Search Through Grants for Religious Nonprofits in Alabama in the U.S.

Who We Are

The Creag Foundation is a private grant making foundation established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington.

The founders of the Creag Foundation believe that meaningful change can only be achieved through hard work, creativity and passion. They also understand the practical mechanisms that allow charitable organizations to succeed and grow. As a group, Creag Foundation principals are dedicated to helping today’s most innovative programs improve the human condition in a wide variety of ways.

Our Focus

The broad purpose of the Foundation is to support the efforts of nonprofit organizations who are innovators in the field of human services. Our particular focus is on smaller organizations that are starting out or established organizations that are looking for funding to take their organization in a new direction.

What We Fund

/ What We Fund

The Creag Foundation is focused on innovation in the industry. We will consider proposals from 501(c)(3) organizations that are finding new ways to address societal issues facing the nonprofit community. Applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for one year before submitting. If your organization has held 501(c)(3) status for over a year, and your believe that your organization has a new approach to an existing social problem or is addressing a previously unaddressed social issue, you are welcome to contact us and request that we consider your organization for a funding opportunity.

Background

Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation seeks to dramatically improve the lives of underserved communities across the globe by supporting scalable, innovative, and impact-first solutions that leverage existing systems and stakeholders. Our goal is to find social entrepreneurs with dynamic products or services that have a proven ability to positively impact the lives of underserved people, and nurture those organizations at the early stages by providing capacity, capital, and community.

Our application process is designed to be open and accessible, and we accept applications year round from across our priority geographies and sectors. Borrowing from our venture capital legacy, we find exceptional entrepreneurs and provide them with: 

Capacity

• The core of DRK’s model is deep and extensive operational and technical support for each portfolio organization, both through dedicated hands-on Board service and specialist capacity-building resources for fundraising, board and organizational development, leadership, financial support, and scaling strategy,

Capital

• DRK provides up to $300,000 USD in either unrestricted grant funding or investment capital over a three-year period, and

Community

• DRK convenes our portfolio and alumni annually, facilitating connections and community. 

What We Fund

DRK Foundation funds early-stage social impact organizations solving the world’s biggest social and environmental problems using bold, scalable approaches.

What stage of growth does DRK Foundation typically fund?

Early stage: Organizations who are early stage, which we define as post-pilot and pre-scale. This typically means: 

• Your program, product or service is already being used in the market or in the field, 
• You have early indication that your model is having its intended impact on the beneficiary populations,
• Your organization is relatively young (ideally between two and five years old, although we will consider both younger and older organizations).

Venture funding: In the case of for profits, we typically support Seed to Series A organizations, and never lead rounds; we also generally but not exclusively refrain from participating in financings exceeding a $15M USD post-money valuation.  

Global Impact Cash Grants

Identifying and incubating innovative early-stage solutions. We identify, incubate, and develop innovative early-stage solutions with the highest potential for impact. Global Impact Cash Grants go to nonprofit organizations (NPOs) and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) that address a significant social problem. We're looking for programs that fit within our investment sectors, focus on the underserved, and use technology to improve the reach and efficiency of services.

We accept applications year-round from eligible organizations. A brief Letter of Inquiry (LOI) is used to determine whether your organization will be invited to complete a full application. Please expand and carefully review each of the three sections below to learn more

Our priority social impact sectors

We focus on investing in innovative, tech-enabled solutions to the challenges and opportunities that matter most to communities in need, prioritizing four social impact sectors:

Cisco Crisis Response

Mobilizing to provide essentials to communities in need and those in crisis, including food, housing, secure connectivity, and disaster relief

By leveraging Cisco’s people, technology, financial resources, and strategic partnerships, we help strengthen community resilience and drive long-term recovery from crises.

Education

Supporting students, teachers, and schools by increasing engagement, building skills, promoting subject mastery, and expanding their capacity to thrive

Cisco is committed to inclusive access to digital skills training and supporting those who use technology to educate. Through programs like Cisco Networking Academy and social investments in education, we create new opportunities for individuals to thrive.

Economic Empowerment

Transforming communities through skill development, long-term career opportunities, entrepreneurship, and access to financial products and services

Strategic grants that unlock economic prosperity and growth for individuals and communities.

Climate Regeneration

Building an inclusive, regenerative, and resilient climate future through education, regenerative agriculture, conservation, protection, and clean energy solutions

Our efforts began in 2021, when the Cisco Foundation committed US$100 million over 10 years to fund nonprofit grants and impact investing in climate solutions. 

Community Grants

State Farm is committed to helping build safer, stronger and better-educated communities.

• ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​We are committed to auto and home safety programs and activities that help people manage the risks of everyday life.
• We invest in education, economic empowerment and community development projects, programs and services that help people realize their dreams.
• We help maintain the vibrancy of our communities by assisting nonprofits that support community revitalization.

Good Neighbor Citizenship company grants focus on safety, community development and education.

