Search Through Grants for After School Programs in Massachusetts in the U.S.

Arts and Creativity Program

Arts and creativity are essential for vibrant, vital, and engaged communities.

Elevating the arts and enabling creative expression to engage and inspire a dynamic, thriving Massachusetts.

Great art transforms the way we engage with the world. It brings beauty into our lives. Through creativity we can transcend conventions and generate new ideas, alternatives, and possibilities. Arts and creativity have the power to connect us with each other, to help us understand our dynamic environment, and to imagine new, better, different futures.

Against a backdrop of rapidly changing demographics, technological advancements, and evolving art forms, Barr’s Arts & Creativity program seeks to invest in bold ideas and leaders. Our overarching goal is to elevate the arts and enable creative expression to engage and inspire a dynamic, thriving Massachusetts. We will pursue this goal through three strategies:

• advancing the field’s capacity to adapt, take risks, and engage changing audiences in new ways;
• fostering opportunities to connect the arts to other disciplines and sectors; and
• activating public support for the arts.

Arts & Creativity Strategies

To achieve our goal of elevating the arts and enabling creative expression to engage and inspire a dynamic, thriving Massachusetts, we pursue three strategies:

• Adapting boldly
• Spanning sectors
• Activating public support

Grantmaking

You can learn about current investment priorities for Barr's Arts & Creativity program below:

• ArtsAmplified Initiative: Powerful art. Bold leadership. Vibrant communities. We're partnering with 15 accomplished arts organizations across Massachusetts to amplify their leadership in communities. Learn more here.
• Powering Cultural Futures Initiative: A six-year partnership with 15 community-rooted organizations to support BIPOC arts and communities, and advance a more equitable Massachusetts arts sector. Learn more here.
• Creative Commonwealth Initiative: Barr and eight Massachusetts community foundations are advancing diverse, equitable arts and creative expression through a ten-year initiative. Learn more here.
• Barr-Klarman Massachusetts Arts Initiative: A $25 million investment over six years in 29 Massachusetts arts organizations to strengthen financial health and capacity to adapt to change. Learn more here.

Climate Program

Bold action on climate change is necessary to create a just and healthy future.

Advancing equitable solutions for clean energy, mobility, and resilient communities.

To leave future generations a better world than the one we inherited, we must address climate change with solutions that acknowledge the unequal burdens that have been placed on communities of color and those who have been underserved and divested.

Climate change is a global challenge. Yet cities, states, and regions are vital agents of change. That’s why Barr’s Climate Program focuses on advancing equitable solutions and leadership at the local level.

Our Climate Strategies

To address climate change we pursue three strategies:

• Accelerating the shift to clean energy
• Transforming our transportation system
• Creating climate resilient communities

Underlying these strategies is our belief that we will be more effective at addressing the climate crisis if we build a multi-racial and inclusive environmental movement. This is why we will prioritize communities that have suffered the most from the fossil fuel economy and climate organizations whose work is centered in equity. Read more on our strategies below.

Clean Energy

Accelerate the expansion of renewable energy and energy efficiency.

To meet our ambitious climate goals, we must accelerate the shift to a low-carbon energy infrastructure.

The U.S. Northeast is at an energy crossroads. Successful efforts to phase out the dirtiest fuels, promote energy efficiency, and regulate carbon have put this region at the forefront of a global response to climate change. However, to achieve the necessary emissions reductions —80% by 2050—will require a concerted push to deploy cleaner energy sources and achieve deeper efficiencies.

Priorities:

• Build a diverse constituency for clean energy.
• Mobilize key stakeholders to advocate for equitable state and regional clean energy policies and programs.
• Promote a narrative connecting the benefits of clean energy to public health and resilience.
• Support research, analysis, and demonstration projects that can enhance policy decisions.

Mobility

Advance equity- centered low carbon mobility solutions.

In Massachusetts, transportation is the leading cause of climate change. Over 40% of the state's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions come from how much we drive and move, which is impacted by how we build our communities.

Priorities:

• Community-driven solutions that lower greenhouse gas emissions from transportation and land-use
• Capacity building and leadership of state and municipal government bodies engaged in transportation, land use, and planning
• Cross-sector partnerships with a wide range of stakeholders working on transportation, land use, community planning, and related issues

Climate Resilience

Support communities  to prepare and adapt to climate change.

Priorities:

• Build awareness and mobilize a diverse constituency for action on climate risks, impacts, and resilience strategies.
• Mobilize key stakeholders to advance equitable policies and resilience plans.
• Catalyze momentum through demonstration projects that integrate resilience into the fabric of cities.

Climate Program Inquiries

The Barr Foundation’s Climate Program is actively working to expand its grantmaking to include more partners who are committed to centering racial equity in the climate movement.

Our work is grounded in the belief that a diverse, inclusive, and equity-centered movement is essential to achieving our ambitious climate goals.

• We will prioritize communities that have suffered the most from the fossil fuel economy and climate organizations whose work is centered in equity.
• While we most typically fund non-profit organizations, we are open to supporting other types of groups or organizations who are doing work that aligns with our strategies and goals.
• We are especially interested in supporting people of color (POC)-led equity-centered organizations.
  • We define equity-centered organizations as organizations that are building power in the communities they serve to address environmental racism.

Charitable Investments

CSX is proud to support people and organizations that in turn honor those who serve our communities. We offer monetary and in-kind resources to nonprofit organizations advocating for the betterment of our nation’s military members or community first responders, and have additional resources available to support other community efforts.

In Kind Donations

Intermodal Transportation Services

Intermodal transportation services provide applicable organizations with intermodal equipment and rail service throughout the CSX rail network, and afford these organizations an opportunity to reduce or eliminate their transportation spending.

