Best Grants for Mentoring Programs

The BECU Foundation's People Helping People Awards honor exceptional nonprofit work in communities served by BECU. Each year, BECU members can nominate organizations for grants up to $50,000. Eligible nonprofits must be active 501(c)(3) organizations with a direct impact in Idaho, Oregon, South Carolina, or Washington. This initiative highlights the importance of community service and encourages members to recognize local heroes making a difference.

The Alaska Airlines Foundation Grant supports youth in underserved areas of Alaska and Hawaii, focusing on empowering young people through career exploration, mentorship, and skill development. Grants range from $5,000 to $20,000, prioritizing organizations that demonstrate partnership and sustainability. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that do not discriminate based on protected categories. Funds should be utilized within a year, with grants not exceeding 10% of the organization's budget or 50% of the program budget.

The Foster Grandparent Grant Program, administered by the Illinois Department of Aging, empowers seniors aged 55 and older to tutor and mentor children with special needs in various educational settings. By providing a small stipend and training, the program encourages volunteerism, enhancing the lives of both seniors and youth. In 2024, 417 volunteers dedicated over 423,000 hours to support 3,670 children, showcasing the program's impact on community engagement and intergenerational relationships.

Department of Education

The Idaho Department of Education is the state agency that supports and strengthens K-12 education in Idaho. By advocating for Idaho’s families, educators, and schools with funding and educational policy alignment, we support and lead academic achievement to ensure every student is prepared with the skills and job readiness to succeed.

21st Century Community Learning Centers

The program supports the creation of community learning centers that provide academic enrichment opportunities during non-school hours for children, primarily those who attend high-poverty and low-performing schools. The program helps students meet challenging state academic standards and local academic standards.

Grant Application

The Idaho Department of Education hosts a request for applications (RFA) for available funds under Title IV, Part B, 21st Century Community Learning Centers, to eligible entities on a competitive basis through a rigorous peer-review process. Competitions are made available as federal funding allows.

With a mission to support education and youth development, John Ben Snow Memorial Trust provides U.S. mentoring programs with funding for initiatives such as tutoring, academic counseling, and after-school enrichment. Nonprofits offering mentoring services to youth or those in need of academic support may be eligible for grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $20,000.

The AmeriCorps Funding Opportunity Planning Grant, provided by ServeNebraska, supports organizations in developing effective service programs to address community needs. This grant enables applicants to build operational capacity, develop program components, and receive essential training. With a focus on evidence-based interventions and quality management, recipients are better equipped to manage AmeriCorps grants and enhance their community impact, ensuring that resources are utilized effectively without duplicating existing services.

The Holloway Family Foundation, established in North Central Texas, aims to enhance community quality of life regardless of race, gender, or religion. Their mission focuses on financial security, creative expression for under-resourced youth, and mentorship for personal development. The foundation supports organizations that provide workforce training, artistic opportunities for children, and guidance for youth in need. By fostering individual growth and economic stability, they empower families and strengthen communities, staying true to the founders' core values and personal experiences.

The Kahlert Foundation Maryland Grant aims to enhance community well-being by supporting non-profit organizations focused on health care, education, youth programs, veteran services, and human services primarily in Maryland and Utah. Eligible organizations must have a valid 501(c)(3) status and a strong Guidestar rating. The foundation encourages innovative proposals that demonstrate measurable impact and community benefit, with a preference for those that address multiple areas of focus.

The Textron Charitable Trust Grants support U.S.-based nonprofit organizations and educational institutions focusing on workforce development, education, arts, culture, and community health. They emphasize initiatives that enhance employment opportunities and quality of life in communities where Textron operates. Grants foster volunteerism and corporate citizenship while excluding organizations that discriminate or are politically affiliated. Eligible entities include 501(c)(3) charities and accredited K-12 institutions, ensuring funds support impactful community programs.

The WSFS Foundation Grant aims to support nonprofit organizations focused on enhancing community investment, providing affordable housing, and promoting education and leadership development. The foundation emphasizes initiatives that are innovative and sustainable, fostering diversity and inclusion. Eligible organizations must align with the foundation's vision and demonstrate a commitment to non-discrimination. This grant encourages programs that improve the quality of life and economic well-being within the communities it serves.

