Search Through Grants for the Arts in Virginia in the U.S.

American Electric Power Foundation

The AEP Foundation focuses on improving lives through education from early childhood through higher education in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) and by providing support to help meet basic needs such as emergency shelter, affordable housing and eliminating hunger.

The Foundation also supports organizations whose mission and/or programming is committed to positive social justice outcomes. Other Foundation support may be offered to protect the environment, promote healthcare and safety, and enrich life through art, music and cultural heritage.

Focus Areas

The following focus areas will be eligible for consideration by the Foundation:

• Improving lives through education from early childhood through higher education, with an emphasis in the areas of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).
• Providing basic human services in the areas of hunger and housing to assure that people have the necessities to build successful lives.
• Embracing change and equity through sustainable programs that move social justice forward.

As the philanthropic arm of Elevance Health, Inc., the Elevance Health Foundation promotes the organization’s commitment to improving lives and communities.

For 25 years, we’ve been committed to, connected with, and invested in communities across the country. It all started with our signature Healthy Generations program, through which the Foundation targeted specific preventable health concerns while addressing the disparities and social drivers that affect them. By using innovative social-mapping technology and by analyzing public-health data, we gained a snapshot of the major health issues affecting each state, which allowed us to drill down to the zip-code level and target initiatives positively affecting the conditions that matter most. We called this “putting science behind the art of grantmaking.”

In 2021, the effects of COVID-19, together with social unrest, began to call attention to racial inequities and health disparities that have plagued our communities for too long and resulted in poorer health outcomes. Recognizing that health is so much more than healthcare, and understanding the needs of our communities, the Elevance Health Foundation redefined its approach and tightened its focus.

Over a three-year period (July 2021–July 2024), the Foundation committed up to $90 million toward partnerships and programs that improved maternal health, encouraged food as medicine, reduced substance use disorders, and supported community resiliency and disaster relief. We are proud to report that the Foundation has exceeded its commitment and awarded $97.3 million in grants, providing funding to over 12,000 nonprofit partners across the country. The Foundation will continue to focus its efforts in four key areas: Maternal/Infant Health, Food as Medicine, Behavioral Health, and Community Resiliency & Disaster Relief.

 Behavioral Health Grant

As a catalyst for positive change, the Elevance Health Foundation drives innovative and scalable solutions to address physical, behavioral, and social needs through a multi-lever approach to community investment.

Over the next five years, we will continue our grantmaking focus on substance use disorder (SUD) and expand our support to include mental health (MH) initiatives. We invite qualified nonprofits with a history of successful community initiatives to join us in this mission.

The Foundation will prioritize funding for programs that increase the number of individuals receiving treatment for MH and/or SUD, support prevention and early-intervention strategies, and seek to reduce loneliness among individuals with these disorders.

Types of Programs / Locations

Elevance Health will consider proposals from qualified organizations across the U.S. with an emphasis on:

National programs. Promoting scalable and sustainable systemic change, or

Local programs. Implementing relevant interventions in California, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Missouri, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Texas, and Virginia.

Grant Program Goals

Elevance Health Foundation is requesting proposals for programs and initiatives that support one or more of the following goals:

• Achieve a percent increase in the number of individuals receiving treatment services for MH and/or SUD
• Support prevention and early intervention strategies to reduce risks and harms associated with MH and/or SUD
• Reduce social isolation and feelings of loneliness among individuals with MH and/or SUD

About Us

Headquartered in the historic city of Frankenmuth, Michigan, Frankenmuth Insurance has been providing high quality insurance products and unparalleled service since 1868. We’re represented by more than 700 independent insurance agencies in 15 states— selling personal, commercial, and life insurance, neighbor to neighbor.

When you place your trust in us, we work to build a lasting relationship by exceeding your expectations with honest, open, and upfront service — every single time. It’s why 89% of our policyholders would recommend us to others, based on their claims experience. What are your dreams for the future? What worries keep you up at night? We want to know. And it all starts with a frank conversation.

Frankenmuth Insurance Foundation Charitable Grant

In the spirit of neighbor helping neighbor, the Frankenmuth Insurance Charitable Foundation was founded in 2016 to support qualified charities. The foundation supports tax-exempt, not-for-profit organizations and governmental units focused on community betterment and basic human needs.

The foundation focuses on supporting the following types of causes:

• Building better communities
• Basic human needs, such as affordable housing and food
• Disease research, preventive solutions, and general health and wellness programs
• Music, theater, and the arts

Some examples of not-for-profit organizations we’ve supported include:

• Meals on Wheels
• Food kitchens and food banks
• Domestic violence shelters
• Boys and Girls Clubs
• The Red Cross
• The United Way
• Toys for Tots and more

Background

The John Edward Fowler Memorial Foundation was created in 1964 by Pearl Gunn Fowler in memory of her late husband, John Edward Fowler, a Northern Virginia businessman. In recent years, the Foundation awarded about $3 million in annual grants to organizations in the Washington DC metropolitan area. Typically, first-time grants receive less than $10,000, depending on the nature and size of the applicant. Larger grant requests are commonly approved where there is a need, on-going relationship, or capital purpose grants (which are awarded only to prior grantees).

Smaller, grassroots, neighborhood-based organizations that derive at least 50% of their revenue from private sources tend to be more successful applicants. Hands-on, direct service organizations are given preference over “umbrella” agencies. The Foundation looks for evidence of sound management, fiscal responsibility, and volunteer involvement. The Foundation is delighted to receive information about grantees’ activities and programs.