Focus Areas

Safety Grants

We strive to keep our customers and communities safe. That's why our funding is directed toward:

• Auto safety — improving driver, passenger, vehicle or roadway safety
• Home safety — shielding homes from fires, crime or natural disasters
• Disaster preparedness and mitigation
• Disaster recovery

Community Development

We support nonprofits that invest and develop stronger neighborhoods. That's why our funding is directed toward:

• Affordable housing — home construction and repair
• Commercial/small business development
• Job training
• Neighborhood revitalization
• Financial literacy
• Sustainable housing and transportation
• Food insecurity

Education

Our education funding is directed toward initiatives that support the following programs:

• Higher education
• K-12 academic performance
• K-12 STEM
• Pathways for college and career success

Philanthropy is our commitment to communities in which we operate and broader society. We focus our resources on a limited number of key projects that can deliver valuable benefits from our contributions and those of our partners. We give priority to innovative, high-quality projects that meet the following criteria:

• promote sustainable development
• offer an opportunity for Roche to use its expertise and logistics capabilities
• involve Roche actively at an early stage with local authorities and established partners
• engage Roche employees in cultural (focus on contemporary arts), educational and social activities
• managed by an accredited charity

Our four focus areas

Humanitarian and Social

We direct the majority of our philanthropic donations to humanitarian and social development projects.

Science and education

We are dedicated to programmes that promote scientific interest and provide educational opportunities for young people around the world.

Community and Environment

We are committed to building stronger communities and responding to natural disasters sustainably.

Arts and Culture

We support groundbreaking contemporary art, cultural projects and activities that explore the parallels between innovation in art and in science. 

Mission

Driven by a philanthropic calling to support marginalized communities throughout the world, the Semnani Family Foundation partners with on-the-ground organizations and leverages its resources in a cost-effective and efficient manner that delivers the maximum benefit.

History

Guided by his grandmother Maliheh’s example and teachings, Khosrow Semnani and his wife Ghazaleh established the Semnani Family Foundation in 1993. The foundation’s first grant was issued through CARE International to an orphanage in Romania that cared for newborns affected by HIV. Over the last few decades, the foundation has continued to build upon its mission to empower the disaffected, partnering with a variety of organizations in different countries who can make the greatest impact.

In addition to its global influence, the Semnani Family Foundation established roots within the state of Utah with the founding of Maliheh Free Clinic in 2005 to provide free healthcare to thousands of uninsured people in the Salt Lake City area.

Where We Work

The Semnani Family Foundation focuses primarily on promoting health, education, and disaster relief for marginalized communities all around the world. Driven by a clear mission to adapt and serve at the global level, we have leveraged our resources to make a meaningful impact in the following countries so far:

• Afghanistan
• Bosnia
• Colombia
• England
• Ethiopia
• Ghana
• Guatemala
• India
• Iran
• Kenya
• Madagascar
• Mali
• Mexico
• Pakistan
• Philippines
• Romania
• Somalia
• South Africa
• Tanzania
• Tonga
• Uganda
• United States
• Yemen

At the heart of the Foundation lies a fervent commitment to human welfare, always prioritizing health and the needs of society’s most vulnerable.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust is devoted solely to the funding of charitable, scientific, medical and educational organizations.

The Board endeavors to support soundly-managed charitable organizations that give service with a broad scope, have a substantial effect on their target populations, and contribute materially to the general welfare. The Board does not discriminate on the basis of ethnicity, race, gender, sexual orientation or religion.

Wells Fargo and the Wells Fargo Foundation collaborate with a wide range of nonprofit organizations that align with our strategic funding priorities. We prioritize our funding to activities and programs that have a broad reach and support the needs of underserved communities. We aspire to have a positive impact on the communities we serve by using our financial and volunteer resources and business expertise in collaboration with community organizations to help solve complex societal problems.

• Financial health
• Housing affordability
• Small business growth
• Sustainability

We may also support other local needs in eligible communities such as disaster relief, arts and culture, civic engagement, education, human and social services, and workforce development. However, opportunities are limited as our intent is to direct the majority of our giving within our major focus areas.

Our Mission

Our mission is to continue and further the philanthropic legacy of Gardner Cowles, Jr. and the Cowles family, which includes promotion of education, social justice, health, and the arts.

The Founder

The Cowles Charitable Trust was first established in 1948 by Gardner “Mike” Cowles, Jr. (1903-1985). Born into the Cowles publishing family of Des Moines, Iowa, Mike was the youngest of Gardner Cowles and Florence Call Cowles’ six children. A newspaper editor and publisher by trade, he was committed to his family’s traditions of responsible, public-spirited, and innovative journalism as well as philanthropy. 

The Cowles Charitable Trust supports the arts, education, the advancement of ethical journalism, medical and climate research.

Presentation Grants Program

Presentation Grants are an opportunity for organizations in South Arts' nine-state region to receive fee support to present Southern guest film directors, visual and performing artists, or writers from outside of the presenter's state. Artist fee support is awarded for:

• film (documentary, fiction, experimental, and animation),
• performing arts (theater, music, opera, musical theater, and dance),
• literary arts (fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry),
• traditional arts, and
• visual arts (crafts, drawing, experimental, painting, photography, sculpture, and mixed media).