Ideally, intermodal moves work best when freight is moving 500 miles or more. However, the in-kind moves program requires only that freight have an origin and destination within a combined 250 miles’ distance to a CSX intermodal facility.

CSX’s door-to-door product is an ideal solution for the in-kind moves program, as our trained team will pick up your freight at its origin and transport it to a terminal to be placed on an intermodal train. Then, we will pick up your freight at the destination terminal and deliver it directly to its endpoint. The door-to-door network provides service across the Eastern United States with its large nationwide network and trucking capability.

CSX will also work with you to determine the type of equipment that is an ideal fit to transport your freight. CSX has a large fleet of rail-owned containers, as well as an expansive network of channel partners that can provide equipment to fit your needs.

Railroad Equipment and Materials

CSX occasionally donates materials, supplies and used railroad equipment based on availability. The online in-kind application can be used to request the donation of railroad-related items, including retired rail cars when available. Please note that rail, rail ties and spikes are not available for donation or purchase. Applicants will be contacted if the requested item becomes available within 90 days of their online submittal. At that time, arrangements will be made to transfer possession of the requested item. All applicants will be asked to re-submit their application at a later date if the requested item does not become available within the 90-day period.

About Us

Mattina R. Proctor (1926-2005) was a compassionate philanthropist from Camden, Maine and Boston, Massachusetts. Ms. Proctor championed and funded many worthwhile projects to benefit those in need, protect the environment, and bring fine music, arts, and media to the people. In her memory, The Mattina R. Proctor Foundation continues to support charitable organizations and initiatives in Maine, Massachusetts and beyond that focus on education, healthcare, music, and environmental stewardship.

Need Based Giving

MRPF strives to make a difference with the grants we make. We prefer to focus our giving on particular projects rather than on general program support. Successful applicants are generally those who demonstrate a specific need related to our focus areas in Maine, Massachusetts and beyond.

Focus Areas 

Education

We support organizations that provide educational opportunities in music, performance, and in traditional trades and crafts. The foundation has supported projects at the university and secondary school levels, and programs that engage younger students. We are especially interested in projects that support music and trades education in traditionally underserved populations in Maine and Massachusetts.

The Arts 

We supports organizations and initiatives that bring fine music, arts, and media to the people primarily in Maine and Massachusetts with a special focus on opera. We generally focus our funding on performance and education organizations. In this focus area we tend to concentrate on funding opportunities where major foundation support is critical to the ongoing success of the applicant.

Healthcare

We support healthcare initiatives predominantly in Maine and the Boston area, for public health and medical research. Funding is provided for initiatives in diabetes research and care, dental care, and projects that seek to provide preventative healthcare to underserved populations in Maine.

Environmental Stewardship

We support organizations and campaigns that seek to acquire and protect land in the Midcoast region of Maine, both through direct acquisitions and via conservation easements. We tends to give to conservation organizations that demonstrate a desire to support rural economies through multiple-use management objectives, providing for continued agricultural and recreational uses, along with sustainable timber management programs. In all of our grants, the economic impact on jobs and the regional economy are important factors in the decision-making process.

State Street Foundation

As a global organization, we recognize the role we play in supporting the economic vitality of our communities. Through State Street Foundation, our charitable arm, we make grants to nonprofits and non-governmental organizations, with a focus on creating lasting economic benefits in the communities where we live and work. The Foundation invests in high-performing nonprofits that are achieving measurable results in basic education, college success and credentials, and employability.

We know that being a good corporate citizen drives employee engagement, enhances our reputation with clients and potential employees, improves brand recognition and builds public trust. In addition to financial support, the Foundation also manages a charitable board matching program, providing training and support for State Street employees to serve as members of boards of directors for charitable organizations. A matching gifts program that monetizes employee volunteer time, matches donations and supports fundraising efforts helps us to further support our local communities.

Grant Guidelines

State Street Foundation, Inc. seeks to promote economic opportunity by reducing equity gaps in educational achievement and employability in communities where State Street Corporation operates.

Mission and Strategy

State Street Foundation, Inc. seeks to promote economic opportunity by reducing equity gaps in educational achievement and employability. We do this by making general operating support investments in non-profit charitable organizations that:

• Operate in communities where State Street Corporation has a business presence
• Have a demonstrated track record of supporting people aged 14 and over in the areas of educational achievement and employability
• Share a commitment to and demonstrate leadership in diversity, equity and inclusion, including addressing equity gaps based on race, ethnicity, socio-economic status and/or other diversity dimensions as applicable in the organization’s location

Organizational Impact

Organizations must be able to show measurable outcomes through reporting, including the following metrics:

• Organizational diversity across the dimensions of Leadership, Staff, Populations Served, Board of Directors, and Executive Director, and
• Numbers and diversity of participants gaining access to basic skills that lead to lifelong success (including high school/secondary degree or equivalent), and/or
• Numbers and diversity of participants who are aware of, apply for, enter and complete credential programs (college, university, vocational and technical training), and/or
• Numbers and diversity of participants who are connected with employment opportunities and retain employment over a period of one year

A focus on Racial Equity

State Street Foundation is committed to creating more equitable communities by investing in high-impact nonprofit and charitable organizations reducing gaps in educational achievement and employability due to race, ethnicity and socioeconomic status. Our grantmaking guidelines focus on racial equity and social justice, reflecting our commitment to combatting racism and inequality as a core tenet of our grantmaking in education and workforce development. These guidelines are an outgrowth of our work in 2020-2021 with an independent, external consulting partner who systematically evaluated our eastern Massachusetts grant portfolio from a racial equity perspective.

John W. Alden Trust Grant

The John W. Alden Trust was established under the will of Priscilla Alden in honor of her father. In her will, Miss Alden specified that grant support should be directed toward "organizations providing care and administering to the needs of children who are blind, retarded, disabled or who are either mentally or physically ill ... or organizations engaged in medical and scientific research directed toward the prevention or cure of diseases and disabilities particularly affecting children."

