Search Through Environmental Education Grants in Texas in the U.S.

Background

Our Community Investment Program contributes to nonprofit organizations that operate within the immediate H-E-B service area. Depending on the need we may contribute in-kind product, volunteers, or monetary funding towards activities, projects, and causes that make a visible and possible difference. Our Community Investment Program primarily supports organizations focused on arts and humanities, disaster relief, diversity and inclusion, education and literacy, environmental and sustainability, health and wellness, hunger relief, military and veteran support, and general social services.

Please see FAQs for additional guidelines.

The Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation funds high‐impact projects in the state of Texas at the nexus of environmental protection, social equity, and economic vibrancy.

To accomplish our goals, we develop long-term, strategic guidelines for our grantmaking and make disciplined and intentional funding decisions based on these guidelines. We continually monitor and adjust our strategies to accommodate the evolving accomplishments and opportunities in the areas in which we work.

Current strategic grantmaking programs focus on the following initiatives:

Clean Energy

The Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation is committed to clean energy in the state of Texas and supports strategic efforts that ensure that the state’s growing demand for power is both minimized and met with the cleanest and water-leanest sources of electricity possible. Our clean energy program has three areas of focus:

• Enhancing Distributed Energy Resources (DERs); 
• Catalyzing community-scale energy projects; and
• Reducing Industrial emissions.

Land Conservation

Texas possesses an ecologically diverse and biologically significant network of lands, waters, and habitat at a scale that only Alaska rivals. About 95 percent of Texas land is privately owned and managed, which means that private landowners have enormous influence over the long-term health and sustainability of the Texas landscape.

It also means that private land conservation—permanent protection, stewardship, and restoration—plays a critical role in ensuring that future generations of Texans will enjoy and benefit from a broad range of natural resource values provided by these lands. Values associated with healthy land include wildlife habitat and migration corridors, clean water and air, watershed health, soil productivity, recreational access, and so many more.

Shale Sustainability

George P. Mitchell was an early pioneer of shale gas discovery and production and is credited for making shale development commercially viable. He was considered an elder statesman in the industry, taking a leadership role in addressing the challenges of shale production.

At the same time, George had a long history of supporting his keen interests in science and sustainability. Because of George's position in the oil and gas industry, environmental community, and science circles, the foundation is able to lend its voice to the ongoing dialogue and debate about shale development. 

Sustainability Education

Significant gifts from the Mitchells to the National Academy of Sciences in 1996 and 2001 to study the scientific merit of sustainability helped launch a new field of academic endeavor: Sustainability Science.

The sustainability science approach to solving complex environmental and social problems aims to bring together scholarship and practice, global and local perspectives, and disciplines across natural and social sciences.

Water

Water is the most important natural resource in Texas. Ensuring sufficient, clean water is intrinsically tied to a sustainable future. The Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation envisions a future with ample and healthy waters above and below ground that sustain rich, diverse ecosystems while minimizing effects of infrastructure on water quantity and quality throughout Texas and the Gulf of Mexico.

The Texas of tomorrow will be very different than the Texas of the past - planning for an uncertain future is one of the greatest water challenges we face.

SYNOPSIS

International Ocean Discovery Program Operations

The International Ocean Discovery Program (IODP) serves to advance basic research in the marine geosciences and is supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and its international partners. The science plan, , provides justification for the United States' participation in the IODP and reflects the top priorities of the international science community. A multi-platform approach is required to address the goals outlined in the IODP science plan, including a non-riser vessel to collect widely-distributed high-resolution cores to address climate, environmental, crustal and observatory science objectives; a heavy riser-equipped vessel to reach the deep sedimentary and crustal layers; and mission-specific platforms to support high-latitude and shallow-water projects.

The light drillship,, is provided by the U.S. National Science Foundation. Science operations for the JOIDES Resolution are conducted through a Cooperative Agreement with Texas A&M University with scientific planning conducted by the Facility Board.

The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) of Japan provides the heavy drillship, (Earth), to conduct the deep drilling projects in the new program. The Center for Deep Earth Exploration of the Independent Administrative Institution, Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC) operates the vessel for IODP. Scientific planning for IODP operations is conducted by the Chikyu IODP Board.

Mission Specific Platforms (MSP) are provided by the European Consortium for Ocean Research Drilling (ECORD). The ECORD Facility Board conducts scientific planning for MSP expeditions and the platforms themselves are operated by the European Science Operator (ESO).

A Science Support Office (SSO) is provided by Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego under a Cooperative Agreement with the National Science Foundation. The SSO’s primary tasks include:

• providing logistical support for the JOIDES Resolution Facility Board and its advisory panels
• overseeing the proposal submission and review process
• managing the Site Survey Data Bank 
• providing a gateway website to IODP scientific planning 

United States Science Support for Drilling-Related Research

Grant support for drilling-related research performed by United States scientists is available from the NSF. Proposals for most pre-expedition (e.g., site characterization) and post-expedition studies should be submitted through the appropriate NSF programs, such as Ocean Sciences Marine Geology and Geophysics, Earth Sciences, Polar Programs, etc.

In addition to these NSF programs, the NSF Ocean Drilling Program (PD 14-5720) will provide support for small projects to be conducted during the expedition moratorium period to increase the scientific value of, and facilitate further research on, the expedition core, data, and associated samples. The expedition moratorium period begins with the co-chief approval of the expedition sampling plan and generally ends one-year following the post-expedition sampling party ( Refer here for specific moratorium dates for each expedition).

Examples of appropriate post-expedition work include, but are not limited to:

• XRF, CT, or other scans of entire or selected critical sections of core
• stratigraphic refinements for identified critical intervals
• refinement of shipboard measurements/analyses/descriptions as deemed necessary by the shipboard scientific party

These Ocean Drilling Program (PD 14-5720) post-expedition proposals should be submitted during the initial portion of the expedition moratorium period with the expectation that the work can be completed during the moratorium period.

Limited support will also be provided through the Ocean Drilling Program (PD 14-5720) for critical, expedition-specific shipboard or downhole instrumentation (not meant for large instrumentation projects like CORKS) and for data synthesis/reprocessing critical for expedition implementation. Proposals of this type may be submitted at any time prior to the expedition.

Investigators are encouraged to contact the program directors identified in this program description prior to submission of a proposal to the Ocean Drilling Program (PD 14-5720) to discuss the appropriateness of the proposal for this particular program.

It is expected that results generated from Ocean Drilling Program (PD 14-5720) awards will be made available to other shipboard participants upon completion and, once the moratorium is over, to the broader scientific community as required by the NSF-OCE Data and Sample Policy.