Above all, Fowler is interested in working with grantees who have identified an actual need and are focused on serving that need. Fowler celebrates creative innovation and unique approaches as well as traditional forms of need-based giving.

The Fowler Foundation has historically focused giving toward empowering underserved and at-risk people; but past giving is not indicative of future potential grantees.

The Fowler Foundation has the following focus areas: 

• Adult literacy
• At risk children
• Childhood education
• Homelessness
• Hunger
• Job training & placement
• Medical and Legal Services

At Van Metre, our commitment to excellence and community is ingrained in everything we do. With a workforce of dedicated individuals, we prioritize longevity and expertise, to ensure that we cultivate a workforce that sustains market shifts and technological advancements.

We are consistent

Since 1955, Van Metre has focused on innovation, valuing talent, and ensuring stability. See how these core priorities have guided us for 70 years and counting.

Innovation

Van Metre leads the industry with cutting-edge innovation, delivering exceptional value through advanced technology. Our use of AI and chatbots ensures personalized, seamless customer interactions. We offer unique products and services tailored to modern homeowners, renters, and business owners, featuring state-of-the-art amenities. Our commitment to innovation is also reflected in our construction methods, including our pioneering factory-built homes that provide high-quality, efficient housing solutions.

People

Van Metre’s culture is authentic and shaped by its people. This approach is fundamental to why we've been consistently recognized as a Best Place to Work by the Washington Post every year since 2017. Our culture thrives on the contributions and collective spirit of our team members, fostering a workplace where everyone's voice is valued. By empowering employees to influence our environment, we ensure that every aspect of Van Metre reflects our shared commitment to excellence.

Stability

With a robust history of nearly 70 years, Van Metre has continued to boast a record of consistent profitability and resilience amidst diverse market conditions. Successfully navigating through economic downturns, consumer shifts, and industry fluctuations, Van Metre has maintained a potent presence in the Northern Virginia market. In 2023, our company marked its fifth-highest year of bottom line net income in our history, showcasing our commitment to financial stability and strategic growth.

For more than 170 years, Washington Gas has been an integral part of the growing metropolitan Washington, D.C. region. As a responsible corporate citizen, Washington Gas has developed a Charitable Giving Program that is designed to make a meaningful and lasting impact on the communities it serves through contributions, in-kind support and volunteer resources.

Focus Areas

The Charitable Giving Program focuses on three primary areas:

Bright Futures

• Emphasis is placed on educational activities targeted toward youths in the kindergarten to twelfth grade age range. Attention is given to the development of math, science, technology and business skills. Consideration is also given to arts-related programs.

Environmental Champions

• The focus in this area is on programs that promote cleaner air and water and that protect and preserve the ecological system of the metropolitan region.

Healthy and Safe Communities

• Consideration is given to health organizations that strive to improve the health and well-being of individuals within the community.
• Emphasis is also placed on energy assistance programs for low-income residents to heat and cool their homes, reducing illness and casualties resulting from exposure to extreme temperatures.

The Cameron Foundation strives to transform the Tri-Cities and surrounding counties into a healthy, vibrant, and economically vital region by strategically leveraging resources for community impact. This service area includes the cities of Petersburg, Colonial Heights, and Hopewell; the counties of Dinwiddie, Prince George, and Sussex; and the portion of Chesterfield County lying south of Route 10.

The Cameron Foundation’s General Grants include:

• Project or Program Grants 
• General Operating Grants
• Capital Grants

See complete details of each grant type here.

Funding Interests

The Cameron Foundation’s Board and staff periodically review the Foundation’s grant priorities and make adjustments to reflect what we have learned from past grants and to respond to new sources of information, such as the Foundation’s needs assessments, regarding emerging issues. As part of the most recent review that took place in June 2013, the Foundation has consolidated from seven to six funding categories and has clarified priorities within each of the areas, which are described below. The Foundation believes that these updates will help applicants gain a clearer understanding of the Foundation’s areas of interest. In turn, the Foundation will be better positioned to focus its grantmaking resources in more impactful ways for the benefit of the community.

Whereas previously civic affairs activities were funded through a stand-alone funding area, these endeavors will now be considered through the other funding areas, depending on the type of activity. For example, a proposal to fund civic engagement in a neighborhood revitalization effort will now be reviewed under the Community and Economic Development funding area.

Health Care

The Foundation supports programs that provide access to primary health services for the poor, uninsured, under-insured and underserved. This funding area also provides for capital improvements and technology advancements in healthcare. Our grantmaking strategy supports the following priorities:

Human Services

The Foundation supports programs that provide basic human needs and promote the development of life skills in children, youth and adults in an effort to improve the quality of life for individuals and families in the service area. Our grantmaking strategy supports the following priorities:

Community & Economic Development

The Foundation supports a holistic approach to community and economic development, including revitalization of distressed neighborhoods; workforce development and increasing workforce quality; and, expanding the capacity of economic development agencies to successfully pursue local and regional economic development opportunities.

