Best Volunteer Grants in Georgia

The Georgia Making the Shade Program Grant aims to enhance elementary school campuses by funding the planting of trees in playground areas. With grants up to $10,000, eligible applicants include schools, PTAs, and community groups. The program promotes healthier environments by reducing UV exposure, improving air quality, and creating shaded spaces for children. It encourages community involvement through local partnerships and aims to foster educational activities around tree planting and maintenance.

Honda’s Community Event Sponsorship aims to support local, regional, and national events that enhance community engagement and celebrate diverse cultures. Organizations must be U.S.-based and tax-exempt, focusing on projects that serve communities where Honda associates are active. Eligible events include parades, festivals, and educational initiatives. Honda evaluates requests based on community needs and available funding, reinforcing its commitment to social responsibility and community enhancement.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

The Corporate Giving Program by the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation focuses on supporting nonprofit organizations within specific states. They prioritize initiatives that enhance community welfare, especially in agriculture, education, health, and environmental sustainability. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status to apply, and preference is given to those involving Perdue associates. Ineligible requests include those from religious, political, or individual-focused groups. This program emphasizes broad community benefits over organizational affiliations.

The John Deere FIRST Robotics Competition grant aims to enhance diversity and inclusion in STEM by supporting teams in underserved communities. Teams must apply for funding before registration and meet specific eligibility criteria. This grant promotes equity in engineering and technology through mentorship and community support, aligning with John Deere's commitment to reach one million underserved youth by 2030. Priority is given to teams with confirmed John Deere mentors and those meeting diverse participation requirements.

Friends of NRA

Friends of NRA is the National Rifle Association’s premier fundraising program, supporting the future of shooting sports. Since day one, Friends of NRA has been a 100% grassroots effort fueled by a united front to secure the Second Amendment and raise money for the shooting sports.

Committee volunteers are appointed to State Fund Committees to make recommendations for local grant funding in areas such as youth education, women-focused clinics, law enforcement training, hunter safety, range improvement, firearms and marksmanship training and safety. Recognizing the impact American youth has on the future of the shooting sports, State Fund Committees frequently recommend grants for youth programs, allocating the most significant portion of monies to this vital area.

Grant awards fund activities and support programs in the United States to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those in the shooting sports, and to educate the public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context.

Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program - Georgia

The Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program provides supplies, equipment, and financial support to a variety of qualified groups and programs at the local level; geared towards youth, women, law enforcement, veterans, the disabled, and the general public, including:

• General shooting programs
• Competitive shooting
• Education, training and safety
• Hunting and conservation
• Community outreach
• Historical education

Grant funding must be used to further a charitable purpose as defined by the Internal Revenue Code under section 501(c)(3) and accompanying rules, regulations, and other IRS law and materials.

About Us

Georgia’s Own Foundation, Inc. is the charitable arm of Georgia’s Own Credit Union and was founded in 2016 as a way to deepen and amplify the outreach efforts of the organization.

Mission

Since 1934, Georgia’s Own Credit Union has been committed to the “people helping people” philosophy. We not only strive to serve our members’ financial needs, but to give back to our communities and empower local youth through financial assistance and volunteer opportunities. Our goal is to improve what matters by helping people get ahead, get involved, and own their future.

Georgia's Own Grant

At least 85% of the Foundation’s grants must fall within our mission of empowering local youth. Past grantees have used their funds to promote children’s wellbeing through financial literacy, sports-based youth development, access to healthcare, food, and housing, education, the arts, and more.

Each year a small amount may be allocated outside these areas, which enables us to respond to unplanned opportunities and meet unknown needs.

Grant Size

Georgia’s Own Foundation is proud to partner with non-profits in our community through an annual grant program. The total amount awarded will be determined by the previous year’s fundraising efforts, and individual grants may vary in size—up to, but not to exceed $10,000. Larger grants will be made possible through special fundraising events such as our annual Golf Challenge.

What We Support

The Georgia’s Own Foundation funds proven programs OR new/expanding initiatives run by qualified nonprofits that empower local youth in the following categories:

• Literacy
• Financial Literacy
• Food Insecurity
• Sports-Based Youth Development
• Children’s Healthcare
• Career Readiness/Workforce Development
• Mentorship
• Arts Education
• Mental Health
• Disability Services

The Perot-Fiero Foundation Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, aims to enhance community welfare by supporting 501(c)(3) organizations and churches in Macon-Bibb County. Focus areas include tutoring, meal programs, transportation, and assistance for the physically or mentally disabled. With a total of approximately $40,000 available per grant cycle, the fund seeks to empower local organizations committed to fostering strong, thriving communities through targeted philanthropic efforts.

