Best Grants for Youth Programs

Community Foundation of Mason County

The Community Foundation of Mason County – MCCF, Inc. is a county wide community foundation serving Mason County, WV. 

With support from our donors, the Foundation is happy to support community projects and programs that create opportunities for Mason County, its citizens and its communities.

Community Impact Grants

Community Impact Grants (CIG) are made in the fields of: Arts and Culture, Education, Health and Human Services, Recreation, Youth and Family Services, and Community and Economic Development. The Foundation focuses on: Capital and Equipment Projects, Program Development, Capacity Building, and Operating Support. 

Community Impact Grants: Capacity Building

Capacity Building Grants support projects that provide an organization with technical assistance and/or training to be able to more effectively meet their mission and/or provide services

Priority is given to projects that:  

• have significant impact on the people and communities served by the applicant organization;
• reach new audiences, expand existing programs or services, or respond to emerging needs;
• strengthen the organization’s capacity to deliver its services and meet community needs;
• are well-planned and can reasonably be achieved; 
• have a matching grant opportunity or seek a matching grant to leverage more funding;  
• have limited access to other sources of support; 
• serve the Mason County community.

Important Information for Grant Seekers

• Organizations may submit only one application per grant cycle. The only exception may be for organizations that have more than one physical site, with each site having its own board or governance structure. Such organizations must contact the Foundation before submitting more than one application to discuss eligibility.

• The total amount of funds requested generally may not exceed $10,000. Requests for more than $10,000 may be considered for projects that are highly collaborative or for projects that will have a significant impact on the community at large. As noted above, applicants must contact the Foundation prior to submitting a request in excess of $10,000.

• Organizations receiving a Community Grant in any grant cycle from the Foundation are not eligible for funding in the immediate next cycle.

• When the Foundation declines to support an application, the applicant may call the Foundation to discuss their proposal and to inquire about reapplying. After an application is declined once, the organization may re-submit the application one more time; if an application has been declined twice, then the organization may not submit another request for funding of the same project. 

Grant requests will be considered based on the applicant’s service area and on grant funds available.

IDEA Collaborative Grants

Ongoing Support for Black-Led Nonprofits in Frederick.

The IDEA Collaborative Grant is a new 12-month funding opportunity designed to support meaningful, outcomes-driven partnerships between Black-led nonprofit organizations addressing a clearly defined community issue. The grant emphasizes capacity building and a growth mindset, encouraging hands-on collaboration specifically among Black-led organizations.

Organizations interested in applying are encouraged to attend a virtual information session on July 21, 2026, where Foundation staff will provide an overview of the application process and timeline.

Grants will be awarded in November 2026 for programming and collaboration to take place in 2027. Two grants of $40,000-$60,000 each will be awarded to two separate collaborative efforts. Support from a consultant will be available to help shape the collaborative structure during the application process.

Projects must align with AFF’s key focus areas:

• Youth, Children & Families
• Public & Society Benefit
• Health & Human Services
• Arts & Culture

Community Impact Grants (CIG) -

Community Impact Grants (CIG) are made in the fields of: Arts and Culture, Education, Health and Human Services, Recreation, Youth and Family Services, and Community and Economic Development.

The Foundation focuses on:

• Capital and Equipment Projects, Program Development, Capacity Building, and Operating Support.

Grant requests will be considered based on the applicant’s service area and on grant funds available. Grants typically range from $1,000 – $10,000.

Capital and Equipment Grants

Support the renovation or construction of facilities, purchase of major equipment, major repairs to facilities.

New Jersey Department of Health

The scope of work for the public health system is ever-expanding, and the Department is on the frontlines in leading the response to public health challenges. The Department has three primary branches – Public Health Services, Health Systems, and Integrated Health. All work collaboratively toward improving health by strengthening New Jersey’s health system.

Our Mission: Protect the public’s health, promote healthy communities, and continue to improve the quality of health care in New Jersey

Smile Strong New Jersey

Executive Summary

The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH), Population Health Branch, Division of Health Promotion (DOHP), Oral Health Services Unit, is announcing a competitive Request for Applications (RFA) for the 2027 Smile Strong NJ. This statewide initiative is designed to improve oral health education, literacy, and access to preventive services among Head Start and Early Head Start children, school-aged children (Pre-K through 12), school nurses, school staff, parents, community organizations, parenting groups, and other vulnerable populations, including pregnant women and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The program also supports the delivery of preventive oral health services and facilitates the establishment of a dental home, ensuring continuity of care and access to ongoing oral healthcare services across the lifespan.