Education

The Foundation supports funding for schools, organizations, and programs seeking to improve educational outcomes in ways that support success in school and life. The Foundation’s strategy in this funding area places priority on:

Historic Preservation & Conservation

The Foundation recognizes that the unique history and unsurpassed historic architecture in the region are significant assets which contribute to the quality of life. Historic preservation has an important community development and conservation role by strengthening existing neighborhoods and conserving resources by recycling older buildings. Environmental conservation also plays a critical role in protecting natural resources and ecosystems upon which communities depend. The Foundation has an interest in the following:

Arts & Culture

Arts and culture are vital to the health and well-being of individuals and communities and also serve as a catalyst for community revitalization. Equally important is the long-term growth and viability of arts and culture organizations as part of our community. Recognizing the importance of arts organizations, museums and other cultural venues, the Foundation has a special interest in the following:

About Us

The Kettering Family Foundation was founded by Eugene W. Kettering, son of Charles F. Kettering, and his wife Virginia W. Kettering in 1956. Today, the Foundation supports a broad range of charitable activities of interest to the Board of Trustees, which is composed of members of the Kettering Family.

Application Process

The Foundation trustees have historically approved grants in those areas where family members reside. At the same time 90%+ of the grants approved in recent years have been trustee endorsed, some of which are in areas that may be located outside of family residence areas. Family members live throughout the US, but there are larger concentrations between New York and New Hampshire, in addition to Colorado.

A trustee may choose to endorse a request at any time during the application review process; therefore, the Foundation is open to receiving Request Summaries that are not endorsed at the time of submission. Trustees may not be preemptively contacted to obtain an endorsement. The Kettering Family Foundation (KFF) will consider activities in the following categories:

Primary Areas of Support:

• Arts, Culture and Humanities
• Education
• Environment
• Health/Medical
• Human Services
• Public/Society Benefit

The Venable Foundation envisions that its philanthropic investments provide essential resources to nonprofit organizations in communities across the country. Guided by the belief that everyone has the right to equitable employment opportunities, healthcare, housing, food, and a vibrant cultural community, Venable grantees ensure that economically disadvantaged people are given the tools they need to thrive.

The average size of a Venable Foundation grant is approximately $10,000. First-time awardees are usually on the smaller end of the spectrum. It is up to the organization to determine what it feels is an appropriate request.

Funding Priorities

Grant support is provided to assist with general operations and projects. Currently, the Venable Foundation’s funding priorities include:

• Human Services
• Legal Services
• Education
• Workforce Development
• Youth Impact
• Health
• Environment
• Arts and Culture

You can learn more about each of these funding priorities below:

Human Services – The Foundation has a strong track record of supporting a breadth of essential human services, including programs that impact people experiencing homelessness and food insecurity, incarcerated and returning citizens, LGBTQ+ and immigrant communities, and those affected by domestic violence and housing insecurity.

Legal Services – We support the delivery of free or affordable legal services in our communities. Pro bono consulting and representation focus on a variety of issues, including domestic violence, housing, immigration, public benefits, and discrimination, among other areas. Legal service nonprofits providing “know your rights” training and other activities are also supported. The Foundation also supports training for youth and adults to ensure diversity and access to careers in the legal profession.

Education – The Foundation supports a wide array of early childhood, in-school, and out-of-school time initiatives that provide in-depth opportunities for learning and engagement to position children for success and level the playing field for economically disadvantaged youth.

Workforce Development – We believe that every individual deserves the opportunity to pursue gainful employment. Thus, we support organizations with the goal of developing the workforce of today and tomorrow. Successful programs recruit and train individuals and place them in relevant jobs so that they can earn a sustainable living wage for themselves and their families. Skill development is focused on low-income, underemployed, and unemployed community members, and on preparing youth for careers after their schooling is complete.

Youth Impact – The Foundation invests in services that impact children in each of our communities. These initiatives ensure economically disadvantaged youth are healthy and safe and have opportunities to thrive.

Health – The Foundation is committed to improving wellness and increasing access to care for economically disadvantaged individuals in the region. Successful organizations and programs work to eliminate barriers to healthcare for all ages and provide accessible and no-stigma testing for a variety of diseases. We support pediatric to geriatric services that address a variety of health concerns.

Environment – We support organizations involved in the preservation of our natural resources and those that are addressing natural or man-made disasters in our target regions. Programs educate communities and work for change on a variety of environmental issues, from wildfires to pollution.

Arts and Culture – The Foundation supports initiatives in the arts that promote deeper public engagement and build up the creative economy, with an emphasis on low-income and underserved communities.

The Foundation

When Herb Block died in October 2001, he left $50 million with instructions to create a foundation to encourage the art of editorial cartooning and to support charitable and educational programs that help promote and support the causes he championed during his 72 years of cartooning. The Foundation is committed to defending basic freedoms, combating all forms of discrimination and prejudice and improving the condition of the poor and underprivileged.

Pathways Out of Poverty

This program will focus on helping needy young people and adults gain a quality education. For projects serving youth, The Herb Block Foundation seeks proposals which focus on improving student achievement and healthy development of young people. Projects may include in-school and community-based educational programs, after-school activities, and mentoring programs. Programs designed to increase high school graduation rates are encouraged to apply.

For projects serving adults, The Herb Block Foundation seeks proposals to provide literacy education and GED preparation, and to offer vocational training and job placement.Grants in the range of $5,000 to $25,000 will be considered. Grants will be considered for one year's funding.

Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation

Grants from the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation are distributed in four focus areas (human needs, environmental stewardship, education, community vitality) and are limited to organizations defined as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS code.

Grant applications will be accepted online during two annual grant cycles, one in the spring and one in the fall.