Additional support for United States scientists may be obtained via the U.S. Science Support Program. Funding opportunities from this NSF-sponsored program include, but are not limited to:

• planning activities, such as workshops on specific ocean-drilling scientific themes, regional areas, or topics
• support for United States scientists participating on drilling expeditions and JOIDES Resolution advisory panels
• educational programs

Advancing Sustainable Communities

Since 2002, we’ve been empowering local communities with sustainability solutions. Through nonprofit partnerships and sustainability grants, we’ve delivered projects promoting renewable energy, energy efficiency, resource conservation and environmental stewardship.

Mission

"Choose wisely. It's a small planet." That's how it all started back in 1997, when a crew of like-minded folks in Vermont set out on a mission: to use the power of consumer choice and help change the way power is made. Over 20 years later, we’re proud to be a carbon-neutral company that continues to keep sustainability at the heart of everything we do. Join us as we help make the planet a cleaner, greener place to be.

Sustainability Grants

If you’re a U.S.-based nonprofit looking to make a positive environmental impact and you want access to a network of sustainability experts, it’s time to plant seeds of sustainability in your community.

Eligible Sustainability Initiatives

In addition to supporting rooftop solar installation projects, we've expanded our mission to support other sustainability initiatives that include but aren't limited to:

• Clean Transportation
• Education and Awareness
• Energy Efficiency
• Renewable Energy
• Resource Conservation
• Sustainable Agriculture

We’re open to new, creative ideas from nonprofit organizations interested in utilizing and promoting sustainability initiatives.

Selection Process - Impact Measurement

We measure environmental, social and financial impacts:

• Environmental impact calculations consider how the project is more impactful for the planet than the alternative.
• Examples: CO2 prevented (renewable versus traditional generation methods), miles not driven, gallons of water conserved, green space created, pounds of waste diverted.
• Social impact calculations assess how the project will elicit change in the community.
• Examples: results of an email or newsletter story about the project, number of students impacted through curriculum, attendee numbers on sustainability tours.
• Financial impact calculations assess how the project will save your organization money, and how those savings can further support your mission.
• Example: a solar array would save your organization $2,000 per year, resulting in 100 more meals distributed to the homeless or 30 more children receiving free tuition.

Award Amounts

Donation amounts depend on a number of factors, including evaluation of the environmental, social, and financial impact of the donation. Past donations have ranged from $50,000 to $400,000.

Background

Texas Campaign for the Environment Fund's mission is to engage people and communities through face-to-face public education, grassroots organizing and action-oriented research for a cleaner and healthier Texas.

Texas Campaign for the Environment Fund, with the help of generous donors is now able to make mini-grants to grassroots groups, formal and informal organizations working on environmental issues. For a limited period of time, we are accepting applicants directly addressing the impact to communities related to the February Deep Freeze. For this emergency funding period, we are able to offer up to $4,000 per applicant. Through small grants to traditionally under-funded organizations and communities, we’re working with a grassroots network to protect public health all over Texas.

We value local community involvement and organizing, creative interventions, strategic thinking, and both defensive “fight-back” and offensive solutions-focused projects. You do not need to have a legal non-profit status in order to apply.

Grants should fit five basic categories:

• Projects emphasizing grassroots organizing, public education, training and capacity building that develops skills, increases awareness, and/or builds alliances.
• Projects emphasizing community-driven, strategic use of non-violent direct action that demonstrate local resistance to polluting facilities or proposals.
• Travel and other opportunities that amplify community voices in regional, national and international forums and provide access to decision makers.
• Field studies and original research used to hold companies accountable for their on-the-ground activities.
• Seed money for emerging grassroots organizations.

Applicants will be informed within 4 weeks if their application has been accepted or declined.

Applications will be evaluated on the following criteria:

• Applicant’s capacity to carry out proposed activities
• Project need and urgency
• A well-defined strategy, including clear objectives and planned activities
• Scale and scope of community participation, including when applicable that the community where the project is centered and/or that will be impacted by the initiative be engaged in the decision-making process related to the activities
• Project honors and upholds diversity and equity of participants
• Activities would be significantly enhanced by a small grant

Our Vision

We envision healthy lands, waters, native plants and animals supported with vibrant, thriving ecosystems throughout our beautiful state.

We believe great things happen when organizations and funders work together for the highest good.

We are a donor-advised fund comprised of a fund director, advisory committee, and fund administrator. Established in 2017 by G.P. “Buzz” Avery, in partnership with the Austin Community Foundation, we support nonprofit organizations whose primary mission is preserving natural habitats, especially those that are critically threatened.

The Environmental Fund of Texas: Tier 2 -EFT Priority Projects

Tier 2 grants are for projects that address threats to natural environments in Texas—in our priority areas of water, natural areas, and native wildlife. This also includes projects that empower public engagement and action, and forge meaningful connections with nature. Most of the grants we fund are Tier 2 grants.Funding priorities​:

• Water:​
  • We support programs aimed at protecting natural water sources, including rivers, streams, lakes, aquifers, and springs, as well as their supporting watersheds.
    • Examples of programs include:
      • Native vegetation restoration in freshwater habitats, along riparian corridors, and in our bays and estuaries.
      • Creation of rain gardens and water conservation demonstration sites in visible areas that aim to reduce water consumption, provide habitat for wildlife and native plants, and educate the public on the value of green infrastructure.
      • Volunteer oyster gardening and reef monitoring project.
      • Landowner engagement focused on protection and sustainable management of groundwater resources.
• Natural areas:​
  • We support the protection and stewardship of ecologically-functional natural areas.
    • Examples of programs include:
      • Protection and restoration of imperiled and native ecosystems and habitats (e.g. Blackland
      • Prairie, Coastal estuaries, Post Oak Savannah).
      • Removal or reduction of invasive and/or non-native species in conjunction with replanting of native species and continued land/habitat management (e.g. brush removal, prescribed fire).
      • Outreach and technical guidance projects to promote land stewardship and restoration for the benefit of the environment and biodiversity.
      • Collaboration with local landowners and communities to develop compatible use plans and a common vision for natural and cultural landscapes.
• Native wildlife:​
  • We support programs which focus on protecting and sustaining native wildlife.
    • Examples of programs include:
      • Implementation of direct actions to help at-risk species and their habitats in Texas (e.g. habitat restoration, threat removal, communications for behavior change or actions needed).
      • Strategic engagement of local communities/audiences in the conservation of threatened and endangered species in Texas.
      • Technical guidance and resource projects for local landowners to conserve at-risk wildlife.
      • Monitoring of threatened or imperiled wildlife species for the purpose of land use planning that facilitates improved habitat quality/connectivity and that demonstrate a direct link to conservation action.
• Public Engagement:​
• We support projects that forge connections with nature and increase public action for the environment.
  • Examples of programs include:
    • Projects that engage volunteers and communities in on-the-ground action for wildlife and habitat.
    • Engaging students/community partners in the creation of pocket prairies/native gardens used in hands-on learning.
    • Field trip to a local natural area to learn about native wildlife and ecology and participate in a stewardship project (e.g. planting trees or wildlife flower seed).
    • Projects that engage local educators on local conservation issues and provide resources and training for how to incorporate in learning settings.
    • Community events that engages local families in a day of wildlife watching or citizen science and includes opportunities to learn how they can help local wildlife.