The JDF: FIRST LEGO League Explore Grant Program, supported by the John Deere Foundation, aims to enhance participation in STEM for underserved youth. Teams must apply for the grant before registration and ensure compliance with eligibility criteria, including training requirements. This initiative is part of John Deere's commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in technology and engineering fields, ultimately seeking to impact one million youth by 2030.

The John Deere FIRST LEGO League Discover program aims to support equity, diversity, and inclusion in STEM fields by providing grants to teams that meet specific eligibility criteria. Teams must be associated with an educational institution or nonprofit and demonstrate a commitment to recruiting underserved and underrepresented students. The initiative is part of John Deere’s goal to empower one million youth by 2030, fostering innovation and better decision-making in local communities.

The Clayton and Carol Paul Fund for Animal Welfare Grant, managed by the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, aims to provide financial support to various animal welfare organizations. Eligible recipients include humane societies, shelters, and wildlife rehabilitators operating in Central Georgia. The Fund prioritizes projects that effectively reduce stray animal populations and alleviate suffering, enhancing the quality of life for animals and communities alike.

The Robert W. Woodruff Foundation offers the Community Development Grant to enhance life quality in Georgia through investments in health, education, and community initiatives. Grant applications are accepted year-round, with deadlines of February 1 and August 15 for review in April and November, respectively. The Foundation prioritizes projects that benefit downtown Atlanta, support regional cooperation, and have strong community backing. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities located in Georgia to be eligible.

The Robert W. Woodruff Foundation offers environment grants aimed at improving the quality of life in Georgia through initiatives in conservation and education. It primarily supports organizations in metro Atlanta, especially those with a proven track record and strong leadership. Grants are provided for the Joseph W. Jones Ecological Research Center and other environmental projects, emphasizing collaboration with community-led efforts. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) public charities with substantial operating budgets.

The Robert W. Woodruff Foundation offers health grants aimed at enhancing the quality of life in Georgia. It accepts applications year-round, with deadlines on February 1 and August 15 for board consideration. The Foundation prioritizes funding initiatives that improve health systems, access to quality care, and support for underserved populations in Atlanta. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities operating in Georgia to be eligible. The Foundation values collaboration and sustainable programs.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Georgia Rothberg Nursing Scholarship Fund

Georgia Rothberg was a school nurse. She as very concerned about cancer research and volunteered many hours with the American Cancer Society. In establishing this scholarship fund, it was Georgia's hope that dedicated nursing careers would develop from this assistance, and that the scholarship recipients share the value of their education with the community. This scholarship was designed to provide financial assistance to individuals who are currently providing nursing services or desire to provide nursing services in the Battle Creek area for educational expenses incurred to obtain nursing degrees and/or continuing nursing education for those who have already obtained nursing degrees. Scholarship recipients are selected on the basis of academic performance, financial need, character and citizenship, and motivation to succeed.

Florence and Jack Sims Memorial Scholarship

The Florence and Jack Sims Memorial Scholarship Fund was established at the North Georgia Community Foundation in 2014. The Sims were active participants and supporters of their communities and the Baptist Church in White, Hall, and Oglethorpe Counties. Their Christian beliefs led them to follow Christ’s teaching in Matthew 22: v37-40 – to first love God and second to love thy neighbor as thyself. The Fund was established by their three children- Jackie, Michael, and Hal- to honor their faith and memory.

Recipients must attend a high school located in Hall County or White County, GA, or be homeschooled students residing in Hall County or White County, GA, and plan to attend an accredited U.S. college or university. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and should demonstrate active involvement in extracurricular and/or community activities such as volunteering, work, and church activities. In 2026, one scholarship award of $2,000 will be offered.

Fund the Dream Scholarship

The Fund the Dream Scholarship Fund was established in 2022 by the Hispanic Alliance, GA. The purpose of this scholarship is to ‘Build the Dream, One Graduate at a Time.’ Minority students from first-generation/low-income backgrounds face systemic roadblocks while navigating the college admissions process. Graduating seniors coming from low-income families are seven times more likely to drop out than those from families with higher income. In addition, 74% of Latino students enrolled in colleges and universities in the U.S. cut their education short due to the financial pressures of supporting their families. To help mitigate the educational opportunity gap and student debt crisis, the Hispanic Alliance Georgia Fund the Dream Scholarship will support one student who has huge aspirations for their life and is willing to work through anything to achieve them. This scholarship is funded by proceeds from the annual Latino Fest in Gainesville, Georgia and is part of our commitment to making academic and scholarship support more accessible for all students.