The Alden Trust provides support to organizations serving children and youth (ages 0-24) with physical, mental, or intellectual disabilities; and to organizations engaged in research focused on the prevention or cure of diseases and disabilities affecting children.

Organizations serving high-risk youth who are high risk by social or environmental factors and/or are engaged in behaviors that increase the likelihood of adverse health outcomes may meet the Trust’s criteria if the youth they serve are experiencing measurable effects from at least two of the following recognized risk factors:

• living at or below the poverty level
• experiencing school failure (having dropped out of high school)
• living in a foster home or group home
• living in a homeless shelter or motel
• having involvement with the juvenile justice system
• are pregnant or parenting
• having known involvement with drugs or alcohol

Cummings $30 Million Grant Program

Cummings Foundation has awarded more than $600 million to date in greater Boston. In 2026, it will grant an additional $30 million. These funds will be shared by 150 local-area nonprofits and will be awarded as multi-year grants, to be paid over either three or 10 years.

Priority Funding Causes

The Cummings $30 Million Grant Program funds a wide variety of local causes related to:

Human services

• housing and food security, anti-poverty, disabilities, employment training, immigrant/refugee assistance, legal assistance, senior citizens, strong families/communities, youth activities/services

Social justice

• equity, anti-hate, opportunity gap remediation, representation

Education

• K-12/college, mentoring/tutoring, out-of-school time, complementary programs

Healthcare

• hospitals/clinics, mental health

The Environment

• environmental education, equitable access to outdoor spaces, recycling/waste reduction, sustainable agriculture and food systems (This program does not currently consider requests for research, land preservation, and large capital projects)

Overview

The Tower Foundation is a family foundation that helps children, adolescents, and young people affected by intellectual disabilities, learning disabilities, mental health issues, and/or substance use disorders. Our goal is to improve the lives of young people in our geographic footprint of Erie and Niagara Counties in Western New York, and Barnstable, Dukes, Essex, and Nantucket Counties in Eastern Massachusetts.

The Tower Foundation believes every young person should have the chance to achieve their personal goals, regardless of the challenges they face. Individuals who live with one or more of these issues may be overlooked or stigmatized, creating additional challenges. We also know that some young people face more challenges than others because of systemic inequalities. The convergence of our focus areas with racism, ableism, sexism, and other types of discrimination warrants the Foundation’s attention because as we know, people do not live single-issue lives.

The Tower Foundation sees its role as more than just a funder. These issues are near and dear to us because we have members of our family who live with one or more of the issues. These are individuals who are resilient—persevering despite the challenges they face— and who should be valued by our communities. The Tower Foundation envisions a future in which equitable communities include, accept and value these young people.

Strengthening Partner Capacity Grants

The Foundation seeks to fund requests that, “build and/or strengthen the systems, structures, cultures, skills, resources, and power that organizations need to serve their communities.” Strengthening Partner Capacity grants are available for board/leadership development; diversity, equity, inclusion; evaluation/evaluation design; organizational development; professional development; program design and planning (not service delivery); small capital projects/equipment purchases; staff mental wellness support; technology planning/purchasing; and other ideas that help organizations better serve their communities as described above. We accept applications for Strengthening Partner Capacity grants multiple times a year. All other grants in this category are by invitation only.

Focus Areas

The Foundation supports organizations and initiatives that help provide young people with opportunities to realize their highest potential regardless of the challenges they face. Our funding supports work in four focus areas: Intellectual Disabilities, Learning Disabilities, Mental Health, and Substance Use Disorders – all typically underfunded and stigmatized conditions.

We have set out broad, aspirational goals to guide our work and to keep us focused on the big picture. With these in mind, we hope to move a little closer each day to these ideals.

Intellectual Disabilities

• Children with intellectual disabilities are identified early and receive services that meet their evolving needs.
• Young people with intellectual disabilities are engaged in meaningful, social, vocational, and educational pursuits.
• Families understand intellectual disabilities and secure needed supports.
• Communities embrace young people with intellectual disabilities and provide them with a full range of supports and opportunities to engage in community life.

Learning Disabilities

• Children with learning disabilities are identified early, diagnosed, and connected to services that meet their ongoing individual needs.
• Youth with learning disabilities understand how they learn and pursue resources that support them accordingly.
• Young adults are confident and do not view their learning disability as a liability.
• Young adults with learning disabilities are ready for work and/or educational pursuits.
• Families are informed about learning disabilities and can identify and navigate available services.
• Communities value persons with learning disabilities and accommodate their needs.

Mental Health

• Stigma related to mental illness is eliminated.
• Children with social, emotional, and behavioral challenges are identified early and connected to appropriate services.
• Young people with mental health challenges understand and manage their conditions and behaviors.
• Families understand mental health challenges and help young people live productive lives.
• Communities offer meaningful opportunities and appropriate support to young people with mental health challenges and their families.

Substance Use Disorders

• Community members understand the prevalence and harmful effects of alcohol and drugs on young people and work to address them.
• Resources for substance use disorders prevention, treatment, and recovery are readily available.
• Families provide safe environments that support healthy and informed choices about alcohol and drugs.
• Young people make healthy and informed choices about alcohol and drugs.

Click here for the Foundation’s definitions of the above four focus areas.

What We’re Most Interested in Funding

Here are some examples of the sorts of things the Foundation might be willing to fund, just to get you thinking. This is not a complete list of everything we’ll consider!

• Board/Leadership development
• Diversity, equity, inclusion
• Evaluation/Evaluation design
• Mergers/affiliations
• Organizational development (e.g., strategic planning; marketing, development, and/or communications support; process improvement; succession planning)
• Professional development
• Program design and planning (not service delivery; contact us if you have questions!)
• Small capital projects/equipment purchases
• Staff mental wellness support
• Technology planning/purchasing
• What are your ideas? (We’re happy to discuss them!)