Our Vision

We envision healthy lands, waters, native plants and animals supported with vibrant, thriving ecosystems throughout our beautiful state.

We believe great things happen when organizations and funders work together for the highest good.

We are a donor-advised fund comprised of a fund director, advisory committee, and fund administrator. Established in 2017 by G.P. “Buzz” Avery, in partnership with the Austin Community Foundation, we support nonprofit organizations whose primary mission is preserving natural habitats, especially those that are critically threatened.

The Environmental Fund of Texas: Tier 3 - Collaborative Initiatives

For Tier 3 we look for organizations partnering with multiple stakeholders to accomplish something larger than an individual organization could do on its own.

Funding priorities​:

• Water: We support projects aimed at protecting natural water sources—including rivers, aquifers, springs, estuaries, and wetlands—as well as their supporting watersheds.
• Natural Areas: We support the protection, restoration, and stewardship of ecologically functional natural areas.
• Native Wildlife: We support projects which focus on protecting and sustaining native, at-risk wildlife.
• Education and Engagement:We support projects that forge connections with the natural world, increase public action for conservation, and those that build a future generation of environmental stewards.
• Collaboration:  We support projects undertaken in collaboration with volunteers, community members, and partnering organizations.

People Helping People

Founded in 2003, the United Heritage Charity Foundation was developed to support the many charitable projects in which United Heritage Credit Union participates. Since its inception, the Charity Foundation has distributed funds to numerous local charities including children’s organizations, cancer research, veterans and education initiatives. 

UHCF Donation Request

In order to ensure our support has the most direct impact and meaningful impact on our communities, the Charity Foundation has shifted our donation process to focus on organizations and groups based on what is happening throughout the year to actively address current needs. This partnership approach allows us to work side-by-side with them and tell more of the story behind each organization's impact. 

How We Provide Support

The United Heritage Charity Foundation places priority on contributing to deserving organizations that make a difference in our local communities. To maximize our efforts, we support organizations that focus on improving the lives of individuals within Central and East Texas. 

To optimize our efforts, the Charity Foundation supports organizations whose focus includes one or more of a few specific areas outlined here:

• Education:
  • Focus Season: July - September
  • With a belief that our children remain our single greatest resource, the United Heritage Charity Foundation is a strong supporter of education initiatives for young people. By giving today’s youth every opportunity for success, our communities will grow and prosper.
• Family & Children:
  • Focus Season: July - September
  • The Charity Foundation believes that children are the key to our future and that family is the biggest influence in a child's life. Supporting these relationships whenever possible is very important.
• Healthcare:
  • Focus Season: April - June
  • Healthcare has been and will continue to be an important aspect of our culture. The Charity Foundation understands the impact that healthcare and medical research have on our communities.
• Human Services:
  • Focus Season: January - March
  • This area of focus incorporates a few very important initiatives such as assistance for the elderly, those with disabilities or mental health struggles, and many other community assistance programs.
• Military & Veteran Assistance:
  • Focus Season: October - December
  • The United Heritage Charity Foundation feels it is important to support our military and veterans in as many ways as possible to show our appreciation of their many sacrifices. This is also a nod to United Heritage Credit Union's history, as it originally started as a military credit union.

Valero Energy Foundation 

Valero, its employees and the Valero Energy Foundation are committed to improving the quality of life in communities where we work and live, fulfilling a mission that was set from the beginning. We set the standard for corporate citizenship and promotes prosperity in our communities. 

The Valero Energy Foundation -- a public charity and Valero's philanthropic arm -- funds nonprofit agencies that serve predominantly disadvantaged children and families. In 2019, the Foundation contributed appoximately $40 million in assistance in the communities where Valero has major operations.

Four Pillars of Support

Our funding focuses on our four pillars of giving in communities where we have major operations.

• Basic Needs:  Valero gives assistance to agencies that provide basic needs of life, including shelter, food and clothing necessary for the development of a strong and safe community. 
• Health Care: We invest in the development of strategic community health resources and facilities that will support the needs of all members of our nearby communities, with major gifts going to children’s hospitals, university medical centers and service providers that offer specialized health care services and programs.
• Education: Valero is a strong advocate of education as it creates a necessary foundation for all children to thrive and for adults to lead productive lives. 
• Civic: We support civic and environmental initiatives directly related to the success of the communities where we live and work.

About Us

The Foxwynd Foundation comprises dedicated members of the Bentley family residing across the United States. Across numerous years, the family's philanthropic endeavors have catalyzed significant change on both domestic and international fronts, reflecting their deep-rooted commitment to humanitarian causes. This longstanding legacy of giving underscored the imperative to establish a family foundation.

With a diverse and passionate board of members, interests range from supporting domestic violence shelters and children's aid organizations to advancing renewable energy initiatives and safeguarding endangered species.

Today, the Foxwynd Foundation is dedicated to serving as a beacon of hope for communities in need, enhancing access to essential pillars of human dignity and potential, including healthcare, housing, and sustainable environmental initiatives. While presently focused on domestic causes, the foundation aims to expand its impact and secure international funding opportunities by the conclusion of 2024.

Priorities

• Healthcare
  • We support programs dedicated to assisting domestic violence victims, abuse survivors, and the protection of women's rights.
• Environmental Projects
  • We prioritize funding projects with a clear, measurable impact rather than initiatives with broad or abstract objectives. For example, we are more inclined to support tangible activities such as tree planting over programs like conservation education. Additionally, our focus is on building partnerships with organizations that are nonpartisan and refrain from engaging in lobbying activities.
• Housing
  • We are committed to funding established programs that address critical needs, including supporting shelters, preventing homelessness—particularly among children through initiatives such as orphanages—providing or establishing housing facilities, offering housing assistance to prevent eviction, and creating employment opportunities for individuals in need.