Projects must include both a public presentation (film screening, performance, reading, or exhibition) and an educational/community engagement component. These grants are limited and very competitive. Based on the artist fee, the maximum request is $9,500 for modern dance and contemporary ballet or $7,500 for other artistic disciplines. 

South Arts is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. We have prioritized this commitment to ensure that Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) led organizations, LGBTQIA+ led organizations, and organizations representing persons with disabilities are represented as both applicants and grantees. In addition, we encourage applications for projects that engage BIPOC artists, LGBTQIA+ artists, and artists with disabilities.

About the Foundation

Jesse W. Couch lived a life of zeal, honor, and dedication to the betterment of his community. The Couch family now humbly stewards the foundation he created to carry on his legacy of service for future generations. We believe that impact is best accomplished through partnerships with local organizations that know the people and communities they serve. We invest in and support efforts to protect the environment, further conservation and preservation initiatives, and save historical architecture that preserves community heritage. We also support initiatives that promote wellness and mental health and organizations seeking to provide and further education for all communities.

Annual Grant Focus

Each year, we seek to partner with and support non-profit organizations making an impact in the focus areas listed here.  The focus areas for 2025 are:

• Animal Wellbeing: We are dedicated to helping nonprofit organizations that nurture compassion and respect for all living animals. We must have animal-focused organizations that advocate for animal rights and provide humane treatment across all spectrums.
• Early Childhood Education: We are looking for schools that are providing young children with a creative and balanced approach to education. Things we love in early childhood curriculums:
  • Life Skills
  • Collaboration With Their Peers and Teachers   
  • Having Fun   
  • Montessori Teachings   
  • Project Based Teachings   
  • Diversity   
  • More Time Outside   
  • Less Screen Time
• Teachers: Teachers are essential to providing children with the best possible education. We must invest in their future and are always looking for teams that help them succeed in educating future generations.
• Get Outside: Being outside can improve memory, fight depression, lower blood pressure, and more! We support organizations that facilitate and encourage more outdoor activities that help create healthier communities. 

How and Why Giving Back to Communities is Important to O’Reilly

From O’Reilly Auto Parts’ inception, O’Reilly co-founder C.H. “Chub” O’Reilly instilled the culture of maintaining high standards for every endeavor, including the area of building civic pride. With Chub’s good example to guide them, all four of his children adopted a business and family philosophy of “giving back” to the community as the Company grew and prospered. Supporting a large number of charitable organizations in all communities in which we operate has long been a focal point for O’Reilly Auto Parts. In order to make an even greater impact, the O’Reilly Automotive Foundation was established in 2020.

O’Reilly Automotive Foundation, Inc.

Impact

The O’Reilly Automotive Foundation complements O’Reilly Auto Parts’ role as the Friendliest Parts Store in Town. The Foundation serves as an additional conduit to connect with, support, and strengthen the communities in which O’Reilly Auto Parts’ team members and customers live and work. The Foundation continues the philanthropic legacy of the O’Reilly family as dependable community partners, seeking to support critical services in times of need to build stronger communities.

Mission

The O’Reilly Automotive Foundation strives to have a lasting, positive impact in the communities where O’Reilly Auto Parts’ team members and customers live and work by supporting organizations and programs which address issues critical to improving the quality of life for underserved and underrepresented individuals and families. In particular, the Foundation will concentrate its giving in support of organizations and programs addressing economic stability and mobility, workforce development, health and social services, and disaster relief.

Economic Stability and Mobility

Advocating for and endowing programs which provide assistance with issues including hunger, homelessness, and poverty for the economic betterment of the communities in which we operate.

Workforce Development

Promoting programs which aid in workforce readiness, technical training, and literacy, including children’s literacy, to ensure the continuance of an educated society and a capable, innovative workforce.

Health and Social Services

Championing and prioritizing matters of health, including mental and behavioral health, access to basic needs such as medical and dental care for underprivileged communities, and providing funding for organizations focused on childhood development and children’s advocacy as well as care and support for victims of domestic violence.

Disaster Relief

Providing funding and visibility to organizations specializing in providing relief from natural disasters and state of emergency, including providing temporary shelter, food, water, and hygiene or sanitation products to those affected and aiding in cleanup efforts.

Application Requirements

We will consider three principal types of grants:

Project Support Grants support specific projects or programs aligned with our mission. These requests may include some funds earmarked for the overhead costs associated with running a project.

General Operating Support Grants provide limited general operating support for the core operations or organizations whose missions and activities are aligned with our mission. These grants will often help the grantee build organizational, programmatic, and fundraising capacity. Operating support is not intended to help organizations in fiscal crisis. Applicants must have a current strategic or business plan that clearly outlines the organization’s goals and presents a plan for achieving results. Operating support grants must not exceed 15% of an organization’s total agency budget.

