Best Franklin County Grants for Nonprofits in Maine

Roy F. Mather Scholarship

Born in 1918, Roy F. Mather, Jr. described himself as the product of the Great Depression. He contributed to his family's livelihood at a young age, caring for his two younger brothers and working a wide range of agriculture-related jobs available in California's San Fernando Valley. During World War II, Roy worked on merchant ships that sailed from northern Chile to Washington's Puget Sound, transporting nitrate for explosives production. After the War, Roy returned to southern California to marry his wife, Geraldine. They had two children and were married 59 years. Roy applied the work ethic developed in his youth to a variety of jobs—as a Fuller Brush dealer and at aeronautical engineering positions at Lockheed and McDonald Douglas. While raising a family and often working more than one job, Roy took classes at night offered through the University of California's extension services – math, science and law. Later, Roy and his wife lived in Latin America which held a special place for them.

Roy retired in 1969, and he and Geraldine moved to the Sierra Nevada Mountains. In his early 60's, Roy could swing a heavy Polanski needed to fight forest fires and later was a spotter for firefighting aircraft. In 1975, Roy and Geraldine moved to Vancouver, Washington.

Roy's character, direction and drive were shaped during times that were much tougher than most of us experience today. In commenting on his hope for his scholarship fund, Roy said, "I want the students to be goal oriented and serious. Earnest, really. I know those are broad terms, but they are ones that helped me throughout my life. I want to reward those students who possess these qualities that will contribute to their future success and life fulfillment."

Award Information

Awards are between $2,000 - $3,500 and are at the discretion of the committee.

Wegmans Family Foundation Inc focuses on cultivating healthy communities through support for hunger relief, health initiatives, education, and youth programs. They prioritize collaborations with local nonprofits to enhance community well-being, offering assistance in key areas like economic mobility and youth engagement. Despite their wide-ranging support, they have specific ineligibility criteria, such as not accommodating personal requests or solicitation on their property, aiming to direct resources effectively where they are needed most.

The Dale Jr. Foundation is dedicated to empowering underprivileged youth through targeted support in five key areas: Empowerment, Education, Wellness, Hunger, and Hope. By providing safe homes, educational resources, and healthy food, the foundation helps children overcome adversity and achieve their dreams. Their commitment extends to various charities, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive. The foundation emphasizes community support and holistic care, making a significant impact in the lives of many young people.

The Ralph M. Knight Chemistry & Engineering Scholarship, established in 2010 by Nancy Knight, honors her late husband, Ralph. This scholarship is aimed at full-time seniors in Catholic high schools within the Diocese of Phoenix who are practicing Catholics and U.S. citizens. Awardees receive a one-time $5,000 towards freshman-year tuition at a four-year college or university, provided they major in chemistry or engineering.

The R A Bowen Trust Scholarship, established in 1943 by Mr. Robert A. Bowen, Sr., supports deserving students from central Georgia pursuing higher education. This private scholarship aims to empower full-time students accepted into accredited four-year colleges or universities. Eligible candidates must reside in specific Georgia counties or plan to attend select institutions in Macon, GA. The Trust has a strong legacy of generosity, continuing to benefit local nonprofits and students for over four generations.

The NAPB Borlaug Undergraduate Scholars program, established by the National Association of Plant Breeders, aims to cultivate future leaders in plant breeding. Open to undergraduates in relevant disciplines, the program provides mentorship opportunities and financial support for travel to the NAPB Annual Meeting. Those eligible must be current undergraduates and may not have received similar scholarships previously. This initiative fosters professional development and engagement in the field of plant improvement.

The Tribal Scholar Grant, offered by the Jeannette Rankin Foundation, supports women, nonbinary, and Two-Spirit students aged 25 and older attending Tribal Colleges. Grants of up to $2,500 annually are available, renewable for up to five years. This initiative aims to empower students pursuing technical or vocational education, associate’s, or bachelor’s degrees while addressing financial needs and promoting educational access for marginalized communities.