Over the past thirty years, The Rachael and Ben F Vaughan Foundation has awarded grants in the areas of animal rights, education, environmental preservation, poverty reduction, and religious iniatives. The Board of Trustees is committed to unique, well-defined, and easily assessed projects. The Board of Trustees prefers to support local projects, although it will accept applications from out of State. 

The Foundation invites organizations to submit a Grant Request Application that describes a specific project in one of the above areas. Grant requests may range between $2,000 and $20,000. The implementation of the project should require no more than twelve months. While the Foundation’s grants largely support work in Texas, it has no geographic limit as the location of the recipient or the project. However, no matter the location, the Foundation encourages grant requests for programs that serve local residents, do not duplicate the efforts of other organizations, minimize administrative fees and will continue to produce benefits after the official date of completion.

Background

Every community faces unique barriers that require collaborative solutions to thrive. The Dow Promise Program supports educational and economic challenges Black youth and adults face in the United States by addressing community-identified needs and advancing equitable opportunities. Through grants of up to $10,000 towards social, economic or environmental initiatives, Dow Promise not only fosters a thriving community, but a shared future.

Since 2000, this annual competitive program has committed to uplifting communities in which Dow operates by supporting their needs and investing in positive social change for long-term success.

The Montgomery County Community Foundation

The Montgomery County Community Foundation was established to create and build a permanent fund to provide for the present and future well-being of our community. To this end, the Foundation works to encourage philanthropy by offering local donors simplicity and flexibility in carrying out their charitable wishes while creating an enduring legacy. We strive to be the hub where local donors, nonprofits and community needs meet. A board of private citizens, who represent the diverse interests of Montgomery County, governs the Foundation.

Grants

Donor Advised Funds

A donor advised fund gives donors the opportunity to actively participate in the philanthropic process by reviewing grant requests and recommending charitable organizations/programs to receive grants. Donors enjoy the benefits of recommending grants that fulfill their charitable wishes, without the expense and obligation of administration. The Foundation’s Board of Directors is legally responsible for approving all grants.

The Annie & Irvin Hoffman Memorial Fund provides grants to nonprofit organizations based in Montgomery County with a special interest in programs for the elderly and children.

The Dan H. & Martha Foster Madeley Heritage Fund was set up to provide grants to Montgomery County nonprofit agencies for researching, collecting, preserving and sharing the histories of the people of Montgomery County, Texas.

The David and Jill Sharp Vaughan Family Fund was set up to meet the benevolent needs of our county and its citizens including, but not limited to, animal welfare.

The George and Emily Fath Fund For Human Needs provides financial assistance for the neediest families in Montgomery County with special consideration given to people who have sudden unexpected needs due to sickness, injury, disability, death in the family or natural disasters. The spirit of Matthew 25:31-46 will serve as a guide.

The Margaret and Foster Madeley Family Fund was set up to help create and foster secure environments and programs in which people are able to experience their potential to thrive.

The Metcalf Family Endowment Fund provides grants to benefit the people of Montgomery County.

The Rick and Rosalind Dauzat Endowment was established to provide grants for the arts and culture, education, and human services.

Field of Interest Funds

Through field of interest funds, donors support a particular interest area such as the arts, children and youth, health and wellness, neediest families or senior citizens. Use of the fund is restricted to the donor’s designated causes, but flexibility remains to meet changing community needs.

As a long time supporter of the Community Foundation, Mr. Brooks left a legacy of to build the future of Montgomery County.  He was especially concerned about children, the youth and senior adults. 

Dale Buckalew Crane’s children, Donnie, Debbie, Deann and Denny, established this fund to honor and remember their mother. Family was the most important thing in Dale’s life. This fund focuses on organizations that provide financial assistance to the children, youth and the elderly of Montgomery County.

Aaron and Dianna Dushkin were community and business leaders in Conroe, with a furniture store on the Courthouse Square.  They helped establish several nonprofits which helped community residents.  Dianna and her children have established this fund to benefit projects that support and encourage the creative arts and literacy in the Montgomery County area.

The Elise Mae & Edward Everett Taylor Fund was created through the Taylor’s will to provide financial assistance to the neediest individuals in Montgomery County, with a special interest in programs that provide services to meet the needs of elderly citizens in the community.

The Jeffrey Kass, MD Dog Rescue & Animal Welfare Fund was created primarily to support dog rescue, including fostering, veterinarian care, transportation, and the adoption process. The Fund also provides assistance to organizations that deal with injured, abandoned or abused animals.

The Jeffrey Kass, MD Elderly Assistance Fund was created to provide support for the indigent elderly in need. All seniors are entitled to proper nutrition, medical care, medications, transportation assistance and companionship. Organizations that are assisting the indigent elderly in any or all of these areas are eligible for grants under this fund.

Arts and culture are a vibrant part of Montgomery County life. This fund honors the spirit of the Montgomery County Performing Arts Society closed its doors and will support performing and visual arts and cultural activities.

Support the environment and ecology initiatives.  Grants will be available once the fund is fully funded.

Created in honor of MCCF’s 2007 – 2017 Executive Director Shannon Kidd’s huge heart, this fund supports programs focused on securing and sustaining the physical, mental, emotional and/or spiritual well-being of children who have been abused and neglected. The spirit of James 1:27 will serve as a guide: Religion the God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.

Support physical and mental health care needs including prevention and education.  Grants will be available from this fund once it reaches full funding status.

Support services, programs, and initiatives for Veterans.

Support services, programs, and initiatives for youth and children. Grants will be available from this fund once it reaches full funding status.

To further adult literacy in Montgomery County.

The Susie and Jack Brouse Family Fund was established to provide financial assistance for the neediest families in Montgomery County, Texas, in the spirit of Matthew 25:31-46.

The Woodlands Medical Center Foundation Fund was established for the purpose of providing health care and wellness assistance and education, including shelter and medical or psychological screening, treatment, or counseling in the South Montgomery County/The Woodlands area, through funding of capital improvements.

The Vernon Randolph Yeakely Endowment Fund was established through Mr. Yeakley’s will to provide funding for homeless, hungry and needy people in Montgomery County.

The Vernon Randolph Yeakley Fund for Animal Welfare was established through Mr. Yeakley’s will to provide a perpetual source or funds to promote the humane treatment of animals through community education and supporting responsible pet/animal ownership.

Unrestricted Funds

Donors establishing or adding to unrestricted funds recognize that our community’s needs and opportunities change over time. These funds provide flexible resources needed to support innovative responses to address the community’s most pressing needs. The Foundation’s Distribution Committee and Board of Directors oversee the use of these funds, directing them to projects that most significantly contribute to the welfare of residents of Montgomery County.