Funding

Most grant awards range from $1,000 to $15,000, while higher amounts may be awarded when a program is an exceptional fit. We often receive funding requests far in excess of our Foundation budget. Regrettably we must often decline support for otherwise worthy proposals. Such a response does not reflect on Dominion Energy's view of the value of the organization or its services.

Mary Morton Parsons Foundation Grant

The Mary Morton Parsons Foundation was founded in 1988 by Mrs. Mary Morton Parsons as a private, non-operating foundation to support the capital needs of charitable organizations. To date, the Foundation has awarded approximately $73 million to qualified grantees.

Enriching Community Life throughout the Commonwealth

The Mary Morton Parsons Foundation enriches communities across the Commonwealth by providing capital support to cultural arts institutions, historic preservation sites, environment and conservation initiatives, community development efforts, education infrastructure, and the social services sector.

Arts & Culture

• Virginia's residents and visitors love Arts & Culture. That’s why The Mary Morton Parsons Foundation supports organizations that deliver cultural experiences through music, theatre, and visual and performing arts.

Civic & Community Needs

• The Mary Morton Parsons Foundation funds organizations that provide services to revitalize neighborhoods and local businesses, develop citizen leadership skills, bolster economic development, contribute to workforce training, and strengthen civic engagement.

Education

• From early childhood education to university and professional continuing education, The Mary Morton Parsons Foundation is proud to support educational organizations in the Commonwealth. We contribute funds to public, private, and faith-based schools that support both students and teachers.

Environment & Conservation

• To encourage responsible stewardship of the vast natural resources in the Commonwealth, The Mary Morton Parsons Foundation provides grants to conservation and environmental organizations.

Historic Preservation

• The Commonwealth of Virginia has a deep and long history. The Mary Morton Parsons Foundation is committed to preserving historically significant structures for future generations.

Social Services & Welfare

• The Mary Morton Parsons Foundation funds nonprofit organizations that address a wide range of human needs and aspirations. The Foundation serves people of all ages, socio-economic statuses, and backgrounds.

Grant Basics

Please be aware of the following before you begin your application:

• Typically our grants fund no more than 1/3 of a project’s cost.
• Grant awards are made on a challenge or matching basis.
• Grantees must meet all conditions stated in our award letter within 12 months of approval, and failing to do so may result in grant withdrawal.
• In the case of a construction grant, we will likely require the commencement of construction before we fund the grant.
• As a condition of funding, the Board of The Mary Morton Parsons Foundation expects that 100% of the grantee’s organizational board be contributing to the organization.

Application Deadline Information

Applications must be completed online by 5 pm EST on the following dates:

• Spring Cycle: Contact Form must be submitted by Feb 28. Application must be submitted by March 17 (Foundation response Early June)
• Fall Cycle: Contact Form must be submitted by August 29. Application must be submitted by September 15 (Foundation response Early December)

If these dates fall on a weekend or holiday, applications will be accepted until 5:00pm on the first business day following.

Mission

The Richard & Caroline T. Gwathmey Memorial Trust was established by Mrs. Elizabeth Gwathmey Jeffress in 1981 in memory of her parents. Mrs. Jeffress was particularly interested in the history, literature, art and architecture of Virginia.

Guidelines

Applications from nonprofits focused on the following issue areas will be accepted for the March 1 deadline (notification by June 30):

• Ensuring access to basic services – food, health care, shelter and/or safety 
• Creating, sustaining and retaining a viable workforce for Virginia
• Preserving and protecting the environment

Applications from nonprofits focused on the following issue areas will be accepted for the September 1 deadline (notification by December 31):

• Providing access to arts, culture and/or humanities 
• Preserving the important history of Virginia
• Improving educational outcomes for disadvantaged children, youth and/or adults

George J. & Effie L. Seay Foundation Grant

Program type

• Arts, Culture, & Humanities; Education; Human Services

Area served

• VA

Mission

The George J. & Effie L. Seay Foundation was established in 1957 to support and promote programs and services provided by qualifying charitable organizations in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Guidelines

As each foundation has unique giving preferences for the type of support provided (program, operating, capital, etc.).  

The Seay Foundation makes grants primarily for programs and projects designed to provide specific services or training. 

Grants from the Seay Foundation are 1 year in duration. Because requests for support usually exceed available resources, organizations are advised to apply to either the Morgan Trust or the Seay Foundation.

Marietta McNeill Morgan & Samuel Tate Morgan, Jr. Trust

Mission

The Marietta McNeill Morgan & Samuel Tate Morgan, Jr. Trust was established in 1962 to support and promote quality educational and human services programming in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Program type

• Arts, Culture, & Humanities
• Education
• Human Services

Background

The Foundation seeks to be responsive to community issues and needs. Our process is highly competitive and is open to new projects and new organizations. The following summary, Examples of our Grant-Making, is offered to help guide applicants. While this is not intended to be an exhaustive description and may, as appropriate, change over time, we hope that the following will suggest the kind of meaningful work in which the Foundation is seeking to invest.

Generally, the Foundation looks to support work that improves the lives of DC-area residents, with a particular emphasis on vulnerable and underserved individuals. We encourage organizations that provide comprehensive services and work towards systemic change, which addresses all levels of, and all who are affected by, the issue. The goal is that all in the region become self-sufficient and lead healthy, fulfilling lives. We search for nonprofits that also employ effective partnering and show cultural competence in engaging effectively with communities and people of various cultures and socio-economic backgrounds. On occasion, the Foundation invests directly in strengthening the nonprofit sector by helping current grantees to build organizational capacity and by supporting advocacy and other efforts.