Capital Support Grants provide limited support for capital campaigns to fund the acquisition and construction of facilities, existing property renovation, or the purchase of major equipment. The program has a comprehensive approach to funding capital initiatives, which also includes funding for increased program capacity. A feasibility study may be required for capital initiatives to be considered.

2024-2025 Competitive Grantmaking Guidelines

Established in April 2017, the Atmore Community Foundation, an affiliate of The Community Foundation of South Alabama (“CFSA”), serves as a vehicle to receive donations and bequests to benefit the community in perpetuity. The Atmore Community Foundation Advisory Committee is pleased to announce the opening of its 2024-2025 competitive grantmaking cycle which will award grants to local nonprofits. These grants are funded through the Atmore Community Fund, a field of interest fund established by donors to address the most pressing needs in the Atmore community.

Grantmaking Priorities

For 2024-2025, the Atmore Community Foundation will accept proposals from organizations that address the needs of the Atmore community and strive to improve the quality of life of Atmore residents, including but not limited to the following areas: Arts & Culture, Community/Economic Development, Education, Environment/Beautification, Health & Wellness, Human Services, Recreation, Technology, &/or Youth.

Programmatic Grants

The Foundation is most interested in supporting sustainable, evidence-based programs that have the potential to produce meaningful results on community priorities and/or needs. Funding is provided for the expansion or refinement of existing programs that, through program evaluation, show promise of effectiveness, value, and sustainability. Grants to programs with a successful track record are also considered. Program grants are restricted to expenses directly and indirectly related to the operation of the project. No more than 10% may be used to pay for indirect or administrative expenses. Program grants may not be used for general operating support or organizational capacity building. 

Capacity Building 

The Foundation defines organizational capacity building as any strategy that improves and enhances an organization’s ability to achieve its mission and sustain itself over time. The Foundation recognizes great value in developing the internal capacities of organizations to increase their effectiveness and community impact. More pointedly, the Foundation believes that by supporting organizational capacity building it will enable organizations to strengthen their operations and effectively address systemic issues that significantly impede the quality of life for individuals and families that they serve.

Organizations proposing a capacity building grant should address how the project strengthens the organization and how it will enhance its mission and benefit the community served. 

Examples of capacity building activities include the following:

• Strategic planning, organizational assessments or evaluations
• Leadership development and training (Board, Executive or Staff)
• Enhanced marketing, branding and communications planning or technology
• Improved fundraising and fund development training or technology
• Database or technology improvements

Funding Considerations:

The Atmore Community Foundation seeks to fund proposals that:

• Focus on work aligned with the Atmore Community Foundation’s mission
• Exhibit the potential to accomplish meaningful results or impact in one or more priority areas
• Address community challenges, underserved populations, and/or service gaps
• Articulate measurable outcomes (desired results), effective approaches, and viable plans for maintaining ongoing efforts
• Demonstrate strong community support, capable leadership and knowledge of, and involvement in, the community served
• Include a realistic project budget and organizational financial information demonstrates fiscal health
  • (e.g. diversified revenue sources, sustainability, solvent, etc.)

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation focused on making grants to support environmental, human services and other causes.

The Lawrence Foundation was established in mid-2000. We make both program and operating grants and do not have any geographical restrictions on our grants. Nonprofit organizations that qualify for public charity status under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code or other similar organizations are eligible for grants from The Lawrence Foundation.  

Grant Amount and Types

Grants typically range between $5,000 - $10,000. In some limited cases we may make larger grants, but that is typically after we have gotten to know your organization over a period of time. We also generally don’t make multi-year grants, although we may fund the same organization on a year by year basis over a period of years.

General operating or program/project grant requests within our areas of interests are accepted. In general, regardless of whether a grant request is for general operating or program/project expenses, all of our grants will be issued as unrestricted grants.

Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation Grant

The Foundation will consider requests to support museums, cultural and performing arts programs; schools and hospitals; educational, skills-training and other programs for youth, seniors, and persons with disabilities; environmental and wildlife protection activities; and other community-based organizations and programs.

2024–2025 Competitive Grantmaking Guidelines

Established in August 2018, the Tri-City Community Foundation, an affiliate of The Community Foundation of South Alabama (“CFSA”), serves as a comprehensive center of philanthropy to inspire and promote resiliency and enhance the quality of life for its residents in the cities of Foley, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach as well as the communities within their respective service areas. The Tri-City Community Foundation Advisory Committee is pleased to announce its first competitive grant-making cycle which will award grants to local nonprofits whose mission supports initiatives that support the Grantmaking Priorities listed below. These grants are funded through the Tri-City Community Fund, a field of interest fund established by donors to address the most pressing needs in the Tri-City community.

Grantmaking Priorities

For 2024-2025, the Tri-City Community Foundation will accept proposals from organizations that strive to preserve and/or enhance the quality of life of residents in the Tri-City communities. Programs or projects could address one or more of the following: Arts, Mental Health and Wellness, Education and Workforce Development, Leadership Development and/or Economic Opportunity.