Richard and Susan Smith Family Foundation

We are a private family foundation awarding more than $12.4 million in grants  to over 278 organizations in Greater Boston and Gateway Cities.

Our Mission

Our mission is to effect permanent positive change in the lives of individuals and families across Greater Boston, especially in economically disadvantaged communities.

We invest in organizations that improve human health, raise educational attainment, increase economic security, and meet community needs.

We believe in engaged, multigenerational family philanthropy as a means to have greater impact and to honor our family’s philanthropic legacy.

Small Capital Grants

Our Small Capital Grants program provides $25,000 to $100,000 grants for one-time capital expenses that strengthen a nonprofit’s ability to serve its clients and achieve its mission.

This support is particularly valuable because nonprofits can find it difficult to make these investments through their operating budgets.

New England Funding Priorities

The Clowes Fund supports organizations and programs that focus primarily on socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals. New England funding is concentrated in four geographic regions, including parts of Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine, and the State of Vermont.

In New England, we accept Introductory Applications for first-time Immigrant Services and Workforce Development grants. All current and recent grantees, including those focused on K-12 Education and Arts Education, are welcome to submit a Continuation Grant Statement of Intent.

Massachusetts

Geographic Priorities

The Fund supports immigrant services, workforce development, K-12 education and arts education requests serving Suffolk, Middlesex, Essex and Worcester counties, as well as other communities with significant populations of immigrants, refugees and asylees.

Funding Priorities

• Immigrant Services – We are interested in supporting efforts to address the economic, linguistic, legal, and mental and emotional hurdles that immigrants, refugees and asylees and their children face during integration into the United States society and its economy.
• Workforce Development – We are interested in ensuring that all individuals have access to both jobs skills training and the support services necessary to enable them to participate fully in the economic life of their communities. In addition, we are interested in supporting youth development efforts that prevent students (ages 15 to 25) from dropping out of school and assist in their return to school or their pursuit of an alternate course to economic self-sufficiency.
• K-12 Education – We support primary and secondary education through efforts that emphasize classroom instruction, such as professional development for educators or programs that are fully integrated into the school day. We do not fund after-school or summer enrichment programs for elementary and middle school students. We consider such programs for teens as youth development within our workforce development interests. Note: In Boston, the Fund primarily supports education through EdVestors.
• Arts Education – We support arts education programs that foster critical thinking skills and creativity.

Grant Application Process & Funding

There are two entry points to applying for a Clowes Fund grant, after you have reviewed Where and What We Fund and What We Do Not Fund. Your answer to the following question determines your application type (due November 1).

• Has your organization received a Clowes Fund competitive grant payment within the past five years?
  • If No - Apply for an Introductory Grant: $40K over 2 years ($20K/year) - For Immigrant Services or Workforce Development
    • Most Introductory Grants are awarded to organizations with operating budgets less than $2.5 million.
  • If Yes - Apply for a Continuation Grant - $60K, $90K or $150K over 3 years ($20K, $30K, $50K year, respectively) - For Immigrant Services, Workforce Development, Arts Education or K-12 Education

Transparency is core to strong relationships, so we are compelled to share that fewer than 10% of Introductory Applications will result in an Introductory Grant. The likelihood of funding is much higher for returning grantees seeking Continuation Grants.

Sincere Foundation Grant

We are a Foundation with Heart.

At Sincere, we build technology that brings you closer and helps show you care to the people who matter the most. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to celebrate, recognize milestones, and honor memories; and that is only possible when people have what they need to thrive.

With our Foundation, we support organizations and programs that address basic needs:

• Food Security: Sincere Foundation supports organizations that provide meals, connect people with food resources and nutritional information, research the complex causes of food insecurity, and everything in between. We are open to any program that addresses the essential food needs of vulnerable people.
• Housing Stability: Ending homelessness requires a holistic approach that includes more affordable permanent housing, resources for rapid re-housing, workforce development, emergency shelter, and street outreach. We support programs that work with individuals and families to meet this need.
• Safe Spaces: We support organizations that provide spaces free from bias or potentially threatening actions, ideas, or conversations. This can include, but is not limited to, school campuses, domestic violence shelters, LGBTQIA+ youth and family programs, and mental health resources.

Criteria

Grant requests of up to $25,000 will be considered and reviewed for the following:

• The impact of the requested grant on the organization and/or project/program to be funded
• The financial size and strength of the organization

Awareness. Education. Prevention.  These are three key tenets of Bayer Fund’s investments in health and wellness.  With a focus on cancer and cardiovascular disease, we provide resources to organizations dedicated to educating and/or providing services to patients, caregivers and at-risk populations.

Health & Wellness Grants

Programs that Bayer Fund will support include those that focus on patients and their families needing assistance with issues to managing cardiovascular disease and cancer. This includes education, disease awareness, and supportive services for these diseases. In areas related to cardiovascular disease, priority (though not exclusivity) will be given to charitable organizations that focus on programs and support for the African American community due to the high incidence rate of disease in this population.

Giving in this category will focus on support services such as education, disease awareness, and general access to care (e.g., housing for families traveling for cancer or heart care).

All funding requests and budgets must be for program activities and expenses that start after funding decisions are made. All programs must be completed within one year of the start date, except in limited situations where longer term programs have been agreed upon. Grant award amounts vary, depending on the size of the community, the type of programming, and the reach of the organization.

Please see FAQs for additional guidelines.

Lincoln and Therese Filene Foundation

The Filene Foundation is a private family foundation that makes grants to tax-exempt organizations and institutions that provide services to individuals and localities.

  The Foundation's major goals are: 

• to enable those who are disadvantaged to help themselves and others;
• to reduce social conflicts and create harmonious communities;
• to encourage informed civic participation on local, state and regional levels; and
• to promote participation in the performing arts.