Grants are made in five program areas:

Arts and Humanities

The Foundation recognizes the intrinsic value of the Arts and Humanities, as well as their power to innovate and create social change. The funds distributed support an array of artistic disciplines, as well as organizations that promote the humanities. These nonprofits demonstrate the depth and breadth of their initiatives, including how to meaningfully engage communities that have been historically underrepresented in the Arts and Humanities.

Community Services - The Community Services portfolio includes, but is not limited to:

• Community Development
  • The Foundation seeks to ensure access to safe housing and economic development across the region. These awards support affordable housing production and preservation, services for people experiencing homelessness or housing instability, programs to address wealth disparities, as well as civic engagement and volunteerism.
• Children, Youth and Families
  • Grants in this area help young people improve their academic performance, gain employment, develop relationships with trusted adults and make connections to the larger community. The Foundation prioritizes programs that promote youth voice, empowering young people to advocate for change within their schools and communities.
• Justice
  • The Foundation seeks to ensure access to justice for all individuals in order to create a more equitable region. These grants support civil legal aid, services to survivors of violence, efforts to help people stay out of the criminal justice system and advocacy for system reform.
• Workforce Development
  • The Foundation supports organizations that focus on specific fields and career pathways as well as those that concentrate on broader job- and career-readiness.
• Capacity Building
  • The Foundation supports capacity building organizations that improve the sustainability, quality and impact of nonprofits in the region.

Education

The Foundation recognizes that a high-quality and equitable education system can reduce barriers to opportunity and transform lives. These grants aim to ensure that from the first day children enter an early childhood setting, to the day they receive a technical certificate or a degree, they are receiving an education that is founded in strong relationships, responds to their unique needs, and equips them with the skills they need to thrive and succeed in life.

Environment

The Foundation strives to restore and protect our region’s natural resources so that all individuals can have equal access to clean water, air and land. These grants focus on the restoration and protection of local parks, the Anacostia and Potomac rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Grants to environmental education and stewardship programs for people of all ages create greater awareness of the dangers of an unhealthy environment and the need to protect open natural spaces.

Health & Wellness

The Foundation takes a holistic view of health and wellness to ensure that across the region people of all ages can live healthier lives, regardless of income or zip code. These grants include healthcare provision and supportive services, food and nutrition, as well as coalition building and advocacy.

Philip L. Graham Fund Grant

Named for the late Publisher of The Washington Post and President of The Washington Post Company (now Graham Holdings Company), the Philip L. Graham Fund devotes its resources to the betterment of the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area. The Fund awards several million dollars in grants annually to groups providing educational, health, community enrichment, and arts programs and services to communities in and around Washington, D.C.

What We Support

Understanding the broad and changing needs of the communities in and around Washington, D.C., the Philip L. Graham Fund is dedicated to supporting organizations that provide a wide array of direct services to individuals and families. The Fund awards grants across four focus areas and a geographically vast area that includes 10 counties in Virginia and Maryland as well as the District of Columbia.

The Fund is always looking for innovative and efficient organizations to support. Over the past several decades, the Fund has invested tens of millions of dollars in the physical infrastructure, information technology, and transportation needs of local nonprofit organizations. The Fund’s five-member board prefers to fund requests for one-time projects or expenses, but does occasionally award grants for program and general operating expenses.

In 2017, the Philip L. Graham Fund awarded $4.1 million in grants to 138 organizations across Virginia, Maryland and the District of Columbia. Twenty grants went to first-time grantees. Together, grants in the Health & Human Services and Education focus areas represented 84% of the Fund’s giving last year.

Focus Areas

From its inception, the Fund’s mission has been to use its resources for the betterment of the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area. In the past, the Fund also worked to foster improvements in the fields of journalism and communications. Grantees include large, regional organizations as well as small, community-based groups; all share a commitment to our community.

Health & Human Services

The Health & Human Services segment of the Fund’s portfolio is the largest portion of the Fund’s giving and includes a wide array of services designed to ensure everyone in the greater metropolitan area has access to the tools necessary for healthy and productive living. Nonprofits providing shelter, food, medical care, and workforce development programs to members of our community are a high priority for the Fund as well as efforts to increase access to fresh foods, legal services, routine primary care and dental visits, and comprehensive behavioral health services for children and adults.

Education

The Philip L. Graham Fund is committed to supporting efforts to advance and expand educational offerings for children and adults in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area. The Fund gives high priority to programs that improve public education and adult literacy.

Arts & Humanities

From its earliest days, the Philip L. Graham Fund has supported both large and small arts organizations in and around Washington, D.C. Many of the city’s largest and most innovative theater companies, museums, dance companies, and arts education programs can trace their earliest funding back to the Graham Fund. The Fund remains committed to supporting longstanding organizations devoted to bringing high-quality and unique programs to the community and to seeking out new organizations bringing fresh ideas and offerings to the metropolitan area. The Fund is specifically interested in arts programming that shows a clear intersection with one of the Fund’s other focus areas.

Community Endeavors

Recognizing the importance of Washington, D.C., to the nation and the world, the Fund considers requests from institutions that tell the stories of our country’s history, values, and accomplishments and strengthen the greater metropolitan community as a whole. This includes support for a broad spectrum of organizations, such as institutions of national significance located in the metropolitan area, improvement of local parks and playgrounds, and efforts to help our community through programs that strengthen families and neighborhoods.