Funding Considerations:

The Tri-City Community Foundation seeks to fund proposals that:

• Focus on work aligned with the Tri-City Community Foundation’s mission
• Exhibit the potential to accomplish meaningful results or impact in one or more of priority areas
• Address community challenges, underserved populations, and/or service gaps
• Articulate measurable outcomes (desired results), effective approaches, and viable plans for maintaining ongoing efforts
• Demonstrate strong community support, capable leadership, knowledge of and involvement in the communities served
• Include a realistic project budget and organizational financial information that demonstrates fiscal health
  • (e.g., diversified revenue sources, sustainability, solvent, etc.)

2024-2025 Competitive Grantmaking Guidelines

Established in September 2020 the North Baldwin Community Foundation, an affiliate of The Community Foundation of South Alabama (“CFSA”), serves as a comprehensive center of philanthropy to enhance the quality of life for its residents. The North Baldwin Community Foundation Advisory Committee is pleased to announce the opening of its 2024-2025 competitive grantmaking cycle which will award grants to local nonprofits. These grants are funded through the North Baldwin Community Fund, a field of interest fund established by donors to address the most pressing needs in Bay Minette and surrounding areas.

Grantmaking Priorities

For 2024-2025, the North Baldwin Community Foundation will accept proposals from organizations that strive to preserve and/or enhance the quality of life of residents in the community of Bay Minette and/or surrounding areas. Programs or projects could address one or more of the following: Arts, Community Development, Education, Environment/Beautification, Health, Human Services, Recreation, Technology, or Youth.

Funding Considerations:

The North Baldwin Community Foundation seeks to fund proposals that:

• Focus on work aligned with the North Baldwin Community Foundation’s mission
• Exhibit the potential to accomplish meaningful results or impact in one or more priority area
• Address community challenges, underserved populations, and/or service gaps
• Articulate measurable outcomes (desired results), effective approaches, and viable plans for maintaining ongoing efforts
• Demonstrate strong community support, capable leadership and knowledge of, and involvement in, the communities served
• Include a realistic project budget and organizational financial information demonstrates fiscal health
  • (e.g. diversified revenue sources, sustainability, solvent, etc.)

Centene Charitable Foundation

Successful corporate citizenship happens when companies invest in the local organizations that know their communities best. The Centene Foundation works with our local partners on initiatives that focus on inclusion, the whole person and community development.

Vision

Centene’s purpose is transforming the health of the community, one person at a time. The Centene Foundation is an essential part of how we pursue this purpose. We achieve measurable impact for the communities we serve through partnerships and philanthropy efforts that invest in initiatives with holistic approaches to dismantling barriers to health.

Areas of Focus

Reflecting Centene’s commitment to the needs of those who rely on government-sponsored health care and to addressing social determinants of health and health equity, preference will be given to initiatives in three distinct areas of focus.

• Healthcare Access
• Social Services
• Education

Compass Society Grant Description

Created to “Map the Future” the Compass Society brings the region’s spirit of innovation to generosity and serves as a catalyst for Greater Huntsville’s future. Compass Society funding supports high-impact, collaborative, and visionary projects that span the Community Foundation’s Quality of Life Framework. Grants of $50,000 will be awarded to nonprofit organizations serving the Greater Huntsville area – Jackson, Limestone, Madison, Marshall, and Morgan Counties. Exact allocations will be determined based on funding and projects.

Through the power of generosity, the Compass Society implements collaborative, visionary projects that have a significant and sustainable impact across many areas of our community's quality of life. Visionary doesn't just mean something new, but rather it is the future-focused opportunity to create a community you want for your children and your grandchildren. These proposals require organizations in our community to work together to achieve something greater than any one organization could achieve alone, no matter how great the work they are doing. What are your bold dreams for our community's future?

Focus Area: The work of the Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville stretches across eight areas in the Quality of Life Framework, which are defined below. 

• ARTS & CULTURE: Enriches the community through arts, culture, and lifestyle experiences
• BASIC NEEDS: Provides food, clothing, shelter, and other basic necessities
• ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY: Equips individuals and organizations through training, creating employment opportunities, and promoting growth of the entrepreneurial ecosystem
• EDUCATION: Invests in early childhood development, K-12 students, college and career readiness, post-secondary education, and lifelong learning
• ENVIRONMENT: Stewards our community’s natural resources
• HEALTH & WELLNESS: Addresses physical and mental health and wellness
• NEIGHBORHOODS & COMMUNITIES: Strengthens entire neighborhoods or communities through a holistic approach
• RECREATION: Engages in experiences that refresh the mind, body and spirit

Grantmaking

Compass Society grant objectives include grant applications that are high-impact, collaborative, visionary, and span the Community Foundation’s Quality of Life Framework.