The OVW Fiscal Year 2026 Consolidated Grant Program aims to support community-based initiatives that assist children and youth impacted by domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. It also focuses on engaging men and youth in prevention efforts. Eligible applicants can develop or expand strategies for prevention, intervention, and treatment, addressing the needs of affected individuals aged 0-24. Applications are due by September 10, 2026.

Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation

Our Mission

Cultivating philanthropy to build better communities.

In support of our mission, Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation is committed to bringing the full capabilities of an independent community foundation to smaller communities in our region by working with local volunteers and donors to improve their hometowns.

Ben Harrington Youth Sports Fund

Supporting Youth Athletics in the Mattoon Community

The Ben Harrington Youth Sports Fund honors the life and legacy of Ben Harrington by supporting youth athletic organizations that help young people develop teamwork, sportsmanship, leadership, confidence, perseverance, and a lifelong love of sports. The Fund seeks to strengthen youth athletic programs by providing financial assistance for projects that improve the quality, accessibility, and safety of youth sports opportunities within the Mattoon community.

Funding may be requested for equipment (including safety, training, and adaptive sports equipment), uniforms, facility improvements, registration scholarships, coaching education, program expansion initiatives, and qualifying tournament participation. Competitive applications will clearly demonstrate a need, provide a realistic timeline and budget, identify the number of athletes impacted, and explain how the project will improve the quality, accessibility, or safety of youth sports in the community.

Applications must include the organization’s mission, a project description, project timeline, number of athletes impacted, an itemized budget, and supporting documentation such as quotes, estimates, invoices, or receipts

The CKCF’s Youth Sports Fund of Grayson County provides scholarships for youth in Grayson County to participate in recreational Baseball, Soccer, and Softball, ensuring every child has the opportunity to engage in sports, regardless of financial circumstances. Applications are accepted for one season and are evaluated based on need. Scholarships cover registration fees and sports equipment, but do not include travel expenses or tournament fees. Funding is limited, and assistance is not guaranteed for all applicants.

Central Kentucky Community Foundation

Established in 1960 as North Central Education Foundation, Central Kentucky Community Foundation is one of more than 780 community foundations in the United States today. We serve the Lincoln Trail Region, offering our donors and partners a variety of ways to touch our community through philanthropic giving.

Youth Sports Fund of Hardin County

CKCF’s Youth Sports Funds encourage and support youth participation in recreational sports, making these opportunities available to any player, regardless of their financial situation. Our Youth Sports Funds offers scholarships for families who need financial assistance for children to play sports.

Scholarships will be paid directly to the sports league, not to the individual participants. Funding is limited, and scholarships are not guaranteed to all applicants.

Central Kentucky Community Foundation

Established in 1960 as North Central Education Foundation, Central Kentucky Community Foundation is one of more than 780 community foundations in the United States today. We serve the Lincoln Trail Region, offering our donors and partners a variety of ways to touch our community through philanthropic giving.

Youth Sports Fund of Grayson County - Fall Football

CKCF’s Youth Sports Funds encourage and support youth participation in recreational sports, making these opportunities available to any player, regardless of their financial situation. Our Youth Sports Funds offers scholarships for families who need financial assistance for children to play sports.

Scholarships will be paid directly to the sports league, not to the individual participants. Funding is limited, and scholarships are not guaranteed to all applicants.

About Us

Georgia’s Own Foundation, Inc. is the charitable arm of Georgia’s Own Credit Union and was founded in 2016 as a way to deepen and amplify the outreach efforts of the organization.

Mission

Since 1934, Georgia’s Own Credit Union has been committed to the “people helping people” philosophy. We not only strive to serve our members’ financial needs, but to give back to our communities and empower local youth through financial assistance and volunteer opportunities. Our goal is to improve what matters by helping people get ahead, get involved, and own their future.

Georgia's Own Grant

At least 85% of the Foundation’s grants must fall within our mission of empowering local youth. Past grantees have used their funds to promote children’s wellbeing through financial literacy, sports-based youth development, access to healthcare, food, and housing, education, the arts, and more.

Each year a small amount may be allocated outside these areas, which enables us to respond to unplanned opportunities and meet unknown needs.