The Don A. Buckalew Family Fund was established by Don A. Buckalew, a recognized leader and businessman in Montgomery County, and his family to meet the current and emerging needs of Montgomery County residents.

The Frankie Alexander Benevolent Fund was established by the Montgomery County Community Foundation Board of Directors as a general Unrestricted Fund to accept contributions in memory or honor of individuals.

Formerly know as the Jason & Marti Mann Family Fund, the Family Legacy Partners Endowment Fund was established to meet the current and emerging needs of Montgomery County residents.

 T.J. and LaVerne Plunkett Foundation Grant

Lifelong residents of Rusk County, T.J. and LaVerne Plunkett loved their community and were committed to improving lives throughout the region. Organizations applying to the T.J. and LaVerne Plunkett Foundation Grant at East Texas Communities Foundation must align with the conservative, Christian values exemplified by T.J. and LaVerne Plunkett and their family. Such values include integrity, honesty, stewardship, and respect for all life.

Requests for support in the areas of arts and culture, education and job training, health and human services, Christian ministries, children and youth programs, animal welfare, or environmental concerns are welcome. Requests should not to exceed $10,000.

Program Areas

At Toyota, we believe an auto company can also be a vehicle for change. That’s why Toyota is proud to partner with nonprofit organizations across the U.S. in the local communities where we live and work. Toyota and affiliates support programs in key areas:

Primary

• Education – Special consideration is given to STEM programs as we continue to develop our future workforce.
• Inclusive Mobility – Connecting people to opportunities by developing inclusive mobility solutions.
• Community Resilience – Building resilience by investing in needs required to thrive, specifically relating to environmental sustainability and driver/passenger safety.

Secondary

• Health and Human Services
• Arts and Culture
• Civic and Community

Toyota considers funding requests that:

• Are geared towards benefiting a large number of people
• Offer participation in local educational programs
• Exhibit clear, measurable and realistic goals and objectives
• Establish the means for evaluation and reporting after a program is completed
• Provide leadership and development programs for participants
• Target youth within any of the funding priority areas
• Include financial and other strategic commitments from other funding organizations

Land Conservation

Grants are awarded annually for the preservation of North Texas area ranchland and open-space land utilized for agricultural purposes, wildlife or botanical resources. In addition, the fund supports programs providing education about the importance of protection of land and natural resources.

Focus

Agencies that promote conservation and environmental stewardship, and the preservation of open space in North Texas.

• Projects that directly contribute to the conservation of native Texas species and habitats (e.g. urban green spaces, parks, community gardens, landscaped medians and parkways, prairie restoration, etc.)
• Programs providing education regarding the importance of protection of the land and natural resources.
• Preservation of North Texas area land utilized for agricultural purposes, wildlife, or botanical resources.
• Organizations that help build on existing conservation efforts while strengthening the whole operation.
• Grants for educational programming will be awarded up to $7,500 per organization.
• Grants for conservation & environment projects will be awarded up to $25,000 per organization

T.L.L. Temple Foundation

The T.L.L. Temple Foundation works alongside rural communities to build a thriving East Texas and to alleviate poverty, creating access and opportunities for all.

Focus Areas

In support of its mission to build a thriving Deep East Texas and to alleviate poverty, the foundation makes grants in the areas of education, economic development and community revitalization, health, human services, arts and culture, and conservation and the environment. Central to the foundation’s work is the aim of breaking the cycle of poverty, and the foundation prioritizes support for residents and communities that most lack access to opportunities they need to succeed

Health

America’s Health Rankings, an independent health measure that combines more than 30 health-related metrics, ranks Texas 34th out of 50 states in resident health. Texans show comparatively high rates of obesity, physical inactivity, and diabetes. Disparities in health status–by race and ethnicity, geography and income–are also higher in Texas than in many states: Texas ranks 44th in the prevalence of health disparities in the nation.

Access to health care providers is also a challenge in Texas, particularly in rural areas of the state. This is partly a function of insurance coverage. According to the U.S. Census, Texas has the highest rate of uninsured residents in the nation: in 2016, 17.1% of Texas residents do not have health insurance coverage, compared to 9.4% nationally. It ranks second in lack of health insurance coverage for children: 9.5% of children in Texas have no health insurance, compared to 4.8% nationally. In our region, insured rates are even lower: in 2014, 21.3% of residents had no health insurance coverage, compared to 19.1% for the state in 2014. 

Given these challenges, our goal is simple: to improve the health of residents of Deep East Texas. The barriers of poverty, geographic isolation, and a lack of access to health care services make it particularly difficult for many residents in our region to improve and maintain their health. Yet poor health status often limits residents’ ability to get a high quality education, hold down a sustaining job, and stay out of poverty.

Education

Educational attainment is a significant challenge in our region. Based on U.S. Census data, Texas ranks 49th out of the 50 states for having the lowest percentage of adults with a high school diploma, with 18.5% of people 25 and older not having earned a high school degree or equivalent. According to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board the problem is even more pronounced in our region. In the most recent 8th grade cohort available, there were 24,639 students in upper and southeast Texas counties we serve. Five years later, only 72.0% completed high school, meaning that almost 7,000 young people did not complete the most basic education.

The counties in our region lag even further behind when it comes to college completion: according to the U.S. Census’s 2015 American Community Survey, only 14.0% of people 25 and older have a bachelor’s degree or higher, compared to 27.1% in Texas and 29.3% nationally. This is particularly problematic considering that many of the region’s fastest growing occupations require at least an associate’s degree, if not a four-year degree. 

Education has always been a top priority for the T.L.L. Temple Foundation because it is the most effective tool to break the cycle of poverty and build a thriving region. Addressing the region’s low rates of educational attainment—particularly for low-income students—is critical to improving outcomes in poverty, health and economic development. We aim to increase access to high quality educational opportunities for residents in Deep East Texas. We invest in programs that measurably improve education outcomes in the region, including: early childhood education, out-of-school-time programs, and programs dedicated to increasing postsecondary preparation, access and success. We also support efforts to ensure that Deep East Texans have the skills needed to obtain and retain high quality jobs.

Economic Development and Community Revitalization

The 24 counties in our service region have very high rates of unemployment: according to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2016, 52.9% of the population 16 and older was in the labor force, compared to 64.4% in Texas and 63.5% nationally. In the Deep East Texas Workforce Development Area, the unemployment rate was 7% in 2016. While this decreased from 10% in 2011, it is significantly higher than the state unemployment rate of 4.7% and the national unemployment rate of 4.9% during the same period.