The NBA Foundation Grants aim to empower Black youth by providing economic opportunities through skills training, mentorship, and career advancement programs. Established by all 30 NBA teams, the foundation focuses on organizations aligned with its mission, specifically those serving Black youth in NBA markets. Applications for 2024 grants are now open, with a review process taking 12-14 weeks. This initiative is crucial for promoting sustainable economic and racial justice in communities.

The Liberty Partnerships Program, initiated by the New York State Education Department, aims to foster partnerships among Institutions of Higher Education and communities to support at-risk students. By providing essential services such as tutoring, counseling, and mentoring, the program seeks to enhance student engagement and reduce dropout rates. Through collaborative efforts, this initiative promotes innovative educational strategies that empower students to take active roles in their learning journey.

The Title IV, Part B - Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers Grant Program in Iowa aims to provide funding to schools and community organizations for establishing community learning centers. These centers will offer academic support and enrichment activities to ensure the safety and development of children during after-school hours. Grants range from $50,000 to $300,000 per year, with a focus on helping Title I eligible schools.

The Foot Locker Foundation Community Empowerment Program supports nonprofit organizations that empower youth in underserved communities, addressing racial inequities and promoting wellness. Grants range from $25,000 to $100,000 and are available for youth programming and capital improvement projects. Eligible organizations must serve low-to-moderate income communities, have diverse leadership, and engage local Foot Locker teams in volunteer efforts. This initiative aims to enhance opportunities for youth by connecting them with essential services and mentorship.

The Impact100 DC Grant Program empowers women to support nonprofit organizations tackling systemic inequities in the Washington, DC area. As a volunteer collective, we have awarded over $550,000 since 2021, prioritizing projects in arts, education, health, and community welfare. We require a clear budget plan for the full $100,000 award and prioritize proposals from organizations that serve historically marginalized communities. Our goal is to foster sustainable change and promote equity across diverse demographics.

Iowa Department of Health and Human Services

Iowa HHS provides high quality programs and services that protect and improve the health and resiliency of individuals, families, and communities.

Refugee Youth Mentoring Program

Purpose

The purpose of this RFP  is to select qualified applicants to provide Youth Mentoring (YM) services to Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) eligible youth ages 15–24 in Iowa, consistent with ORR guidance. Program goals are to promote positive civic/social engagement and support educational/vocational advancement. Services include matching youth with mentors (one-on-one or group) and providing case management to support educational and career development, within five years of the youth’s date of eligibility.  The Agency anticipates awarding multiple contracts from this procurement. 

The Fiesta Sports Foundation Grant aims to support Arizona nonprofit organizations that enhance community success through youth, sports, and education. With a new two-step application process for the 2025-26 cycle, interested organizations must submit an interest form highlighting project impact and budget. The foundation will review submissions based on alignment with its pillars and specific criteria, including project sustainability and community focus, before inviting selected nonprofits to apply formally in April 2025.

The 2025-2026 Amachi Texas program, administered by the Texas Education Agency, aims to provide essential mentoring relationships for children of incarcerated parents and at-risk youth. By connecting these young individuals with caring adult mentors, the program seeks to break the cycle of intergenerational incarceration, promote resilience, and empower youth to reach their fullest potential. This initiative is crucial for fostering positive development and educational success in vulnerable communities across Texas.

The Vermont Community Foundation's Spark Connecting Community Grant supports grassroots projects that enhance social capital and community connections in Vermont. With grants ranging from $500 to $5,000, it prioritizes initiatives from under-represented counties, fostering collaboration among local champions. The program seeks innovative projects that promote civic engagement, health, and resilience, while encouraging first-time grant seekers and organizations with smaller budgets to apply for funding.

OST Office Grants

The OST Office is tasked with improving both the quantity and quality of out-of-school time (OST) programs through targeted grant-making for service providers, as well as coordinating OST efforts across OST-affiliated government agencies. The OST Office is the largest OST grantmaking entity in DC.