Grant Size

Georgia’s Own Foundation is proud to partner with non-profits in our community through an annual grant program. The total amount awarded will be determined by the previous year’s fundraising efforts, and individual grants may vary in size—up to, but not to exceed $10,000. Larger grants will be made possible through special fundraising events such as our annual Golf Challenge.

What We Support

The Georgia’s Own Foundation funds proven programs OR new/expanding initiatives run by qualified nonprofits that empower local youth in the following categories:

• Literacy
• Financial Literacy
• Food Insecurity
• Sports-Based Youth Development
• Children’s Healthcare
• Career Readiness/Workforce Development
• Mentorship
• Arts Education
• Mental Health
• Disability Services

The Gulf States Eye Surgery Fund, managed by the Greater New Orleans Foundation, offers financial assistance to nonprofit organizations aiding low-income patients in need of eye surgery and care. With a total of $35,000 available, grants typically average $20,000 but can vary. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt nonprofits and those with fiscal agents. Priority is given to organizations showcasing strong leadership, fiscal responsibility, and a commitment to equity in underserved communities.

About

The Greater New Orleans Foundation is the philanthropic institution dedicated to driving positive impact through philanthropy, leadership, and action in the Greater New Orleans Region.

Our roots extend back to the Community Chest of New Orleans established in 1923. For 100 years, we’ve connected our donors and fundholders with causes that they’re passionate about to affect transformational change. It’s how we help people make the most of their investment, while helping the members of our communities that need it most.

Harold W. Newman, Jr. Charitable Trust (A total of $40,000 Available)

Funding for organizations that provide health care assistance to residents of New Orleans whose U.S. adjusted gross income for the preceding tax year, when added to any tax-exempt income and income from a spouse for that same year, is at least $75,000 but not more than $200,000. The health care assistance must be for cancer, heart disease, or Alzheimer’s.

The average grant size is $20,000; grants may be larger or smaller.

About the Daniel R. & Anne M. Harper Foundation

The Harper Foundation has a legacy of caring for the Southwest Florida community, continuing the founding couple’s legacy of quiet compassion and generosity – now and for generations to come.

Harper Foundation Grant

Is your nonprofit passionate about improving the lives of people in Southwest Florida? Apply now to be considered for a grant through the Harper Foundation. Grants range from $5,000 to $30,000.

The Harper Foundation focuses on awarding grants to nonprofits in Southwest Florida that serve the local community. Areas of interest include the advancement of science, education, youth development, and religion.

About Us

Community Foundation of White County

Your community foundation is a philanthropic, nonprofit 501c3 organization that partners with visionary donors who believe that philanthropy has power to positively transform our White County community … forever.

To strengthen and transform our White County community by fostering charitable giving, philanthropic aspirations, and leadership.

Grants Available

Women Giving Together Grants

Grant are available to non-profit organizations serving White County women and children. This year's cycle will have an added focus on early childcare initiatives.

About Us

Community Foundation of White County

Your community foundation is a philanthropic, nonprofit 501c3 organization that partners with visionary donors who believe that philanthropy has power to positively transform our White County community … forever.

To strengthen and transform our White County community by fostering charitable giving, philanthropic aspirations, and leadership.

Grants Available

Mental Wellness Grants

Through this grant cycle, $75,000 is available to non-profit organizations serving White County with a focus on mental wellness initiatives. Awards to be announced 10/30/26.

The Ludcke Foundation

Guidelines

To identify and support charitable endeavors that provide needed resources and services to children and families, with an emphasis on emotional and physical health, education, and social development.

The Foundation devotes its grants to the fields of education, health, and human services. The trustees have a special interest in programs that focus across two or three of the foundation’s areas of interest and in partnering with other donors with similar objectives to enable more ambitious projects.

Current Grantmaking Preferences

Job training for systems involved young people, job training for adults facing significant barriers, and limited support for innovative approaches to helping children in underserved New England communities overcome significant and often overlapping barriers to educational success.

Access to health programs for all ages, and behavioral health services for children and teens in underserved communities or otherwise facing significant barriers.

Homelessness prevention, housing assistance, food security, legal assistance, holistic family support, support for young people at risk, and support for victims of domestic violence.

The OVC FY 2026 grant aims to improve outcomes for child and youth victims of human trafficking by integrating policies at state and Tribal levels. This funding opportunity focuses on developing strategic plans to address the challenges faced by minor victims, enhance coordination among systems like child welfare and juvenile justice, and ensure effective identification and prosecution of traffickers. By fostering multidisciplinary approaches, the program seeks to provide comprehensive support and services to these vulnerable populations.