Funding Priority: Priority will be given to projects that meet the following criteria:

• High-impact: Affect a large number of people through scalable, ripple-effect transformation
• Collaborative: Involve three or more partners that may or may not all be nonprofits. The organization applying must meet the Eligible Recipient qualifications below.
• Span the focus areas in the Quality of Life Framework: Impact three or more of the focus areas listed above
• Visionary: Create innovative, future-focused projects or programs

Philip A. Morris Fund for the Design Arts

“Good design must be part of the fabric of the community.”

The mission of the Philip A. Morris Fund for the Design Arts is to create and expand awareness of the design arts and the impact of quality design in our community.

In 2015, Philip Morris—a champion of how good design enriches our communities and our lives, and a former executive editor of Southern Living magazine—established the Morris Fund, an endowed Field of Interest Fund at the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham.

He envisioned a fund that could provide resources to support his passion for the design arts and the role that the design arts play in building and enhancing communities. Central to the mission of the Fund is creating and expanding awareness of the design arts and the impact of quality design.

Broadly stated, “design arts” include but are not limited to urban planning; design and the built environment; architecture; graphic arts and graphic design; and landscape planning and design.

An Advisory Committee for the Philip Morris Fund for the Design Arts reviews grant proposals to ensure that they meet Mr. Morris’s specific definition of design arts and his intentions for broad community building and inclusion. The Advisory Committee reviews grant proposals, conducts site reviews, and presents recommendations for funding to be awarded annually in August. The awards are a function of funds available and the number of grant-worthy requests.

The Community Foundation along with the Advisory Committee of the Morris Fund hope to connect with local government officials, other nonprofit organizations, and those in the design arts community to collaborate on future projects that amplify the design arts’ impact in the Greater Birmingham area.

Funding

If eligible, applicants may request a grant in one of the following three categories:

• Strategic Purpose: These grants can help establish a new program, improve or expand an existing program, increase organizational capacity, meet a new capital need (building, equipment, etc.), and/or launch a policy/systems change effort. Requests should not exceed 25% of the proposed project budget.
• General Operating for Emerging Organizations: Organizations with documented revenue under $25,000 (based on previous fiscal year) may request a general operating support grant in this category. General operating support is defined as funding to maintain current programs and/or operations.
• General Operating Support: Organizations with documented revenue between $25,000 – $100,000 (based on previous fiscal year) may request a general operating support grant in this category.

The two general operating categories are the same in substance; they just provide emerging organizations two opportunities to receive general operating support funding as they grow. Eligible organizations (under $25,000 revenue) may receive General Operating for Emerging Organizations funding one time only. Eligible organizations ($25,000 – $100,000 revenue) may receive General Operating Support funding one time only. Any grants awarded from 2023 on are counted toward these limits.

There is no maximum request amount, but in recent years awarded grants have ranged from$5,000 to $100,000 with an average amount of $35,000. For Strategic Purpose grants, requests should not exceed 25% of the budget for the proposed project. Organizations requesting a grant of $75,000 or greater must have an annual or semi-annual independent audit.

Our Mission

We seek to bring together and direct philanthropic assets to make southwest Alabama a better place.

Arts and Culture Competitive Grant Cycle

CFSA will accept grant applications for projects focused on increasing access to high-quality arts and culture.

Increasing access to high-quality arts and culture

• The Foundation will work with community stakeholders and organizations to support programs and projects that:
  • Ensure equitable access to high quality arts education for K-12-aged students.
  • Support arts experiences for students in and outside of school, especially within underprivileged communities.
  • Provide opportunities for all to experience culturally diverse arts programming led by professional teaching artists and arts educators that reflect their communities.

Types of Grants

These grants are typically one-year funding commitments.

Program Grants

Program grants enable a nonprofit organization or coalition of organizations and interested stakeholders to implement a specific project designed to benefit the community. CFSA is most interested in supporting sustainable programs that have the potential to produce meaningful results on community priorities and/or needs. Funding is provided for the expansion or refinement of existing programs as well as new programs that show promise of efficacy and sustainability. Grants to programs with a successful track record are also considered. Program grants are restricted to expenses directly and indirectly related to the operation of the project. No more than 20% may be used to pay for indirect or administrative expenses.

Grant Amounts

As a general rule, CFSA prefers program grant requests that do not exceed 50% of the budget for the program/project/activity for which the proposal is seeking support. This demonstrates that the proposal has a diversified base of support and has some measure of community buy-in. CFSA grant amounts may range from $5,000-$15,000. Requests should not exceed $15,000.

Our Mission

We seek to bring together and direct philanthropic assets to make southwest Alabama a better place.

Mental and Physical Health Competitive Grant Cycle

CFSA will accept grant applications for projects focused on supporting mental and physical health for individuals and families.

Increasing mental and physical health support

• The Foundation will work with community organizations to promote overall health and wellness within the region by supporting evidence-based, tested, and effective programs and activities that provide:
  • Support for individuals and families who are battling trauma.
  • Support for individuals and families experiencing trauma due to isolation, stress, economic anxiety, and joblessness as well as intimate partner violence and child abuse.
  • Support for individuals and families who are battling illnesses and chronic diseases such as alcoholism, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, etc.
  • Access to comprehensive specialty care and services across the lifespan with emphasis on under-resourced populations and communities.

