:

• Separation from harmful / threatening situations
• Immediate safety and security
• Successful case-management
• Long-term advocacy

Personal Enrichment

We believe that our perspectives of the world shape our actions. Children that lack basic needs and/or don’t have the opportunity to engage in formative activities are less likely to reach their full potential. At DCF, we support organizations that provide mentorship, adventure, and team-building experiences that broaden a child’s horizons and expand their perception of the world.

Desired Outcomes:

• Individual confidence building
• Increased self-esteem
• High-quality team-building experiences
• Sense of adventure and accomplishment

The Denver Foundation is pleased to invite qualified organizations to apply for funding for the LatinasGive! Fund.

LatinasGive! is a giving circle of women who share both their heritage and a love for taking action in the community. We are committed to building a proud legacy through proactive giving to issues that advance our community in the following areas: cultural values and pride, inclusiveness and equity, promotion of our strengths, multigenerational issues, support existing leaders, culturally based leadership, and efforts that are responsive to community needs.

Funding priorities for this grant are projects and programs focused on education, basic needs, financial stability, Latino and Latina emerging leaders, and social justice.

About the Foundation

The Trust was created out of the generosity of Grace Isabelle McNaught, a teacher and longtime resident of Denver, Colorado (2/1883 – 9/1966).

Mission

The Trust’s mission is to provide general operating support to charitable organizations involved in education, health, and human services, whose work primarily benefits the needs of residents of Colorado.

About Us

In 1952, the U. of C. Federal Credit Union was founded with 12 members and less than $100 in assets to serve the financial needs of CU Boulder staff and faculty. Today, Elevations is an award-winning Colorado financial institution with over $3 billion in assets and more than 170,000 members. While our name has changed and our credit union has grown, our focus remains on empowering our members with financial solutions and education.

Elevations Foundation Community Grants

The Local Change Foundation is proud to support Front Range nonprofits through our Community Grants Program. Grant awards will generally range from $5,000 - $10,000 to organizations that strengthen our communities in the following focus areas: 

• Mental Health
• Affordable Housing

Our Mission

Uniting people, ideas, and resources to advance the common good.

What We Do

Working side-by-side with the community, Mile High United Way takes on critical human services issues facing our seven-county footprint of Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas, and Jefferson counties. For the current grant cycle, our priority will continue to be placed on basic needs services (access to housing, access to food, tax preparation, and legal services), out of-school time, and early childhood education.

What We Believe

• We believe every person who calls Colorado home deserves the opportunity to thrive
• We believe every young person deserves a strong start
• We believe every family should be economically stable
• We believe in community
• We believe in neighborhoods
• We believe in the power of diverse and inclusive voices
• We believe in data

Our Community Priorities

• Giving all children a strong start
  • Ensuring all children entering kindergarten ready to succeed
• Supporting Education and Academic Success
  • Building educational success through partnerships with schools, families, and communities
• Creating Economic Opportunity For All
  • Ensuring people can meet their basic needs and have opportunities to move toward economic success

Strategic Investment Grant (SIG) opportunity

The Strategic Investment Grant (SIG) opportunity is our flagship grantmaking program investing in eligible nonprofit organizations across the seven-county Metro Denver area. These organizations are an extension of our mission in the community. The goal of this Strategic Investment Grant opportunity is to focus investments on outstanding organizations whose work aligns with our overarching strategy to provide high-quality early childhood education, high-quality out-of-school time programming and access to housing, food, legal services, and tax preparation. Strategic Investment Grants are awarded through a competitive, community-driven process.

Issue Areas

We selected six issue areas for funding, under three categories:

• Basic Needs
  • Access to Housing
  • Access to Food
  • Legal Services
  • Tax Preparation
• Out-of-School Time
• Early Childhood

Types of Support

Organizations can apply for General Operating or Program support. The following organizations can apply for Program support only:

• Schools, school districts, school foundations.
• Government entities.