Best Grants for Special Education in Michigan

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

The Vera and Joseph Dresner Foundation supports organizations in Southeast Michigan and Metropolitan Denver focused on improving lives through health, youth, and animal welfare initiatives. They offer grants for project development, capital expenses, and unique circumstances. The foundation prioritizes innovative solutions that address underserved community needs, ensuring sustainable impact and enhanced access to essential services. Applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations and demonstrate non-discriminatory practices in their operations.

About

Originally conceived by Dr Bruce Mesara in 1990 as a means to carry on his philanthropic efforts beyond his lifetime, the Mesara Family Foundation was re-envisioned by his two children Amy and Douglas in 2014, and received their 501(c)(3) status from the IRS in 2015. Amy and Douglas sought out the assistance of their cousins to build upon the charitable principals on their parents, aunts and uncles.

The foundation is headquartered in Kalamazoo Michigan.

Mission

The mission of the Mesara Family Foundation is to honor the philanthropic principles of the Mesara and Pauch families by supporting carefully selected organizations that share similar values. Our focus is to provide support toward education, conservation and other causes of special family interest where our funding will make a genuine difference.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The Valero Energy Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations that align with their mission to improve the quality of life in communities where Valero operates. With a focus on basic needs, health care, education, and civic initiatives, the foundation prioritizes funding requests from 501(c)(3) organizations. In 2019, it provided approximately $40 million to support disadvantaged children and families, emphasizing a commitment to corporate citizenship and community well-being.

The James A. Welch Foundation, established in 1960, has committed over two million dollars to enhance educational opportunities for gifted students in Flint and Genesee County, Michigan. Recognizing the increasing complexity of educational pathways, the Foundation encourages initiatives that identify and support academically and creatively talented youth. By fostering growth and development, the Foundation aims to nurture a community of learners prepared to thrive in a dynamic global society.

The Joyce Foundation's Democracy Grants aim to enhance participation and representation in the electoral process across the Great Lakes region. With a focus on combating voter suppression, gerrymandering, and disinformation, the Foundation supports policy changes that protect voting rights and ensure fair representation. Through public engagement and litigation, it seeks to empower communities of color and young voters, fostering a more equitable democracy for all residents.

The Michigan Sugar Company FFA Mini-Grant aims to support FFA chapters in advancing agricultural education within its growing region. Grants between $500 and $3,000 will be awarded to eligible institutions, focusing on establishing new chapters and enhancing educational resources. Applications are welcomed from any FFA chapter or school district committed to agricultural education. Preference will be given to proposals that include matching funds. This initiative reflects Michigan Sugar Company's dedication to community involvement and responsible growth.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

The Penn National Gaming Foundation Grants support various community initiatives across North America, emphasizing education, health services, and cultural affairs. Launched post-Hurricane Katrina, the foundation aids local nonprofits, enhancing community development, public safety, and veteran support. The grants cater to organizations that address the needs of children, senior citizens, and disadvantaged populations, ensuring a broad impact in areas where Penn National Gaming operates. This commitment reflects the foundation's dedication to uplifting communities and fostering resilience.

The Four County Community Foundation Grant Program supports innovative projects in education, health, and community services across several Michigan counties. Grants are available for non-profit organizations, schools, and governmental agencies to enhance community welfare. Priority is given to projects that address unmet needs and foster collaboration. Notable programs include the Healthy Seniors/Healthy Youth Grants and the 21st Century Education Grants, which aim to improve the lives of local residents.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The Allen Foundation Grant supports initiatives that enhance human nutrition through research, education, and training. It prioritizes projects that develop nutritional programs, including mandatory nutrition courses in medical schools and sustainable food systems. Eligible applicants must be U.S.-based non-profits or governmental entities with a focus on nutrition education and research. The foundation encourages proposals that include matching funds and has specific criteria for academic research and budgetary self-sufficiency.

The Allen Foundation, named in honor of William Webster Allen, operates under the laws of the State of Michigan with offices in Midland. Grants are limited under the terms of the foundation's charter to projects that primarily benefit programs for human nutrition in the areas of health, education, training, and research.

Policies and Priorities

• To make grants to fund relevant nutritional research.
• To support programs for the education and training of mothers during pregnancy and after the birth of their children, so that good nutritional habits can be formed at an early age.
• To assist in the training of persons to work as educators and demonstrators of good nutritional practices. 
• To encourage the dissemination of information regarding healthful nutritional practices and habits. 
• In limited situations to make grants to help solve immediate emergency hunger and malnutrition problems.

The connections between diet and health remain a basic and primary priority, and consideration has always been given to projects that benefit nutritional programs in the areas of education, training, and research.

Low priority has traditionally been given to proposals that help solve immediate or emergency hunger and malnutrition problems. The foundation welcomes proposals that develop and advance:

• the inclusion of mandatory courses in nutrition in medical schools;
• bringing the promise of nutrigenomics or nutritional genomics to realization; and
• the promotion of environmentally sound, economically viable, socially responsive, and sustainable food and agricultural systems.

We also support environmental initiatives that strengthen sustainable food systems and address the root causes of hunger and inequity through sustainable agriculture, academic research, and promoting long-term community health and resilience.