When choosing a recipient, the selection committee will take into consideration factors such as the applicant’s academic achievement, financial need, immigration status, volunteering efforts, future educational goals, and responses to essay question. Special consideration will be given to students participating in the Latino Youth Leadership Academy. The 2026 scholarship will be a one-time award of $1,500.

The Rotary Club of Forsyth County offers the Service Above Self Presidents' Scholarship to graduating seniors from Forsyth County, Georgia, who show a commitment to community service. Two scholarships will be awarded in 2026, one for a student from North Forsyth High School and one from Forsyth Central High School. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens, residents of Forsyth County, and intend to attend a public institution in Georgia, with preference given to those demonstrating financial need.

The Siamak Yari Engineering Scholarship, funded by the North Georgia Community Foundation, offers a one-time award to full-time college juniors or seniors pursuing engineering degrees at accredited institutions in Georgia. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate financial need. Preference is given to students from minority or immigrant backgrounds, fostering diversity in the engineering field while supporting the educational aspirations of local residents.

The Katherine 'Trinka' Davis Rhynne Grant, established in 2009, honors the legacy of Ms. Davis, a successful businesswoman dedicated to helping veterans and their families. This fund supports nonprofit organizations providing direct assistance to veterans in Carroll County, Georgia. Grants are limited to unique projects per cycle, ensuring fair distribution of resources. Ms. Davis's commitment to her community and her efforts to rebuild her company after a devastating fire serve as an inspiring example of resilience and dedication.

The FFLF Pearl Investment Initiative Grant, offered by the Friends For Life Foundation, Inc., aims to improve the quality of life for disadvantaged residents in North Fulton, Georgia. The grant supports community-driven projects that empower individuals through education, health, and family initiatives. Non-profit organizations and government entities are eligible to apply, provided they demonstrate the capacity to effectively implement their proposed projects. The next application cycle opens in May 2025.

The Michele Panuccio Memorial Grant offers financial assistance for field research focused on raptor migration and conservation in Europe, specifically for researchers under 35 years old. Established in 2021 to honor ornithologist Michele Panuccio, the grant provides up to $3,500 and waived publication fees in the Journal of Raptor Research. The recipient must be the primary author, ensuring their work reflects the purpose of this grant.

The Georgia ReLeaf Grant Program, initiated by the Georgia Tree Council and Georgia Forestry Commission, aims to restore community forests affected by tornadoes in 2011. It funds tree planting and giveaway projects to enhance environmental health and promote tree equity in underserved areas. The program emphasizes canopy restoration, supports diverse community forests, and involves local governments in project planning and implementation. Funding is available for tree purchase and related costs, empowering communities to combat climate change and improve urban landscapes.

The Higher Foundation Scholarship provides $2,000 in merit-based financial assistance to Georgia college students, supporting their essential needs. Recipients are chosen based on academic achievement, career development, and commitment to community service. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in an accredited Georgia institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and have a year of volunteer experience. This scholarship aims to empower students to thrive in their educational journeys.

The CFWG Community Impact Grant supports charitable organizations in Carroll, Haralson, and Heard counties through an annual competitive grant process. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations that have operated for at least two years and provide services in specified areas. Grants are awarded for projects in arts, education, environment, and social services, with a focus on addressing significant community needs and demonstrating resource mobilization capabilities.

The John Deere FIRST LEGO League Challenge aims to enhance equity, diversity, and inclusion in STEM by supporting teams from underserved communities. Eligible teams must have a John Deere mentor and meet specific criteria related to student demographics. Grants will be awarded to teams that demonstrate commitment to community engagement and volunteerism. This initiative aligns with John Deere’s goal to reach one million underserved youth by 2030, fostering innovation and creativity in future generations.

The Alice Huffard Richards Fund provides environmental grants aimed at conserving and stewarding the natural resources of the West Georgia Region. The fund supports 501(c)(3) nonprofits engaged in river monitoring, recycling projects, and community education initiatives. Grants are specifically for projects in Carroll, Haralson, or Heard counties, promoting environmental awareness and community engagement to protect local ecosystems. This initiative empowers individuals to contribute meaningfully to their environment.