FCU Foundation for Our Communities

People helping people…one smile at a time.

Frankenmuth Credit Union is proud of the active role its staff and board have played in impacting the communities we serve through volunteer hours, wage donations and civic group participation. We believe in “people helping people”. That’s why the Frankenmuth Credit Union Foundation for Our Communities was formed, to provide grants to promote the betterment of local communities…one smile at a time. It’s our simple gift of friendship, our act of kindness and our pledge of devotion to friends and neighbors.

To date, over $4.6 million funds have been donated since 2014 with over $438,300 donated in 2025 alone to over 400 worthy community causes.

Foundation Grant

The Frankenmuth Credit Union Foundation for Our Communities is a source of grants to promote the betterment of all of our communities.

The Amy Adina Schulman Memorial Fund

The Amy Adina Schulman Memorial Fund is a Princeton, New Jersey-based endowment fund providing grants to individuals, young adults who volunteer or intern for progressive social action projects or programs in an area of their interest and commitment. The Amy Adina Fund also sponsors a lecture each year on a relevant and timely topic related to its educational mission.

The Amy Adina Schulman Memorial Fund was started in 1987 one year after Amy Adina, 20, died suddenly while a student and activist at Rutgers University. It is a realization of her family and her communities’ desire to celebrate her life, to fulfill her dreams and her potential. Since its inception, almost 1,500 grants have been awarded for work in Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and the United States—nearly $1,000,000 in total. The Amy Adina Schulman Memorial Fund is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.

About Our Grants

Small grants (depending on length of service), are awarded to as many applicants as possible rather than giving larger amounts to fewer individuals. The number of awards has grown each year thanks to annual contributions as well as to gifts sent to the Fund to honor special occasions and life cycle events.

Detroit Lake Foundation

Established in 2015, the mission of the Detroit Lake Foundation is to enhance the quality of life for residents and establish a sustainable economic recovery to ensure that the city thrives for current and future generations.

All projects managed by Detroit Lake Foundation are projects that will improve the community infrastructure and benefit the entire community. Detroit Lake Foundation is a 501C3 organization.

Policy and Procedure for DLF Grant Request

The DLF raises funds through events that benefit the local Detroit-Idanha economy and through generous donations from individuals and businesses who want to join together to sustain the strength and future of the Detroit Lake region.

The DLF may, at its discretion, post information about the completed grant projects and programs, including grant funding amounts, on the website and in social media.

This policy and procedure as adopted by the DLF Board provides the structure for granting funding to projects and programs consistent with the mission of the DLF. This policy is reviewed annually by the DLF Board.

DLF Grant

How Grant Funds are Paid

• Unless otherwise specified and approved by the DLF Board, grants shall be on a reimbursement basis and payable upon receipt of expense documents related to the grant activity.

• Grants that provide advance funding will be based on the proposed budget, are subject to Board approval and are required to submit financial documentation upon completion.

United Way of Northeast Arkansas 

United Way seeks to improve lives across Northeast Arkansas by mobilizing the caring power of our community. From strengthening local resiliency to advancing health, youth opportunity, and financial security, United Way of Northeast Arkansas seeks to achieve a community where all can thrive. 

United Way offers an opportunity for donors to unite under one umbrella in order to create change. Its mission is accomplished through data collection and measurement, initiatives and collaborations, and the funding of local nonprofit programs. 

Community Impact Grant 

Community Impact Grants are available to organizations that serve or operate in Clay, Craighead, Cross, Greene, Jackson, Lawrence, Poinsett, Randolph, and Mississippi counties.

Our Focus and Priorities

Successful applicants will present programmatic needs and demonstrate how grant funding would strengthen the work of their agency within United Way's focus areas:

• Youth Opportunity - We create pathways for young people to reach their goals, from early childhood education to college and career success. Together, we are helping young people realize their full potential.

• Financial Security - We connect people to education, tools, and job training so they have financial freedom and peace of mind. Together, we can create a stronger financial future for every generation.

• Healthy Community - We improve access to nutritious food and quality health education and services, so people have the resources they need to lead healthy lives. Together, we can improve health and well-being for all.

• Community Resiliency - We help communities prepare for, prevent, and respond to challenges, from crisis support and disaster relief to environmental protection. Together, we can address urgent needs today for a better tomorrow. 