Grant Programs

Lincoln & Therese Filene were innovators in Boston's early philanthropic community. Their interests spanned many areas of concern. Today, five generations of Lincoln and Therese's family continue the Foundation's grantmaking in four specific program areas, including:

Civic Education

The Civic Education Committee considers grants to organizations that reinforce the values and responsibilities, as well as the privileges and opportunities, of American citizenship for natural-born and immigrant populations.

The Committee focuses on programs to encourage, engage, and inform citizens including programs that educate others (e.g. training teachers or student leaders).

Human Development & Self Sufficiency

The mission of the Human Development and Self Sufficiency Committee is to enable those who are disadvantaged in various ways to help themselves and others. It supports organizations dedicated to building equitable, safe and successful communities in the Greater Boston-area by providing pathways for disadvantaged individuals to become self-sufficient, valued, and productive members of their communities.

The Committee funds grants in areas including, but not limited to, services for domestic violence and human-trafficking survivors, homelessness prevention, job training and programs that enable youth to overcome obstacles to positive growth.

Music Education & Performing Arts

The Music and Performing Arts Committee determines funding levels for continuing programs at Wolf Trap Farm for the Performing Arts, including the Institute for Early Learning Through the Arts and the Opera Company, and the Filene Music Program at Skidmore College. 

Other requests are considered on a limited basis, including initiatives that support Therese Filene’s lifelong effort to offer musical instruction and experiences to those who could otherwise not afford them.

Public Education & Broadcasting

The Public Education and Broadcasting Committee considers grants to organizations that provide equal access to education and information by encouraging civic engagement, community involvement and early childhood education.

The Committee also focuses on efforts that address local community needs, including programs in public school systems.

Guidelines

The Foundation awards grants to educational institutions, public television, and other non-profit organizations whose proposals are specific and achievable, and whose successes can be replicated by other organizations. Awards are granted generally in the $10,000 - $20,000 range.

The Boston Scientific Foundation’s mission is to improve health and open up educational opportunities for economically disadvantaged persons, with an emphasis on communities where Boston Scientific employees live and work in the United States.

Education

The Foundation supports programs focused on improving STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) educational opportunities and academic development for K-12 students who are economically disadvantaged.

Grants to benefit economically disadvantaged in education programs is defined as programs with:

• Minimum of 50% of program participants at 185% of poverty or lower OR
• Funding directed to participants at 185% of poverty or lower
• We do not fund dollars towards stipends for program participation

How do you select applicants?

We support programs that improve health and STEM education for economically disadvantaged persons. Applications are initially pre-screened, with qualified submissions then vetted by regional grant review committees. We are particularity interested in proposals that contain these elements:

Evidence based approaches that include a methodology for tracking and measuring improvements in STEM learning or specific health outcomes related to our focus areas.

Clear identification of the target audience and data used to determine the majority of grant beneficiaries (participants) are economically disadvantaged (e.g., household income, enrollment in Medicaid or SNAP benefits, census data for the neighborhood or community, etc.)

Cost-effective and results-oriented programs, where our contributions can make a long-term measurable difference in the quality of people’s lives and serve as a catalyst for positive change.

Our Mission

First, to preserve and maintain the legacy of the Horne Family in Massachusetts’ Greater Merrimack Valley and southern New Hampshire regions by supporting various community efforts that specifically relate to Human Services, Environment and Wildlife.

Secondly, the Foundation seeks to broaden its impact by supporting national initiatives aimed at the Environment, Wildlife Preservation and Animal Welfare.

Greater Merrimack Valley Efforts

Human Services Causes In Massachusetts’ Greater Merrimack Valley And Southern New Hampshire Regions

The Horne Family will continue to support Human Services in the Greater Merrimack Valley region. The Foundation has a long history of funding community service groups targeting at-risk youth through various after-school and summer programs. In addition, we actively support human services organizations that provide aid to homeless, underprivileged and aging populations as well as victims of domestic abuse and trauma.

Types of Funding

Recognizing that the organizational infrastructure is a necessity, the Foundation welcomes requests for general operating support and efforts designed to increase organizational capacity. We also encourage requests for specific program initiatives or improvements. Areas of Interest As of the 2017 funding period, we have refined our mission to enable us to grant requests that are most closely aligned with the core values of the foundation:

• Conservation of Land and Wildlife,
• Human Services, and
• Animal Welfare.

Geographic Focus

The Foundation distributes regional grants in Massachusetts’ Greater Merrimack Valley and Southern New Hampshire and on a national basis. While our primary interests are with regard to our regional and national focus, we will extend support to international initiatives as it specifically relates to disaster relief for people and animals and species preservation on the African continent.

Since 1986, The Trust for the Meditation Process has encouraged the practice of inner, silent awareness, whether it's called meditation, mindfulness or contemplative prayer. Our financial grants to non-profit organizations renew contemplative Christianity, promote health and wholeness, and bring silence and stillness to a hectic world.  

Contemplative Christianity Grants

Many people think of meditation as an exclusively Eastern religious practice. But Western religion, too, has a long tradition of silent, non-discursive prayer, often called contemplation, which is rooted in a rich mystical literature. Contemporary thinkers are unearthing this tradition. Their fresh encounter with the Gospels and mystics emphasizes that God is a living presence in us – to be known in silence and love and manifested in our acts of compassion.