The Corey C. Griffin Scholarship, offered by the Yellowstone Club Community Foundation, awards two $5,000 scholarships to high school seniors. This initiative honors Corey C. Griffin’s legacy by recognizing students who embody his 'never quit' attitude and commitment to community service. Eligible applicants must attend specific high schools and have applied to a post-secondary institution. Note that children of Yellowstone Club employees at the Director level are not eligible for this merit-based scholarship.

The CTTSS Graduate Students Research Award, offered by the Society of Toxicology, recognizes outstanding research by current Ph.D. students in translational and clinical toxicology. Recipients are announced at the SOT Annual Meeting, with the first-place winner receiving a cash award and certificate. This award aims to encourage innovation and academic growth among graduate students in the field of toxicology, enhancing the impact of their research on human, animal, and environmental health.

The Jeannette Rankin National Scholar Grant supports women and nonbinary students aged 35 and older, providing up to $2,500 annually for technical or vocational education, associate’s degrees, or first bachelor’s degrees. This grant, renewable for up to five years, aims to empower those facing financial need, fostering better futures for American women. Recipients are selected based on their applications, ensuring that all candidates are informed about their status.

The Emerge Grant, established by the Jeannette Rankin Foundation, supports women and nonbinary individuals aged 25 and older from Georgia and Montana. With grants up to $2,500 annually, recipients can pursue technical, vocational, or degree programs at accredited U.S. institutions. This initiative, rooted in Rankin's legacy, aims to empower those demonstrating financial need. Applicants will be informed about their status, ensuring transparency in the selection process.

The Charles E. Crow Memorial Scholarship Fund, established in 1953, supports graduates of Big Pasture High School in Randlett, Oklahoma, by providing a one-year scholarship up to $5,000. This initiative aims to enhance educational opportunities for students pursuing college, community college, or trade school certifications. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.8. By investing in the potential of local youth, this fund contributes to building thriving communities and advancing equity in education.

The Carter Creech Scholarship offers financial support up to $8,000 for graduating seniors of Troy Buchanan High School in Missouri who aim to pursue a four-year degree. Eligible candidates must maintain a minimum 3.5 GPA, achieve an ACT score of 27 or higher, and rank in the top 10% of their class. This scholarship encourages academic excellence and allows recipients to reapply annually for up to $32,000 over four years, fostering educational opportunities in the community.

The Jack Ford Shelby Scholarship Fund, established in 1953, supports graduating seniors from Littlefield High School in Texas with scholarships up to $5,000 for pursuing a baccalaureate degree at accredited colleges or universities. This initiative aims to enhance community health and equity by investing in the education of local students, ensuring they have the necessary resources to succeed academically and contribute positively to society.

The Grady Graves Scholarship Fund, established in 1953, aims to uplift the community by providing scholarships of up to $20,000 for graduating seniors of Crowell High School in Texas. Focused on enhancing health, wealth, and education, this initiative fosters a culture of giving and equity. By partnering with local donors and organizations, the fund plays a vital role in shaping a brighter future for students and the broader community.

The AAUW Community Action Grants provide up to $75,000 to support nonprofits and educational institutions that empower girls in grades K–12 to succeed in STEM fields. By fostering hands-on learning, mentorship, and family involvement, these grants aim to build confidence and skills among girls, especially those from underrepresented communities. AAUW believes that immersive STEM environments and relatable role models can inspire lasting interest and help close the gender gap in leadership and careers.

The AAUW Branch and State Affiliate Community Action Grants aim to empower AAUW branches and state organizations by providing up to $10,000 for innovative STEM programming targeted at girls in grades K-12. This initiative is designed to foster hands-on learning experiences, expand local impact, and showcase AAUW's commitment to gender equity in STEM. By collaborating with other organizations, AAUW seeks to build confidence and inspire the next generation of female STEM leaders.