The OST Office awards grants to support the quantity of high-quality OST programming for children and youth in DC. OST Office grantees provide programs during the critical hours of 3:00 to 6:00pm during the school year and across the summer months. Grants are awarded in a manner consistent with the OST Commission's Strategic Plan with particular attention to the strategic plan's goals and priorities for serving at-risk and other targeted youth populations, geographic distribution of out-of-school-time programs, and program quality.

DC Out of School (OST) Time Program

The Government of the District of Columbia (District) is committed to supporting children and youth in preparing for a bright future. In service of that commitment, the District is seeking to support fiscally responsible nonprofit organizations that have a history of providing children and youth with high-quality out-of-school-time (OST) programming.

The funds available through this Request for Applications (RFA) will be awarded through the Office of Out of School Time Grants and Youth Outcomes (OST Office), located in the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Education (DME). All grant awards are contingent upon the availability of funds. The OST Office reserves the right to accept or reject any or all applications and is under no obligation to issue a grant award as a result of this RFA.

Learn24 is the name of the network of nonprofit organizations and District government agencies that supports equitable access to high-quality OST programs for the District’s children and youth. The OST Office supports coordination of the Learn24 Network through targeted grant-making, data collection, evaluation, reporting and through the provision of training, technical assistance and other capacity building efforts. The OST Office stewards the Learn24 brand to bring awareness of the OST Office, The Institute for Youth Development, Commission on Out of School Time Grants and Youth Outcomes, higher education partners, District agencies, philanthropic partners, and hundreds of nonprofits and schools that offer programs to children and youth outside the school day. 

The Adolph Coors Foundation's Youth and Adult Grant Programs support initiatives that promote self-reliance and integrity among Coloradans. Priorities include mentoring for youth, vocational training for adults, and fostering entrepreneurship. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) entities operating in Colorado, while special consideration is given to rural nonprofits. The Foundation aims for evidence-based results and transformational outcomes, focusing on programs that empower communities and enhance economic opportunities.

FY27 RFP COAEREF27001 for Refugee Mentoring

Purpose

The purpose of this RFP #COAEREF27001 is to select qualified applicants to provide Youth Mentoring (YM) services to Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) eligible youth ages 15–24 in Iowa, consistent with ORR guidance. Program goals are to promote positive civic/social engagement and support educational/vocational advancement. Services include matching youth with mentors (one-on-one or group) and providing case management to support educational and career development, within five years of the youth’s date of eligibility.  The Agency anticipates awarding multiple contracts from this procurement. 

The Denver Children's Foundation (DCF) has been pivotal in transforming the lives of at-risk children in Colorado for over 30 years. Focused on education, health, advocacy, and personal growth, DCF provides strategic grants to organizations that effectively address the challenges faced by disadvantaged youth. By fostering partnerships, DCF helps create opportunities for children to thrive, ensuring they have access to essential resources and support that promote their overall development and well-being.

The Ohio Nita M. Lowey 21st CCLC Grant provides crucial funding for out-of-school time programs aimed at students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Administered by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, this grant supports educational initiatives that enhance academic performance and personal development. Eligible applicants include schools, community organizations, and local agencies, with a focus on services for low-income areas. The program emphasizes a range of enrichment activities, promoting holistic growth for children in need.

The Kentucky Nita M. Lowey 21st CCLC Grant aims to support local school districts and community organizations in developing effective out-of-school programs to enhance student achievement and social development. With an award amount of $150,000, this grant focuses on providing academic, artistic, and cultural enrichment for students from high-poverty schools, ensuring they meet state academic standards through engaging and comprehensive programming.

Community Collaboration Challenge

Applications for the 2026 Community Collaboration Challenge are now open! With support from the Leon Lowenstein Foundation, the Challenge provides $5,000 – $10,000 awards to communities and is designed to support collaboration that expands and pilots evidence-based K-12 student supports in the form of high-impact tutoring, mentoring, student success coaching, postsecondary transition coaching, and/or wraparound/integrated student supports.

The Utah 21st Century Community Learning Center (CCLC) Grants provide essential support to Local Education Agencies and Community-Based Organizations, focusing on students in high-poverty schools. These grants aim to enhance academic enrichment and offer a variety of services, including tutoring, youth development activities, and family literacy programs. With over 30 grants serving more than 6,000 students, this initiative plays a crucial role in improving educational outcomes in Utah.