• Grants made in the Contemplative Christianity Program have these objectives:  
• Introduce or expand the teaching and practice of Christian contemplative practices, such as Christian Meditation or Centering Prayer.
• Focus on silent, non discursive meditation rather than another aspect or method of prayer or spiritual formation.
• Connect with a Christian audience or have a Christian context.
• Identify and support emerging scholars and leaders in Contemplative Christianity and Christian mysticism.
• Raise the profile of Contemplative Christianity, with language and programs that speak to all Christian denominations and that reconnect people to Christian contemplative traditions.
• Reach underserved populations, such as children, teens, and young adults, people of color, people who are LGBTQ, people with low incomes and people facing addictions, illness, trauma or loss.
• Encourage dialogue among contemplative traditions in all religions.

Mindfulness Grants

Thirty years ago, Jon Kabat-Zinn and his colleagues at the University of Massachusetts medical school adapted classic forms of meditation found in most religions for a modern, secular audience. A simple practice of paying silent attention to the present moment formed the core of their efforts to help people improve physical and emotional health. 

Since then, a large and rigorous body of research has shown that a regular practice of mindfulness meditation can change us in many significant ways: improving immune function, reducing stress, reducing pain and symptoms of chronic disease, improving sleep, improving attention, fostering self- care and compassion, and the list continues to grow. Today, an ever widening interest in the benefits of mindfulness practice has led to its introduction in many fields and professions.  

Grants made in the Mindfulness Program have both of these objectives:

Introduce or expand mindfulness meditation through educational or human service nonprofits or government entities, such as K-12 public schools, colleges and universities, correctional facilities, rehabilitation programs, healthcare, counseling and case management services.

Reach underserved populations, such as children, teens, and young adults, BIPOC and LGBTQ communities, people in the criminal justice system, people with low incomes, and people facing addictions, illness, trauma or loss.

Mindfulness Program grants are highly competitive and we generally receive more applications than we can award. 

Grant Guidelines

Our focus is short-term projects where a small grant can make a credible impact and result in clearly identifiable outcomes. We make 20 to 40 grants annually. Initial awards are typically small – $3,000 to $5,000.

The type of projects we fund includes:

• Meditation courses, workshops, lectures or retreats.
• Trainings, sabbaticals, retreats and other development for meditation teachers.
• Meditation curriculum development.
• Books, supplies and equipment for meditation programs.
• Efforts to expand and build the capacity of meditation programs and address barriers to practice. 
• Meditation research, especially the development of simple, effective, accessible evaluation tools.
• Publications that effectively spread critical perspectives on meditation and meet an important gap in the current literature.
• East/West meditation dialogue.

About the Foundation

Harold Brooks, of Braintree, Massachusetts, was a successful business executive and entrepreneur who manufactured and sold prefabricated structures and underground bomb shelters during the Cold War. Mr. Brooks died in 1963 and the Foundation that bears his name was established in 1984.

The Harold Brooks Foundation provides assistance to causes and organizations that help the largest possible number of residents of Massachusetts' South Shore communities, especially those that support the basic human needs of South Shore residents. The Foundation supports nonprofit organizations that have the greatest impact on improving the human condition and/or that provide the neediest South Shore residents with "tools" to help them restore their lives. The Foundation focuses on 5 key areas: education; food, agriculture & nutrition; health; housing & shelter; and mental health.

The Foundation focuses on five key areas: Education; Food, Agriculture, & Nutrition; Health; Housing & Shelter; and Mental Health.

Program Areas

The Brooks Foundation seeks to leverage its funding by supporting programs and projects that impact large numbers of residents or that positively affect the lives of the traditionally underserved within South Shore communities. As discussed in its Mission Statement, the Brooks Foundation funds in 5 primary areas:

Education. The Foundation supports educational programs for all ages, including but not limited to academic access; educational enrichment; and remedial programming for children, youth, adults, and senior citizens that focus on preparing individuals to achieve while in school and beyond.

Health/Mental Health. The foundation supports programming that:

• makes possible care or expands care in response to priority community health needs of residents of the South Shore;
• improves access to care—especially basic services—for traditionally underserved individuals; or
• prepares individuals to be independent and to assist themselves.

Food, Agriculture, & Nutrition/Housing & Shelter. We are committed to serving the South Shore community by supporting organizations that meet the basic needs of all individuals. Our efforts are focused on, but not limited to, shelters, food programs, and employment programs.

Our Mission

The mission of the US Foundation is to support best-in-class programs and organizations in our communities that improve education and educational opportunities for youth from historically marginalized and traditionally underserved communities.

Grant-making focus

Our US Foundation funds programs that provide youth from traditionally under-resourced communities with access to high-quality academic programs and educational opportunities. We believe a strong academic foundation can provide a clear and positive path for the lives of young people. Accordingly, the US Foundation primarily aims to select organizations and programs that support:

Academic improvement

• educational tutoring and mentoring
• study skills programs
• technology-based initiatives

Educational transitions

• school readiness programs
• high school access and success programs
• college access and success programs

Extended learning time

• out-of-school-time programs
• schools that operate extended hours
• programs that operate within school to enhance curriculum

Career readiness

• career and technical training models for linked learning
• workforce development programs

Whom do we fund?

We recognize that economic privilege greatly increases educational opportunities. Therefore, we fund organizations that provide access for all youth in our communities to educational experiences that will enhance their chances for future success.

Our Mission

To promote wellness and access to opportunities so that individuals and communities can thrive.

Grounded in our work in Connecticut and New York, we support visionary leaders and nonprofit organizations that serve historically marginalized populations, help individuals contribute to their communities, and champion advancements and experiences that make it possible for all people to live healthy and joyous lives.

Innovation Fund

The Tow Foundation is pleased to announce a new grant opportunity for nonprofit organizations innovatively expanding access to the care and support that youth need to thrive.

The Innovation Fund intends to make grants, ranging from $300,000 to $1 million over three years, to up to 10 organizations that are improving youth mental health and well-being and serving young people between the ages of 0-25.