Types of Grants

These grants are typically one-year funding commitments.

Program Grants

Program grants enable a nonprofit organization or coalition of organizations and interested stakeholders to implement a specific project designed to benefit the community. CFSA is most interested in supporting sustainable programs that have the potential to produce meaningful results on community priorities and/or needs. Funding is provided for the expansion or refinement of existing programs as well as new programs that show promise of efficacy and sustainability. Grants to programs with a successful track record are also considered. Program grants are restricted to expenses directly and indirectly related to the operation of the project. No more than 20% may be used to pay for indirect or administrative expenses. Grants may not be used for general operating support or organizational capacity building.

Capacity Building Grants

CFSA defines organizational capacity building as any strategy that improves and enhances a nonprofit’s ability to achieve its mission and sustain itself over time. CFSA recognizes great value in developing the internal capacities of nonprofit organizations to increase their effectiveness and community impact. More pointedly, CFSA believes that by supporting organizational capacity building it will enable nonprofits to strengthen their operations and effectively address systemic issues that significantly impede the quality of life for individuals and families that they serve.

Organizations proposing a capacity building grant should address how the project strengthens the organization and how it will enhance its mission and benefit the community served. Funding for capacity building is not designed to support a specific program or initiative, but rather to enhance the overall daily operations of an organization. Examples of capacity building activities include the following:

• Strategic planning
• Enhanced marketing and communications
• Leadership capacity (Board or Executive)
• Improved fundraising and development
• Organizational assessments
• Staff and board training
• Technological improvements

Capital Project Grants

Capital grants are used to support the construction, renovation, expansion, or major repair of physical facilities or infrastructure. These grants are typically awarded to create or improve spaces that serve the public or fulfill your organization’s mission.

Key features of a capital building grant:

• Purpose: Focused on physical projects (not operating costs or programs).
• Examples of use: Constructing a new building, renovating an existing structure, upgrading accessibility, or improving energy efficiency.

A Community Foundation grant can support your work and our shared vision for a just, prosperous, and unified region where every person is empowered to reach their full potential. Grants focus on five priority areas that guide our leadership, grantmaking, and community support, and are open to nonprofits serving Blount, Jefferson, Shelby, and St. Clair Counties.

The Community Foundation has two grantmaking cycles. During each cycle we accept applications in all five of our Priority Areas: Thriving Communities, Equity and Inclusion, Regional Cooperation, Economic Opportunity for All, and Overcoming Persistent Poverty.

Grant Cycle 2

The Community Foundation has two grantmaking cycles. During each cycle we accept applications in all five of our Priority Areas: Thriving Communities, Equity and Inclusion, Regional Cooperation, Economic Opportunity for All, and Overcoming Persistent Poverty.

Grant Terms

Strategic grants may be requested over a one-, two-, or three-year period based on the scale and schedule of the proposal. General operating grants are limited to one-year terms.

Grant Amounts

There is no maximum request amount, but in recent years awarded grants have ranged from $5,000 to $100,000 with an average amount of $35,000.

For Strategic Purpose grants, requests should not exceed 25% of the budget for the proposed project. Potential or secured support for the remaining 75% of the budget should be identified. The applicant’s request and project budget should be reasonable in relation to the applicant’s prior revenue, budget, and activities.

Organizations with documented revenue under $25,000 (based on previous fiscal year) may request a general operating support grant in this category. General operating support is defined as funding to maintain current programs and/or operations.

Organizations with documented revenue between $25,000 -$100,000 (based on previous fiscal year) may request a general operating support grant in this category.

Organizations requesting a grant of $75,000 or greater MUST have an annual or semi-annual independent audit.

Our Mission

The Hansen Family Foundation provides opportunities to domestic, international, secular, and non-secular organizations that support the American way of life, which is defined by the principles of “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” 

Causes

Children

The Hansen Family Foundation supports causes dedicated to helping children both home as well as abroad. Learn More

Education

The Hansen Family Foundation believes that a decent education should be made available to everyone, young or old, the world over. Learn More

Animals

The Hansen Family Foundation believes in helping those who cannot speak on their own behalf. Learn More

Environmental

The Hansen Family Foundation is dedicated to preserving the world we all share. Learn More

Humanitarian

The Hansen Family Foundation views the plight of our fellow man as an opportunity to actively engage and effect change. Learn More

Arts & Culture

The Hansen Family Foundation supports all forms of artistic and cultural endeavors. Learn More

Pathway to Sustainability Fund

he Pathway to Sustainability Fund was established to support a cohort of nonprofits intentionally focus their work as it relates to their mission, collaborate to leverage resources, and track outcomes in order to strengthen their organizations and our community.