The Foundation

The Richard S. Reynolds Foundation was established in Richmond, Virginia, in 1955. The foundation provides assistance locally and beyond to community causes such as science, education, healthcare, the environment and the arts.

Mission Statement

The Richard S. Reynolds Foundation is dedicated to strengthening communities and supporting future generations.

Since its inception in 1955, the Richard S. Reynolds Foundation has provided over $71 million in grants to community and worldwide organizations, supporting a broad range of causes such as education, the arts, health, science, history, the environment and those in need. From scientific research to educational initiatives, the Foundation is devoted to building strong communities and creating a positive and enduring impact on the world around us.

Legends & Lore Marker Grant Program

This program commemorates folktales, legends and folklife as an important part of every community’s cultural heritage.

Does your community have a great piece of folklore that should be shared? Legends & Lore is designed to promote cultural tourism and commemorate legends and folklore as part of our heritage.

Generally speaking, folklore is the stories, customs, traditions, and expressive arts and crafts that are passed on from one person to another, often from generation to generation. Folklore is the knowledge that people share as members of a group or community. Our shared identities and sense of belonging are the result of shared traditions, stories, customs, and activities.

Legends & Folklore Guidelines

Successful Legends & Lore marker applications typically fall within three main categories:

Folktale- Fictional stories passed down about people or events not proven to have existed. (e.g. Thirteen Curves, Champy, Headless Horseman, Tramping Ground)

Legends- Stories passed down that are popularly regarded as historical although not verifiable. (e.g. John Henry, Grancer’s Ghost, Betsy’s Ride, Natty Bumppo, “Natty Bumppo”)

Folklife- Traditions such as music, skills, crafts, and events passed along within a community. Often involving real people that can be verified with primary sources. (e.g. “Goose Day,” The Arborglyphs, Dennis McGee, Herbs & Healing, Folk Singer)

Subjects which are not successful include:

• Historical events lacking a folkloric aspect
• Purely literary creations
• Personal/family folklore which does not extend to the greater community

Our mission is to support programs, causes and organizations within Arts, Education, Environment, Health, History and Humanity, disciplines which resonated with Virginia Reynolds during her lifetime. The Foundation prioritizes support for causes with a connection to the Commonwealth of Virginia and will selectively support broader domestic and global causes within the six focus disciplines. The Foundation also actively seeks to support causes with a connection to current and future generations of the Reynolds family which are consistent with the Foundation’s mission.

The intellect, thrift, stewardship and generosity of Virginia Reynolds provided the resources enabling this Foundation to impact the Commonwealth of Virginia and beyond. The Foundation is dedicated to honoring her life and the Reynolds family tradition of service and philanthropy.

Norfolk Southern Grant

Norfolk Southern has been a long-standing supporter of the Hampton Roads nonprofit community. While it has transitioned its corporate headquarters to Atlanta, the company is committed to the Hampton Roads community and engaging with nonprofit organizations in the region. Norfolk Southern and the Hampton Roads Community Foundation will be distributing $1 million each year over five years through the Norfolk Southern Hampton Roads Community Fund to nonprofits working to make life better in the region. We are pleased to announce the guidelines for the fourth year of the program.

Grantmaking Priorities

Grant applications should explain how your organization addresses one or more of the following priority impact areas:

• Education and Workforce Development:
  • Preventing middle- and high-school students from dropping out of school
  • Engaging youth in successfully transitioning from high school into collegiate education or career-based certificate programs
  • Creating pathways to employment for adults with barriers to self-sufficiency
• Enriching the Community:
  • Providing support for organizations addressing food insecurity
  • Improving access to mental-health support
  • Preventing and ending homelessness and housing instability
  • Enriching the human experience through arts and culture
  • Improving public health and safety
• Sustainability:
  • Restoring and protecting the region’s land, forests, and natural waterways
  • Improving the region’s ability to adapt to the impacts of sea-level rise

Funding

In most cases, grants will be awarded for general support of your organization and can be used as the organization sees fit.

Applicants will not be asked on the application to request a specific grant amount. Award amounts will vary based on the applicant’s budget size and the number of grant requests received. To provide guidance for applicants, grant awards are anticipated to be in the following ranges:

• Organization Budget Size:  Under $1,000,000 then this is the Grant Award Range: $5,000 - $25,000
• Organization Budget Size:  $1,000,000 - $5,000,000 then this is the Grant Award Range: $10,000 - $50,000
• Organization Budget Size:  Over $5,000,000 then this is the Grant Award Range: $15,000 - $100,000

The Community Foundation reserves the right to award larger or smaller grants if warranted.

Our Focus Areas

Our goal is to have a positive impact on our communities through the power of our giving. We can only do this because of the strength of the relationships we have with our nonprofit partners. We are proud to invest in them to support their missions and their passions. We are also proud of the legacy of Pacific Life, its employees, and our participation in helping make our communities healthier, safer, and stronger. 

Supporting communities where Pacific Life employees live and work, the Pacific Life Foundation community impact-driven grants are focused on the areas of arts and culture; civic, community and economic development; environment; education; and health and human services. National and international philanthropic investments are focused on the areas of college and career readiness, food security, disaster relief, and ocean health, and mobilize our employees for social good.