According to the Texas Workforce Commission, between 2012 and 2022, jobs are expected to increase by 13.1% in the Deep East Texas Workforce Development Area, compared to 21.3% for Texas, and 10.8% for the U.S. The fastest growing occupations correspond to the region’s aging population: home health and personal care aides, nursing, medical secretaries, and medical assistants. Most of these jobs require a two or four-year degree. 

We aim to improve economic opportunities and help develop and sustain thriving communities in the most economically challenged places in our service area. Vibrant communities and a robust regional economy are central to creating and sustaining a thriving Deep East Texas. We invest in efforts to transform disinvested communities into places with economic opportunities and equitable access to the essential community resources needed to help families thrive. Impact Lufkin, a foundation-initiated program, is an example of the foundation’s approach to holistic, resident-engaged community revitalization. Because engaged citizens are central to fostering strong communities, we also fund programs to increase civic participation. Finally, we invest in programs that strengthen the regional economy and improve economic opportunities for residents of Deep East Texas.

Human Services

Too many residents of Deep East Texas live in poverty. According to the U.S. Census, in 2015 in the 24 counties that we serve, 19.3% of residents live in poverty, compared to 15.9% of Texans and 13.5% of people in the U.S. The median household income (2010-2014) is 21% lower than the state of Texas, and 22% lower than the U.S. For these residents, poverty can become a vicious cycle, limiting access to the quality education, self-sustaining employment, and health care needed to rise above poverty.

The foundation works to ensure the most vulnerable residents in our service region have their basic needs met. By helping provide access to food, shelter, social services and other programs, we strive to make sure that there is a strong safety net to support the region’s low-income and vulnerable residents.

Arts and Culture

Arts and culture are critical for healthy communities and a thriving region. The foundation has long supported efforts to celebrate the region’s cultural heritage and document its important history. We will continue to help enrich the lives of Deep East Texans by investing in programs that provide access to artistic and cultural experiences.

Conservation and the Environment

Beginning with the first timber harvested in the second half of the nineteenth century, the Temple family has had a special bond with the forests, wetlands, and open spaces across our region. We believe that the health of our natural environment is closely connected to the health of our residents, our communities, and our region and so seek to protect our important natural resources.

The primary emphasis of the foundation’s conservation and environmental efforts is the Boggy Slough Conservation Area  - a Temple Foundation-managed program.

The aim of the Boggy Slough Conservation Area is to:

• serve as a model for conservation and land management;
• serve as a catalyst for creating a stewardship ethic and connection to nature in our communities; and
• bridge critical research gaps regarding the forest and bottomland ecosystems of the Neches River basin and the Southeast.

Type of Support

The foundation awards funding for multiple purposes, including: general operating support, project support, capital improvements, and organizational development and capacity building.

Size and Duration of Grants

The size and duration of grants is matched to the applicant’s scale of impact, need, capabilities and opportunities, and typically follow these guidelines:

• We provide one-year funding for initial grants
• We rarely make grants that exceed 30% of a project or organizational budget

Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation

The Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation is a not-for-profit philanthropic institution organized and operated primarily as a collection of charitable funds that will have long term benefit for the Wichita Falls area. These funds are used wisely and efficiently to respond to area needs and to sustain existing organizations and institutions through grants in many areas, including arts, culture, education, environment, historic preservation, health, and human services.

Mission

To promote philanthropy; to provide charitable opportunities; to facilitate donors’ interests; and to leave a legacy for future generations

Grant Policies

Grants are awarded for such charitable, benevolent, civic, moral, religious, environmental, and educational uses and proposes that will most effectively assist, encourage, and promote the well-being of mankind whether supported wholly or in part by private donations or by taxation.

About

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's mission is to manage and conserve the natural and cultural resources of Texas and to provide hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

Community Outdoor Outreach Program (CO-OP) Grant

The Community Outdoor Outreach Program (CO-OP) grant provides funding to tax-exempt organizations for programming that engages under-served populations in TPWD mission-oriented outdoor recreation, conservation and environmental education activities.

The success of this program lies in the partnerships created between TPWD and grass-roots organizations who have already established a relationship with these identified targeted audiences; females, physically/mentally challenged, ethnic minorities, low income and youth.

What We Fund

CO-OP provides grants to tax- exempt organizations ranging from $5,000 to $70,000. This is a reimbursement grant program. Recipients must purchase eligible items and submit proper documentation before being reimbursed.

Education

Early Childhood Development & Education

The Powell Foundation seeks to ensure that all children benefit from high-quality early environments and services that foster their healthy development, foundational skill-building, school readiness, and lifelong success.

Our Early Childhood investments are focused in the following areas:

• High-quality providers & educators
• Supportive caregivers
• High-capacity sector

We invest in organizations who champion efforts to:

• Develop, sustain, and scale the availability of high-quality early childhood programs for infants, toddlers, and young children.
• Train and build the capacity of early childhood educators and providers.
• Strengthen the knowledge and capability of parents and other caregivers to nurture and guide their children’s early development and learning.
• Improve the coordination and reach of the intersecting systems impacting early childhood.

Quality Public K-12 Schools

The Powell Foundation believes that all students should receive a high-quality public K-12 education through access to effective schools, curriculum, programming, and support services that ensure they graduate from high school prepared for post-secondary success.

Our Quality Public K-12 Schools investments are focused in the following areas:

• Excellent educators
• Student supports
• Quality schools & school models

We invest in organizations who champion efforts to:

• Strengthen preparation, pathways, training, and development for teachers, school leaders, and district leaders.
• Ensure students receive high-quality, evidence-based academic instruction, programming, and supports.
• Promote the positive development of non-cognitive skills, social-emotional learning, and positive school climate and culture.
• Scale and expand access to high-quality district and public charter school models that strengthen educational outcomes for all students.

Post-secondary Pathways to Success

The Powell Foundation seeks to ensure that all students are prepared for, can access, and complete a post-secondary program that leads to meaningful employment opportunities.

Our Post-Secondary Pathways to Success investments are focused in the following areas:

• Post-secondary access and success
• Post-secondary readiness
• Policies and systems

We invest in organizations who champion efforts to:

• Increase access to and participation in advanced coursework, career awareness programming, and college and career entrance exams.
• Strengthen post-secondary advising and counseling and provide replicable and scalable tools to improve access.
• Bolster the academic preparedness of students to pursue post-secondary pathways; increase student proficiency in non-cognitive and affective skills critical to post-secondary success.
• Strengthen post-secondary persistence, certificate/degree completion, and career attainment.
• Support policies that increase post-secondary access, persistence, and success.