Through the Innovation Fund, the Foundation hopes to inspire and invest in bold approaches, and to learn from exploring questions like: What are the most challenging barriers youth and their families face in accessing support for mental health and well-being? What emerging innovations exist to address these barriers? What is the resulting impact of these innovations on youth and their families?

The Innovation Fund takes a broad and inclusive approach when imagining the kinds of care and support that may have a positive impact on youth mental health and well-being. This includes interventions across the prevention to treatment continuum. We welcome submissions from a diverse array of organizations working in a variety of community, school, and clinical settings. For the purpose of this initiative, the word “innovation” could mean scaling proven efforts, attempting to apply existing efforts to new populations or geographies, or experimenting with a novel approach altogether. By not defining “innovation,” we hope to encourage creative thinking.

The Gladys Brooks Foundation was created under the will of Gladys Brooks Thayer of New York. 

Its purpose is to provide for the intellectual, moral and physical welfare of the people of this country by establishing and  supporting non-profit libraries, educational institutions, hospitals and clinics.

Scope of Grants Considered

The Foundation will consider major grant applications for innovative projects in the fields of libraries, education, hospitals and clinics.

Grants for Libraries 

Grant applications will be considered generally for resource Endowments (print, film, electronic database, speakers/workshops) capital construction and innovative equipment. Projects fostering broader public access to global information sources utilizing collaborative efforts, pioneering technologies and equipment are encouraged.

Grants for Educational Institutions

Grant applications from universities, colleges and secondary schools will be considered generally for:

• educational endowments to fund scholarships based solely on educational achievements, leadership and academic ability of the student; 
• endowments to support fellowships and teaching chairs for educators who confine their activities primarily to classroom instruction in the liberal arts, mathematics and the sciences during the academic year;
• erection or endowment of buildings, wings or additions thereto of buildings, and equipment for educational purposes;
• capital equipment for educational purposes.

Grants for Hospitals & Clinics

Grant proposals from hospitals and clinics where the proposal addresses a new health need, an improvement in the quality of health care or reduced health costs with better patient outcomes will be considered generally for:

• endowments for programs;
• erection or endowment of buildings, wings of or additions to buildings;
• capital equipment.

Mission

The Lloyd G. Balfour Foundation was established in 1973. The Foundation's 3 primary focus areas reflect Mr. Balfour's strong affinity for the employees of the Balfour Company, his commitment to the city of Attleboro, Massachusetts, and his lifelong interest in education. Specifically, the Balfour Foundation supports:

• Educational scholarships to employees of the Balfour Company, as well as to their children and grandchildren
• Organizations serving the people of Attleboro, with special consideration given to those organizations that provide educational, human services and health care programming for underserved populations
• Educational organizations that serve New England

Focus Area

Educational Organizations

The Foundation's educational funding is generally focused on organizations or programs that provide support for underserved or under-represented populations to prepare for, access and succeed in higher education, including 2-year and 4-year institutions.

It is clear that Mr. Balfour was interested in supporting students for successful completion of college. As such, the Foundation focuses its grantmaking in the New England area on programs that support college readiness, access, and success. The Foundation is most interested in programs that support students all the way into and through post-secondary credential attainment (2- or 4-year credentials). Programs within institutions of higher education aimed at attracting, supporting, and retaining (through successful completion) under-served and under-represented populations are also of interest. In this area, we will consider applications that request scholarship funds, if those scholarships are part of a broader set of services and supports.

About Us

Created in 1992, the Wellington Management Foundation donates money and volunteer time to more than 125 nonprofit community organizations that support youth in under-resourced communities in the North American and Asia-Pacific cities where we have offices. These organizations provide access to best-in-class educational programs and services, enhancing opportunities for future success.

In 2016, the Wellington Management UK Foundation was created to support organizations in both the UK and Europe. Wellington Management Foundation Grant.

The Wellington Management Foundation is an independent corporate foundation funded by Wellington, as well as current and former employees, who give generously to support a portfolio of nonprofit educational organizations. The Foundation is run by an advisory board which includes a chair and vice chair. All members of the advisory board are current or former Wellington employees. In addition, the Foundation relies on employee volunteers each year to conduct due diligence on grant applications and build long-term relationships with the community organizations funded.

Our Belief

We believe education is a critical lever in creating opportunities for equitable outcomes, including social and economic mobility.

Our Mission

We support best-in-class programs and organizations in our communities that are improving education and educational opportunities for youth from traditionally underserved and historically marginalized communities.

Our Portfolio

We support organizations across the full educational life-cycle of a student, from early education to career readiness programs, independent and charter schools, district-wide school-based programs, and after-school and summer programs, as well as college access and persistence programs.

Annual Grant

Every year we award grants to growth orientated small to medium organizations working to close the opportunity and achievement gaps for youth in traditionally underserved communities in North America and Asia-Pacific cities where Wellington has offices.

Our US Foundation funds programs that provide youth from traditionally under-resourced communities with access to high-quality academic programs and educational opportunities. We believe a strong academic foundation can provide a clear and positive path for the lives of young people. Accordingly, the US Foundation primarily aims to select organizations and programs that support:

• Academic improvement:
  • Educational tutoring and mentoring
  • Study skills programs
  • Technology-based initiatives
  • Mental health support
• Educational transitions:
  • School readiness programs
  • High school access and success programs
  • College access and success programs
• Extended learning time:
  • Out-of-school-time programs
  • Schools that operate extended hours
  • Programs that operate within schools to enhance curricula
• Career readiness:
  • Career and technical training models for linked learning
  • Workforce development programs

The US-based Wellington Management Foundation gives annual grants to programs that improve the educational opportunities for youth in traditionally underserved and economically challenged communities in eastern Massachusetts, the greater Philadelphia area, Chicago, the San Francisco Bay area, Toronto, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Sydney. The Grant Recommendation Committee (GRC), which engages employee volunteers to conduct a review of each new applicant and long-term grantee we fund, begins each year in September. Grants are made each December.