Program Overview

The Pacific Life Foundation’s mission with our grants program is:

• To strategically support issue areas that align with the Foundation's interests and serve the communities where a concentration of Pacific Life employees work and live
• To support programs that recognize and encourage positive change in our local communities and populations served
• To respond to the greatest needs of our communities by partnering with organizations that can best identify opportunities or challenges, bringing forward proven strategies or finding innovative ways to have a meaningful impact on those most in need

Online grant applications are accepted from nonprofits seeking funds for programs or capital projects in the areas of arts and culture; civic, community & economic development; education; health and human services; and the environment. 

Every year, the Pacific Life Foundation receives more requests than it can fund. For this reason, the Foundation has established guidelines that allow it to use its resources as wisely as possible. Receiving and reviewing grant requests at a predetermined time each year provides the framework for a thorough and thoughtful grant making process.

Length of Funding Period

Nonprofits may reapply annually for funding; however, grants are made to any one nonprofit for no more than three consecutive years. Support may again be requested after a two-year interim period. Exceptions are made for nonprofits where a Pacific Life officer serves on the board of directors. During the two-year interim period, a nonprofit may submit an application for a capital grant

Types and Ranges of Funding - Program Grants and Capital Grants

Program grants range up to $15,000 for a one-year period of funding and are given to support programs, operating expenses, or collaborative programs with other nonprofits. If your organization would like to be considered for multi-year funding, you will have an opportunity to explain why your program should be considered for funding for up to a three-year period.

Capital grants typically range from $25,000 to $100,000 and are given to a nonprofit with an organized campaign already under way to raise substantial funds; for example, to finance a building or for major renovation. More than 50 percent of the campaign goal (excluding pledges of in-kind donations, anonymous gifts, and loans) must be pledged prior to consideration by the Foundation.

Our History

The United Company Foundation was created in 1986 to provide assistance to charitable organizations in our local community and throughout the surrounding region. The Foundation is a private non-profit entity providing grants to eligible 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations. The Foundation makes substantial contributions of time and money to those organizations served.

Our Mission

The United Company Foundation strives to serve the community in an effective manner with available resources while displaying fiscal responsibility. We apply innovative approaches to achieve positive measurable outcomes while using accountability and evaluation measures when contributing to the long term improvements of our community.

Areas of Interest

• Food / Shelter / Clothing
• Education
• The Arts
• Health / Wellness
• Community / Civic
• Children / Youth

About the Foundation

The Dennis Foundation was established by Benjamin Dennis, Jr. under a trust agreement dated June 2, 1966. Mr. Dennis lived in Richmond, VA, and his principal business activity was Dominion Oil Company. The company, which he owned jointly with his brother, was a major distributor of fuel oil products for local industry, residences, and retail gasoline outlets. Mr. Dennis was also Chairman of the Board of Directors of Southern Bank and Trust Company which is now Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. His legacy of philanthropy continues though his charitable foundation.

Mission

To provide funding in perpetuity for charitable, religious, scientific, literary, and educational causes in central Virginia, primarily Richmond, Virginia.

Program areas

• Arts, culture, and humanities
• Education
• Environment, animals
• Health
• Human services
• Public/society benefit
• Religion

Program limitations

There are no program limitations, but the foundation has a practice of primarily supporting education, health, human services, public/society benefit and religion located in the Central Virginia area, primarily Richmond, Virginia.

Geographic limitations

There are no geographic limitations; however, the foundation has a practice of primarily supporting organizations located in central Virginia, primarily Richmond, Virginia.

Average giving

• Average grant size: $2,000 to $7,500
• Average number of grants per year: 10
• Average total giving per year: $70,000

About the Foundation

The Shelton Hardaway Short, Jr. Trust was established under a trust agreement in 1974. Mr. Short was a lifelong resident of Virginia, and the trust makes grants to charitable and educational organizations primarily located in his home state. Grants are made in the form of memorials to one or more of Mr. Short’s family.

Mission

To support a variety of charitable causes primarily in Central and Southern Virginia.

Program areas

• Arts, culture, and humanities
• Education
• Environment, animals
• Health
• Human services
• Public/society benefit
• Religion

Average giving

• Average grant size: $10,000 to $50,000
• Average number of grants per year: 20
• Average total giving per year: $1,000,000

ABOUT ROOTED IN JUSTICE

“Rooted in Justice” is a funding program designed to help amplify youth voices and actions in the environmental and food justice movements.  Rooted in Justice supports community-based organizations and groups that manage established, youth-led, urban greening programs within a justice framework as a core part of their work, with two-year grants of $25,000/year.  

Rooted in Justice recognizes the importance and undeniable right of every young person to have the ability to develop their own relationship with the environment, be it through growing food, spending time with nature, creating community green spaces, or becoming environmental stewards. Rooted in Justice also honors the power and possibilities that arise when young people collectively work to be change-makers in their communities.

Rooted in Justice supports organizations, groups, collectives, and programs that work with young people between the ages of 12 to 20 in youth-led programming for communities or cultures which have historically or currently experience:

• A lack of access to land or nature;
• Agricultural oppression and/or neglect;
• Food apartheid; and/or
• Other forms of injustice based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics and disability.

Rooted in Justice awards a small number of grants each year with applications due in the fall and decisions made the following spring. Final grant decisions are recommended to the Cedar Tree board via a participatory grantmaking process with outside reviewers who have experience in youth-led urban greening, as well as food or climate justice programming. So far the program has awarded multi-year grants to 21 organizations and one-time grants to 10 additional organizations since 2021. 