The MAA Tensor Grant Program, supported by the Tensor Foundation, aims to enrich mathematics education for underrepresented students. It encourages women and pre-college girls to pursue mathematics while also supporting historically underrepresented groups, including Black, Hispanic, and Native American students. Each project can receive up to $8,000 in funding, with a focus on clear plans to achieve the program's goals. This initiative fosters a diverse mathematics community and enhances student engagement.

The Creative Economy Fund offers vital support to digital creators and entertainment professionals affected by the LA Wildfires. Catering to individuals in film, music, and performing arts, this fund provides assistance for those who have experienced home loss or damage. Eligible applicants include direct creators, employees of talent agencies, and other creative professionals, ensuring a broad reach within the entertainment community. With a focus on personalized resources and guidance, the fund aims to foster resilience in a challenging industry.

The Procter & Gamble U.S. Large Site Community Grant supports initiatives that enhance the lives of individuals within 50 miles of P&G facilities. Focused on areas like infant development and hygiene, this competitive grant seeks to partner with organizations aligned with its mission. Interested groups should verify eligibility through the P&G grant portal. While many applications are received, only a select few will be funded due to high demand.

The Leonard Litz Foundation-Silver Connect Initiative aims to enhance the quality of life for LGBTQ+ older adults by providing grant funding to nonprofit organizations. This program addresses isolation and barriers faced by seniors, particularly those affected by disability, race, or economic hardship. By supporting community-driven models, Silver Connect promotes dignity, safety, and inclusion, ensuring that LGBTQ+ elders have access to necessary resources and affirming services across the Eastern United States.

The Fertility Grants (VIVA Program) by the Bob Woodruff Foundation offer vital financial support to wounded veterans facing infertility challenges due to their service-related conditions. Since its inception, the program has assisted over 100 veteran families in starting their own, highlighting a commitment to ensuring veterans have access to necessary fertility treatments. This initiative addresses the unique needs of veterans, recognizing that they experience infertility at nearly double the rate of the general population.

The SAF National Awards Program recognizes excellence in forestry through various awards, including the Award in Forest Science. This award acknowledges significant research contributions in quantitative, economic, managerial, and social sciences, promoting advancements in forestry. Recipients receive a $1,000 honorarium, a complimentary SAF convention registration, and travel expense support. Established in 1996, this award highlights the importance of innovative research that impacts both national and international forestry practices.

The SAF National Awards Program recognizes excellence in forestry through various awards, including the Barrington Moore Memorial Award in Biological Science. This award honors individuals for significant contributions to biological research that advances forestry practices. It includes a $1,000 honorarium, convention registration, and travel support. The award celebrates leaders in forest ecology, soil science, and other related fields, promoting innovation and collaboration in forestry research.

The SAF National Awards Program honors exceptional contributions to forestry through various awards, including the Technology Transfer Award. This award recognizes significant achievements in technology transfer, ensuring vital technical information reaches those involved in forestry management. It includes a $1,000 honorarium and other benefits presented at the SAF national convention. Nominees must be active members of the Society of American Foresters and demonstrate leadership and impact in their field.

The Outstanding Forestry Journalism Award recognizes exceptional journalistic work that enhances public understanding of forestry and natural resources. Open to all journalists, it encourages submissions in various formats, including articles, documentaries, and ongoing coverage. The award offers a $500 honorarium, complimentary SAF convention registration, and up to $500 for travel expenses. This initiative highlights the crucial role of effective communication in promoting sustainable forestry practices and educating the public about environmental issues.

The W. D. Hagenstein Communicator Award honors an SAF member for their outstanding communication efforts in forestry. Recognizing innovative initiatives that enhance public understanding of forestry and natural resources, this award is presented at the SAF National Convention. It includes a $500 honorarium and up to $500 for travel expenses. Nominees must be SAF members and should not have received the Technology Transfer Award in the past five years. This award emphasizes the importance of effective communication in advancing forestry.