Fund Description: The Pathway to Sustainability Fund is a collaboration fund to incentivize Madison County direct social service organizations who provide case management to do the following:

• Focus on their mission
• Collaborate to leverage resources
• Track outcomes
• Strengthen organizations and their community

Progress on the Pathway is not linear but progress is possible. Each client’s journey will be unique and organizations will need to work with each client on an individual basis to understand and provide support for their journey. This is not an exhaustive list of client experiences in each phase of the Pathway. It is also not a complete list of possible Focus Areas. Each organization may determine what their clients’ experience looks like and where the organization can intentionally focus its efforts to be most effective.

Crisis

• Likely unemployed & struggle to meet basic needs
• May rely entirely on family, friends, agencies, & other assistance to get by
• May struggle with addiction & mental health issues
• May even engage in illegal activities to survive
• Feel hopeless, helpless, isolated

• Homeless Shelters
• Mental Health Crisis Care
• Hospital Emergency Care
• Law Enforcement
• Domestic Violence Programs
• Basic Needs (food, clothing,shelter, utility assistance)

Transition

• May have obtained part-time employment but still struggle to make ends meet
• Begin to access government and other resources
• Have found a safer living environment
• May enter recovery programs
• Begin accessing legal services

• Transitional Housing Programs
• Health Care Programs
• Child Care Assistance
• Transportation Assistance
• Mental Health, Substance Abuse & Recovery
• Legal services & Court Systems
• Job skills & Employment Programs

Stability

• Earn an hourly wage & regular paycheck & benefits
• Can pay their bills on time & reduce debt
• Have found permanent, safe, affordable housing
• May increase skills and education
• Rely more on their own resources with less outside assistance

• Affordable Housing
• Education & Certification Programs
• Quality Child Care Programs
• Workforce Development
• Financial Counseling
• Health Care & Insurance

Growth

• Permanent employment with good pay, benefits, & opportunities to advance
• May become homeowners
• May even start a business & employ others
• Comfortably meet needs & some wants

• Home-ownership Programs
• Financial Institutions
• Investment Advisers
• Two & Four Year Colleges
• Wellness Centers
• Entrepreneurial Programs
• Personal & Spiritual Growth

Abundance

• Become self-reliant with a sense of having enough & some to spare
• Plan for retirement and build wealth
• Continue to give back by being generous in many ways, including mentoring others
• Worry less & experience peace of mind

Focus Areas

• Philanthropy
• Volunteering & Mentoring Programs
• Civic Engagement & Leadership Development
• Life-Long Learning Opportunities
• Asset Creation & Growth
• Spiritual Development

Why We Created The Pathway To Sustainability

Our vision is to end generational poverty. We believe that is only possible by working with one client at a time and making intentional investments to break down barriers to progress. We know we can’t do it alone. We work with a variety of community partners who share our vision to close service gaps and help our participants move toward self-reliance.

We started the Community Connections project to help create a community wide collaborative care network that now has almost 200 organizations working together on our network. The next step is to create a community model to help each organization on the network find a focus and work in their area of strength. We hope that, as a result, we will all better serve our clients, reduce duplication of services, and leverage community resources.

Using inspiration from change models in other communities, we have created the Pathway model with input from local organizations. We hope the model will start a community conversation about focusing on what we each do best as we work together to help our clients progress toward self-reliance.

Georgia-Pacific Foundation

Established in 1958, the Georgia-Pacific Foundation sets aside resources to improve life in the communities where we operate. We’ve worked with thousands of outstanding community-based programs, service projects and disaster relief efforts, focusing our investment in four areas we believe make the most impact:

• education
• entrepreneurship
• enrichment of community
• environment

Investment Priorities

• Aligns with GP’s mission and values
• Aligns with GP’s Four Focus Areas of giving: Education, Environment, Enrichment of Community and Entrepreneurship
• Serves communities where GP has manufacturing facilities
• Creates value by contributing to and positively impacting long term well-being and sustainability of GP communities

Helping Build Better Futures

Our mission is to deliver great value to our customers every day. For over four decades, our deep commitment to the principles of providing value and caring for others has helped define our culture. It extends beyond the walls of our stores, distribution centers, and offices, and into our local communities around the world. The intersection of these principles defines our global community mission:

Deliver great value to our communities by helping vulnerable families and children access the resources and opportunities they need to build a better future.

Our Social Impact Areas

We bring our community relations mission to life around the world by focusing our giving on four social impact areas where we believe we can have the most impact and are critical to helping families and children succeed and thrive.

Basic Needs

We are passionate about supporting nonprofit organizations that help fill critical basic needs such as a warm meal, clean clothing, and a safe place to sleep for vulnerable families.

Education & Training

Our efforts have focused on quality enrichment and extracurricular programs that provide skills, resources, and opportunities to support school and career success for children, teens, and young adults.

Patient Care & Research

We support organizations that deliver services to families and children facing health challenges and life-threatening illnesses.

Empowering Women

We support programs that provide services ranging from help for those fleeing domestic violence, to others that offer education, training, and job placement resources.