Definitions

Rooted in Justice grants support organizations or programs that include all four of the elements described below: social justice, youth-led, urban greening, and cohort-based youth work. We articulate our understanding of those terms below in an effort to provide a guide for prospective organizations to use in determining whether their program is a good fit. However as we continue our work towards questioning and dismantling some of our preconceived notions, we recognize that these are not finite definitions and encourage prospective applicants who still feel their work may be a good fit to describe in their proposals why this is the case.  

Social Justice-Based Programs

Programs dedicated to creating equitable outcomes for communities directly affected by different aspects of injustice by:

• Sharing and redistributing power and resources;
• Amplifying voices and leadership;
• Tackling root problems through ongoing engagement and collaboration to find solutions, organize against oppression of all kinds and create mechanisms for change; and
• Developing a critical analysis with youth and community members.

Youth-Led

The development of youth leadership skills is a core part of programs funded by Rooted in Justice. Young people have the opportunity to play a role in the planning and decision-making for their program and may help shape the internal workings of the organization. Examples of youth-led programs include programs where participants: 

• Managing a portion of their programming budget;
• Co-facilitating program activities, meetings and gatherings;
• Shape their own programming and/or organizational strategic planning;
• Have regular and end-of-program opportunities to provide program feedback and evaluation; and
• Have opportunities for personal and/or professional growth within the program and organization.

Urban Greening

For the purpose of this grant we define “urban greening” as any activity that creates a mutually beneficial relationship between city dwellers and their environments. Programs that are a strong fit for Rooted in Justice will have many opportunities for youth to be outdoors.  Project settings can include, but are not limited to: 

• Urban and aquaponic farms
• Greenhouses and rooftop gardens
• Community gardens, green spaces, and rain gardens
• Composting sites
• Land conservation efforts
• Urban forests
• River or other water restoration  

Cohort-Based Youth Works

Rooted in Justice looks to fund organizations that build community with cohorts of youth through intentional, recurring programming. This grant is intended to support programs that offer youth significant learning and leadership opportunities as a group and as individuals. Priority will be given to organizations that have program infrastructure that supports a cohort of youth over time.  Drop-in programming, one-time conferences, or individual internships are not a good fit for Rooted in Justice.  

Youth Budgeting

As part of grant proposal, all Rooted in Justice grantees must share a plan to allocate a portion of the grant funds for youth participants to manage. What do we mean by this? We ask applicants to specifically set aside some amount of grant funds for youth to allocate to priorities of their choosing.  For example, youth participants can use their allocated funding to:

• Fund an entrepreneurial endeavor;
• Design the brand or swag for their group;
• Hire a speaker or outside expert to teach a new skill;
• Purchase supplies for a community-based art project;
• Host a celebration for their families, friends and neighbors;
• Pay for transportation to programming, special events, or conferences; and/or
• Any other youth-led activity the group may find beneficial.

Use of Funds

Rooted in Justice funding must be used for project support of existing youth led, urban greening, social justice work and associated general operating expenses. Operating expenses can include anything from program costs like staff salaries and youth stipends to organizational sustainability needs like major equipment purchases and leadership/staff training. If your organization’s entire mission is youth led, urban greening, social justice work, the Rooted in Justice grant can be general support. 

Funding

Two Year Grant

• Rooted in Justice Grant awards are two-year grants of $25,000 per year.
• After the initial two year grant, grantees may be eligible for a third year of funding at the same or lower level through a simple renewal process.
• In the 2025-2026 grant cycle, the Cedar Tree Foundation expects to support 4 organizations with multi-year grant awards.

Funding for Professional Development

• Each Rooted in Justice grantee organization also has access to an additional $6,000 to support professional development opportunities identified by each organization.  Half of these funds must be used to directly support the professional development of youth. 
• Rooted in Justice grantees can request reimbursement from this professional development fund to attend conferences, hire consultants, purchase equipment or software that increases organizational capacity, or participate in any activities that strengthen youth programming or justice practice of program providers in support of their youth development programming. The funds set aside for youth professional development can be used for youth exchanges or youth participation in conferences and other professional development opportunities directly for youth.  

Community Professional Development Calls

• Cedar Tree works with grantee partners to assess their professional development interests and facilitates on-line gatherings of staff or youth for skill shares, trainings, and networking opportunities.
• These network calls will likely happen 2-3 times per year. 

Moses D. Nunnally, Jr. Charitable Trust B Grant

Charitable Trust B was established by the late Moses D. Nunnally, Jr. of Richmond, Virginia in 1984. Mr. Nunnally created this trust exclusively for charitable purposes. The trust has supported many worthy charitable organizations since its inception.

Mission

To support a variety of charitable activities in the Greater Richmond, Virginia area.

Program areas

• Arts, culture, and humanities
• Education
• Health
• Human services
• Religion

Program limitations

• Charitable Trust B has a practice of primarily supporting charitable organizations located in the Greater Richmond, Virginia area.
• Preference may be given to programs related to healthcare, education, human services, religion, arts and culture.

States served

• Virginia

Geographic limitations

• Charitable Trust B has a practice of primarily supporting charitable organizations located in the Greater Richmond, Virginia area.

Funding

• Average grant size: Range varies but generally $5,000 to $75,000