Aligned Cradle-to-Career Education System

The Powell Foundation supports efforts to coordinate and connect people, programs, systems, and policies and collective efforts to create a seamless and integrated educational pathway for children and youth.

Our Aligned Cradle-to-Career Education System investments are focused in the following area:

• Effective tools, policies, and systems

We invest in organizations who champion efforts to:

• Promote continuity across the education system, supporting students at pivotal transition points and accelerating high-impact practices.
• Convene and build a coalition of advocates in support of a sustained and scaled cradle-to-career continuum.
• Invest stakeholders in an aligned vision for strengthening and better connecting early childhood, K-12, and post-secondary.
• Democratize access to user-friendly data and the creation of tools to track and monitor outcomes for students across the full continuum.

Supportive Communities

The Arts

The Powell Foundation works to promote vibrant communities by expanding equitable access to educational experiences in the arts and encouraging public engagement with diverse arts and culture.

Our Arts investments are focused in the following areas:

• Arts education
• Public arts and culture access

We invest in organizations who champion efforts to:

• Provide arts education and cultural experiences to K-12 students, particularly those attending schools in “arts deserts”.
• Provide training on teaching and learning techniques that integrate the arts.
• Expand the community’s access to and engagement in the arts.
• Increase diversity and representation in the arts, with a lens towards historically marginalized groups.

Conservation

The Powell Foundation seeks to foster environmental benefits for current and future generations by connecting people to nature, building environmental stewardship, and addressing critical problems in the local environment.

Our Conservation investments are focused in the following areas:

• Conservation & Environmental education
• Connecting people to nature
• Environmental protection

We invest in organizations who champion efforts to:

• Create high-quality conservation and environmental science learning experiences for children and youth.
• Foster an appreciation and understanding of nature, the natural environment, and environmental stewardship, particularly among children and youth.
• Increase equitable access to public parks and urban greenspaces to support community wellbeing.
• Address critical environmental issues and efforts focused on protecting, preserving, and improving natural resources impacting our geographies through the support of programs, initiatives, and advocacy efforts.

Human Services

The Powell Foundation seeks to foster community wellbeing by empowering children, families, and individuals with the resources and supports they need to flourish.

Our Human Services investments are focused in the following areas:

• Stabilization & empowerment
• Emotional wellbeing

We invest in organizations who champion efforts to:

• Address food security and hunger alleviation at scale for children, youth, families, and other vulnerable populations.
• Provide housing, wrap-around services, and skill-building programs for homeless and housing insecure individuals, including transition-age youth.
• Promote emotional wellbeing of children and youth in crisis by providing mental/behavioral health interventions and supports.
• Coordinate and build the capacity of school systems to use evidence-based practices to promote students’ mental and behavioral health, including prevention, identification, and treatment efforts.

Grantmaking Strategies

Since 1961, the Jacob and Terese Hershey Foundation has supported the health of our environment, reproductive justice, and the nurture of nature in Texas and Colorado. We are primarily interested in making investments that benefit one or more of the following geographic regions: greater Houston, central Texas and southwestern Colorado, as well as efforts of statewide significance in Texas.

We provide different types of support, including operating, project and capital grants, and are open to providing operating and project grants for terms of up to two years at a time.

Our grantmaking reflects our belief that the well-being of humans and nature are linked. We believe that our support of nature and natural spaces; the dignity, health, worth, and power of people — especially those under threat — is in direct service of the vision for a healthy and harmonious world.

With commitment, focus and a long-term vision, we invest toward environmental justice & conservation, reproductive rights & justice, parks & open space, environmental literacy, and animal care facilities.

Priorities

Environmental Justice & Conservation

The health and well-being of our communities, natural spaces, and critical species are inextricably linked and essential to one another. Key threats in our region include the pace and scale of new development, an expanding industrial footprint and continued reliance on gray infrastructure, all with few regulatory safeguards, contributing to climate change, biodiversity loss, urban flooding, inadequate water supply, and air and water pollution. Communities of color and those with low incomes are disproportionately burdened by these environmental harms.

The Foundation invests in efforts to mitigate climate change and reduce harmful emissions; protect and steward land and water resources; and improve habitat and recover species of concern. The Foundation supports advocacy initiatives, community organizing, legal strategies and on-the-ground conservation, and values work that centers the vision and voices of those most impacted.

Reproductive Rights & Justice

Everyone should have reproductive autonomy and access to the full spectrum of reproductive care, no matter their income or the place they call home. However, access to reproductive services has become increasingly difficult, especially in Texas, and the lack of comprehensive care leads to unintended pregnancies and births. Unintended pregnancy, including teen pregnancy, is associated with a range of adverse outcomes for pregnant youth, adults, their families, and communities.

The Foundation invests in efforts to advance reproductive justice such as advocacy initiatives, community organizing and legal strategies, and values work that centers the vision and voices of those most burdened by restrictions on reproductive rights.

Parks & Open Space

Parks, trails and open spaces provide places for children, families and communities to connect with nature and each other. Parks provide opportunities for physical activity, support mental well-being and allow people to gain appreciation for the natural world. However, many residents within the Foundation’s geographies of interest do not live within the recommended 10-minute walk of a park, and there are disparities in the quality of local parks across communities.

The Foundation invests in efforts to develop and improve community parks and trail networks in central Texas, greater Houston and southwestern Colorado. The Foundation values park initiatives that benefit neighborhoods with a history of disinvestment, as well as efforts that engage residents in their design and implementation.

Environmental Literacy

Along with building critical thinking skills and improving academic achievement, environmental education enhances connections with nature and encourages future environmental stewardship. Ensuring that all children and youth have access to high-quality environmental education – particularly in the outdoors – will build knowledge, skills and motivation to tackle environmental challenges of today and tomorrow.

The Foundation invests in evidence-based environmental education programs, and values efforts that incorporate experiential learning, highlight local ecosystems, emphasize principles of environmental justice and are designed to benefit youth who have limited access to nature and are contending with environmental harms.

Animal Care Facilities

To maintain a healthy ecological balance, it is vital that we protect and care for animals, both domestic and wild. However, the built environment and human activity present hazards to wildlife within the Foundation’s geographic areas of interest, and challenges related to stray dogs and cats, animal cruelty, and pet ownership are pervasive.

The Foundation invests in organizations within central Texas, greater Houston and southwestern Colorado that rehabilitate ill or injured wildlife, as well as facilities that provide comprehensive, low-cost services for domestic animals. In addition, the Foundation is interested in efforts to create a more coordinated and efficient system of animal care in our communities.