The Allen Foundation, named in honor of William Webster Allen, operates under the laws of the State of Michigan with offices in Midland. Grants are limited under the terms of the foundation's charter to projects that primarily benefit programs for human nutrition in the areas of health, education, training, and research.

Policies and Priorities

• To make grants to fund relevant nutritional research.
• To support programs for the education and training of mothers during pregnancy and after the birth of their children, so that good nutritional habits can be formed at an early age.
• To assist in the training of persons to work as educators and demonstrators of good nutritional practices. 
• To encourage the dissemination of information regarding healthful nutritional practices and habits. 
• In limited situations to make grants to help solve immediate emergency hunger and malnutrition problems.

The connections between diet and health remain a basic and primary priority, and consideration has always been given to projects that benefit nutritional programs in the areas of education, training, and research.

Low priority has traditionally been given to proposals that help solve immediate or emergency hunger and malnutrition problems. The foundation welcomes proposals that develop and advance:

• the inclusion of mandatory courses in nutrition in medical schools;
• bringing the promise of nutrigenomics or nutritional genomics to realization; and
• the promotion of environmentally sound, economically viable, socially responsive, and sustainable food and agricultural systems.

We also support environmental initiatives that strengthen sustainable food systems and address the root causes of hunger and inequity through sustainable agriculture, academic research, and promoting long-term community health and resilience.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

The Grand Haven Area Community Foundation's grants enhance the quality of life in Northwest Ottawa County by supporting projects in arts, diversity, economic development, education, environment, and health. They prioritize initiatives that foster inclusion, cultural experiences, community betterment, and sustainability. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) entities, government units, and educational institutions that demonstrate alignment with these goals. The foundation aims to empower local communities and ensure equitable access to resources for all residents.

The Berrien Community Foundation's "For Good" Grants support community projects in Berrien County, Michigan. These grants are available in two sizes: Major grants ($1,501-$15,000) and Minor grants (up to $1,500). Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) entities, schools, and government or religious organizations. The foundation prioritizes programs that are innovative, sustainable, and address critical local needs while fostering collaboration among community groups.

The Carls Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing children's welfare in Michigan and preserving natural areas. It supports non-profit organizations that are innovative and effective in their missions. Grant types include capital grants and seed money for multi-year projects. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) status. The foundation prioritizes health care programs, recreational opportunities for disadvantaged children, and environmental education, while excluding funding for individuals, endowments, or special events.

About Us

Bay Area Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization created by and for the people of the Bay Area. We offer a range of flexible giving tools to help our donors make a positive impact on the community and causes that align with their interests and passions. In addition to first-rate donor service, we manage our community’s permanent endowment and award grants to address the community’s most pressing needs and promising opportunities.

Since 1982, our community has used our resources to make charitable gifts more effective. We provide maximum flexibility in establishing, managing, and distributing your gifts. Through our donors’ generosity, we can help support arts and culture, community initiatives, education and youth, environment, health and wellness, human services, and recreation in our area.

Leslie L. Squires Foundation Grant

The Leslie L. Squires Foundation was established in 1987 by Jacqueline M. Squires in memory of her late husband, Leslie L. Squires. Both Jacqueline and Leslie were supportive of many civic and charitable organizations. Both also had compassion for people who have disabilities. As a result, the Squires Foundation was established to benefit Bay County, Michigan persons who are impaired physically or mentally. The Foundation's charitable purposes seek to improve "the social condition of persons with disabilities through education, entertainment, recreation, and special training in preparation for self-support and the full development of useful, happy lives".

Bay Area Community Foundation administers the grant process for the Leslie L. Squires Foundation.

The Gerber Foundation supports youth programs in West Michigan, focusing on projects benefiting children from birth to 18 years. Emphasizing health, nutrition, literacy, and education, grants typically are under $10,000, with an average size of less than $5,000. Collaborative programs are encouraged. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that enhance the quality of life for young children, particularly those in Lake, Muskegon, Newaygo, and Oceana Counties.

The Health Information Outreach Award, funded by the National Library of Medicine, aims to enhance access to essential health information for underrepresented populations and healthcare professionals. This initiative focuses on improving health literacy and equity through diverse projects, including training, technology access, and community outreach. Eligible organizations from select Midwestern states can apply, prioritizing innovative solutions that address health disparities and promote informed health decisions among vulnerable communities.

The Oleson Foundation Grant, established in 1962 by Gerald and Frances Oleson, aims to support charitable endeavors in Northwestern Lower Michigan. The foundation prioritizes sustainable projects that enhance the quality of life in the region, focusing on areas like arts, education, environment, community development, and health services. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and other non-profits, while the foundation excludes funding for individuals and certain project types.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

The Heart of Cook Grants support non-profit organizations, schools, and government units in furthering education, enhancing human services, and protecting the environment within Southwest Michigan and Northwest Indiana. With funding priorities focused on skill development, community independence, and environmental restoration, the grants aim to foster local leadership and innovative solutions. Eligible applicants may submit one application per cycle, with particular attention given to measurable outcomes and projects addressing emerging community needs.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.