The Boston Scientific Foundation

The Boston Scientific Foundation’s mission is to improve health and open up educational opportunities for economically disadvantaged persons, with an emphasis on communities where Boston Scientific employees live and work in the United States.

Health

Programs that aim to improve the health of those who are economically disadvantaged, with a focus on cancer, diabetes, respiratory, cardiovascular, neurological, mental wellness, gastrointestinal and urologic diseases and disorders through any one of these approaches.

• Disease prevention
• Disease awareness and diagnosis
• Access to care
• Quality of care

Adelard A. and Valeda Lea Roy Foundation Grant

The AV Roy Foundation has historically supported a broad range of organizations working in the areas of arts and culture, churches, education, environmental education, food access, health, land trusts, museums, and social services. The Trustees prioritize grants serving greater Boston and underserved rural and urban communities in Massachusetts, with some additional grantmaking in other areas of Northern New England.

In an effort to ensure that applications to the Foundation closely match current giving priorities, the Trustees will give priority to Massachusetts and Northern New England applicants focused on the following:

• Environment: requests focused on land conservation, in particular projects close to completion and projects resulting in easements held by accredited land trusts; environmental education; and climate change
• Health and Welfare: basic human needs (with priority given to food security and housing); hospice and home health care
• Arts and Culture: in particular, arts access and education for disadvantaged, elderly, or youth populations, and historic preservation
• Education: schools serving youth from low income backgrounds, including independent schools
• Churches providing basic needs support and other social services programming, as well as capital needs for facilities or historic preservation

Funding

Grants typically range from $2,500 to $10,000. In 2023, the average grant was $3,800. The Trustees anticipate a slightly higher average grant size this year, and fewer grants in total.

Corporate Sponsorships

We give back as much as we can, as often as we can, and to as many organizations as possible. Because nothing is more rewarding than knowing we played a part in finding a solution. Easing the burden for people struggling to make ends meet, helping a child learn to read, or inspiring someone to keep moving forward – one step, one day and one moment at a time.

As part of this commitment, we proudly support numerous non-profits and events through corporate sponsorships at many levels. Contributions support organizations that are involved in meeting the cultural, educational, community development, health and human services needs of communities within the bank's footprint in the central, eastern, western and shoreline areas of Connecticut and in Greater Springfield Massachusetts.

We strongly believe that supporting the causes we are passionate about creates stronger engagement and longer lasting ties in the communities where we live and work. Here are some examples of events we’ve sponsored in the past:

• Dinner fundraisers
• Walk-a-thons/5Ks
• Community concert series
• Golf tournaments
• Theatrical performances
• Chamber of Commerce events, fairs, festivals, parades, and home shows
• Community, semi-professional or professional sporting events

Branch Sponsorships

Many branch offices sponsor local youth athletic programs, school events, walk-a-thons, golf tournaments and other events, at amounts up to $1,000.

Autism Community Impact Grant

The Flutie Foundation recognizes not-for-profit organizations who share our mission to help individuals and families with autism live life to the fullest. For our 2023 Autism Community Impact Grant, we will continue granting these organizations with a particular emphasis on supporting traditionally under-served, under-funded, culturally diverse communities.

Our Autism Community Impact Grant cycle will consider requests that will help fund programs and projects showing potential to make an IMMEDIATE impact in the community and align with the Flutie Foundation priorities as stated in our Seven Key Dimensions described below. We especially encourage organizations with programs serving those most profoundly affected by autism to apply and share their stories.

Grant Funding Priorities

Work/School

Providing a path for educational opportunities, vocational skills programs, employment, housing, transportation and healthcare delivery for individuals on the autism spectrum.   

Active/Social

Support for recreational and sports programs, aquatic programs, social skills training, family events and summer camps for all individuals on the autism spectrum.

Safe/Supported/Informed

Funding for community organizations and schools who are providing vital resources and actively assisting individuals with autism spectrum disorder and their families through advocacy programs, diagnostic and clinical services, direct family support, safety equipment, emergency care, respite services and other opportunities that will enhance the quality of life for those affected.

Mission Statement

Rockland Trust’s philanthropic mission is to strengthen the communities served by the Bank. We enable individuals and their families to access opportunity and improve the quality of their lives.

Funding Priorities

The Rockland Trust Charitable Foundation prioritizes its grants to organizations and programs that serve a majority low-to-moderate income population in the following areas:

Affordable Housing

Priority is given to programs that create and provide safe, affordable housing, or provide programs and services to provide shelter and/or foster homeownership or ensure that individuals and families stay in their current homes, thereby preventing homelessness. Typical programs funded are:

• Development of low-to-moderate income housing
• Emergency home repairs
• Rental assistance programs
• Homebuyer education programs
• Foreclosure prevention and homeowner counseling programs
• Domestic violence and homeless shelters

Children & Youth

Priority is given to programs that are preventive in nature and that focus on providing children and youth equal access and opportunity to programs and services that foster health, wellness, education, and leadership skills to achieve their full potential. Typical programs funded are:

• Parenting education and training
• Early childhood education
• Social-emotional and mental health
• After-school enrichment/tutoring programs in sports, arts, leadership with an educational component
• Mentoring and literacy programs
• Access to summer camps for underserved youth
• Career/College exploration, preparation and support

Financial Inclusion & Workforce Development

Priority is given to programs that provide consumers and individuals with financial education and build employment skills they will need to achieve their potential and become contributing members of society.

Typical programs funded are:

• Financial literacy education, including money management, budgeting, banking, credit building and debt reduction
• Adult education, e.g., English as a Second Language
• Job preparation, training, and placement

Small Business Support

Priority is given to programs that provide small business assistance programs that strengthen our communities. Typical programs funded are:

• Small business assistance
• Entrepreneurial support programs