Recreation Grants has been assisting hundreds of communities across Texas with their outdoor recreation needs since 1965 through our grant assistance and outreach programs. From the largest metropolis to the smallest rural community these programs help to build new parks, conserve natural resources, provide access to water bodies, develop educational programs for youth, and much more. Providing grants to communities across Texas helps build access to outdoor experiences and encourages a connection with nature that is vital for promoting conservation and good environmental stewardship among Texans young and old.

Through our programs we build long-term partnerships that assist TPWD in our mission to manage and conserve the natural and cultural resources of Texas and to provide hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

Recreational Trails Grants

TPWD administers the National Recreational Trails Fund in Texas under the approval of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). This federally funded program receives its funding from a portion of federal gas taxes paid on fuel used in non-highway recreational vehicles.

The reimbursable grants can be up to 80% of project cost with a maximum of $200,000 for non-motorized trail grants and a maximum award of $400,000 for motorized (off-highway vehicle) trail grants.

Funds can be spent on both motorized and non-motorized recreational trail projects such as:

• the construction of new recreational trails,
• to improve existing trails,
• to develop trailheads or trailside facilities, and
• to acquire trail corridors. 

Who We Are

The CenterPoint Energy Foundation (“Foundation”) strives to be a catalyst in our communities by leveraging everyday opportunities and resources to achieve extraordinary outcomes. That’s why we invest in initiatives that not only improve our stakeholders’ lives today, but also build a strong foundation for tomorrow. Our corporate giving focuses on fostering a high quality of life in the communities we serve.

CenterPoint Energy recognizes that our success – and the success of our neighbors – is inextricably linked to the vibrancy of our communities. We seek to improve the communities we serve by supporting programs encouraging community connections, improving the quality of life and promoting inclusion to help communities thrive. We recognize an educated and engaged community is critical to the future of our business and our communities. We are committed to ensuring all students have the opportunities and tools they need to succeed academically, explore potential careers and be equipped to enter the workforce.

Funding Priorities

Our funding targets innovative, effective and measurable programs enhancing the quality of life within our communities and support the following giving pillars: Community Vitality and Education. Priority consideration is given to programs serving low- to moderate income populations. Key focus areas within the giving pillars include:

Community Vitality

• Affordable Housing:
  • Initiatives leading to increased access to quality, affordable and energy efficient housing
• Environment:
  • Energy Efficiency and conservation efforts as well as environmental education programs
• Thriving Communities:
  • Quality of Place and resident-led initiatives leading to vibrant neighborhoods

Education

• Literacy:
  • Literacy and tutoring programs focused on early childhood through adult learners
• STEM Programs:
  • STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) education programs targeted to under resourced areas; Digital device access
• Workforce Development:
  • Programs addressing needs of our communities; credentialing programs providing skills for living wage jobs

Mission

The Mary Moody Northen Endowment is a charitable foundation which awards grants to support environmental, social service, educational and historical projects benefitting people and institutions in Virginia and Texas.

Galveston Community Impact Grants Goals

The Endowment Board of Directors has expressed its collective interest in considering grants that enable an organization to purchase equipment, furniture and fixtures, supplies and materials essential to the delivery of services and/or accomplishment of its mission. Additionally, the renovation of facilities and/or improvement of energy efficiency of facilities are of particular interest to the board. In all requests, the board is interested in specific details in order to be able to give full consideration to the request.

The Endowment’s Board has expressed interest in supporting specific programs within an organization’s operation. Any request for this kind of funding should include a detailed program budget.

The board will take into consideration whether a request leverages funds not otherwise available to the organization as well as cooperation with other organizations to serve shared clients.

The Texas A&M Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry Program works with communities to help build sustainable programs that ensure healthy trees and forests. Healthy trees and forests are essential to the economic, environmental, physical and mental well-being of the community. Grant proposals that complement existing regional and national initiatives such as Healthy Trees, Healthy Lives, Climate Resiliency and Tree Equity are encouraged.

Grant Categories

Climate Resiliency

With changing climatic conditions, native trees and forests in urban areas are becoming more vulnerable due to changes in environmental conditions, increased susceptance to pests and diseases, and more frequent extreme weather events. Grants in this category will address issues of species vulnerability and diversity, especially in historically disadvantaged communities, and develop tools and strategies that not only increase urban tree cover and the related benefits those communities will receive, but also lead to a more resilient community forest.

Human Health Equity and Accessibility

Human health issues are global concerns now and for the foreseeable future. They are of particular concern in historically disadvantaged communities where community investment has not kept pace with depreciation. Projects in this category should demonstrate a framework for identifying nature-based solutions to optimize public health benefits and develop tools and strategies that lead to greater access to treescapes and the benefits they provide.

Funding

One award of $50,000 each, for each category. An applicant may apply for more than one category but will only be awarded one grant per organization.

Forever Austin Fund

About this grant opportunity

The Forever Austin Fund is a permanent community resource that enables ACF to invest in Austin’s most pressing needs and greatest opportunities. The Forever Austin Fund supports the giving of a collection of field-of-interest funds, unrestricted funds, and donor advised funds at the Foundation. The ACF team manages grantmaking from these funds, thoughtfully balancing the intent of each fund with the evolving needs of Central Texas.

Funding areas

Every year, ACF will make Forever Austin Fund grants to address both urgent and systemic needs in Central Texas. The issues prioritized in Forever Austin Fund grantmaking will shift over time to reflect the evolving needs of our region and the interests of our legacy donors. In 2025, the grants will focus on the following areas:

Economic Mobility: Ensuring paths to economic mobility for Central Texans is a critical strategy in ACF’s focus on closing the opportunity gap. By partnering with and funding organizations that tackle immediate and systemic economic challenges, we aim to eliminate wealth disparities and create lasting change. Grants in this category will focus on four key areas:

Health and Humanities: The future of our region is inextricably linked to the health of our people and the growth of our creative community. Grants in this category will focus on:

Nurturing Our Region: Preserving and protecting our rich ecosystem ensures generations of Central Texans can live and thrive. Grants in this category will focus on:

Funding amounts

Through the Forever Austin Fund grant cycle, we anticipate awarding 50-75 grants between $5,000 – $50,000 each. Award amounts will be determined by application scores, donor priorities, and individual endowment budgets. Grants may be approved for full or partial funding of the requested amount, which cannot exceed 30% of the organization’s budget.

Additional information per funding area:

• Economic Mobility: 20-30 grants, up to $1,250,000
• Health and Humanities: 15-20 grants up to $550,000
• Nurturing Our Region: 10-15 grants up to $200,000