In addition, grant applicants must demonstrate how their work identifies and directly impacts one or both of our target populations:

• Individuals and families living in or below the ALICE threshold (visit www.unitedforalice.org/arkansas for more information)
• Those experiencing racial/ethnic disparities 

About Us

Building a better community

Part of the mission of the Suffolk Foundation is to facilitate and develop philanthropy which will allow charitable grant making to benefit the citizens in the City of Suffolk and the surrounding area. The Suffolk Foundation’s mission is to assist individuals, corporations, organizations, and other foundations in meeting their charitable goals.

Coach Ron Killmon PRLPT Fund:

The Suffolk Foundation manages the Coach Ron Killmon PRLPT Fund, supporting nonprofit organizations and projects that serve disadvantaged children and youth, and that emphasize values such as character, work ethic, and discipline. The Killmon Fund has $1,666 to award in 2025. Organizations and projects that meet the criteria for the Suffolk Foundation’s other grants may also be eligible for matching funds.

About Elevate Youth California (EYC)EYC is grounded in social justice youth development (SJYD), which expands the concept of a positive youth development framework and addresses social factors including racism, xenophobia, and other racial inequities youth face as they develop into adulthood. Through a public health and harm reduction lens, EYC supports culturally and linguistically responsive, healing-centered, and trauma-informed strategies that prevent substance use before it begins, particularly in communities disproportionately harmed by the war on drugs. Youth Substance Use Disorder Prevention: Standard Track Cohort 8The required goal of this funding opportunity is to address SUD prevention by investing in youth

leadership and civic engagement for youth of color and 2S/LGBTQIA+ youth ages 12 to 26 living in communities disproportionately impacted by the war on drugs. California Department of Health Care Services is seeking applications that: 

• Support youth engagement that focuses on youth civic engagement, specifically in communities disproportionately impacted by the war on drugs.
• Possess cultural humility and responsiveness with staff and organizational leadership who reflect the racial, ethnic, and cultural community they intend to serve.
• Prioritize public health solutions that focus on positive messages to prevent SUD.
• Develop culturally responsive and linguistically appropriate social justice youth development, peerto-peer support, and mentoring programs that are healing-centered, trauma-informed, and focused on youth ages 12 to 26.
• Utilize an intersectional approach to health equity through policy, systems, and environmental change.
• Implement SUD prevention activities that address the root causes of SUD, reduce risk factors, and increase protective factors. 

FC Cincinnati Foundation

FC Cincinnati is committed to leaving a legacy, creating something bigger than ourselves, and being the embodiment of a rising Cincinnati. Through our own programs and initiatives, and the support of key partners, we aim to improve the lives of children through the game of soccer and will continue to do our part to create an inclusive community.

FC Cincinnati Foundation’s mission is accomplished primarily through five key programs: Club Ambassadorship through In-School and Out-of-School Programming, Mini Pitch Soccer Builds, West End Pride and Learning Is Cool. These programs help promote and encourage strong academic performance, and serve as catalysts to reinforce character values and improved health for children in the Greater Cincinnati region. The Foundation also serves as FC Cincinnati’s philanthropic arm, making donations and investments to Cincinnati-area organizations that have similar goals and ambitions for the area’s youth.

Donation Request

Donations are a way for FC Cincinnati to give back to local non-profit's as they are hosting fundraisers and events. These donations include, but are not limited to FCC signed merchandise items, FCC apparel items, and on special occasion, tickets to matches. Donations allow FC Cincinnati to show up across the city and support causes that are important to our fans, allowing us to connect with fans in a way that is meaningful to them. These items allow non-profits to use the donation for fundraising efforts and supporting their organization to raise money for a specific cause.

FC Cincinnati Foundation

FC Cincinnati is committed to leaving a legacy, creating something bigger than ourselves, and being the embodiment of a rising Cincinnati. Through our own programs and initiatives, and the support of key partners, we aim to improve the lives of children through the game of soccer and will continue to do our part to create an inclusive community.

FC Cincinnati Foundation’s mission is accomplished primarily through five key programs: Club Ambassadorship through In-School and Out-of-School Programming, Mini Pitch Soccer Builds, West End Pride and Learning Is Cool. These programs help promote and encourage strong academic performance, and serve as catalysts to reinforce character values and improved health for children in the Greater Cincinnati region. The Foundation also serves as FC Cincinnati’s philanthropic arm, making donations and investments to Cincinnati-area organizations that have similar goals and ambitions for the area’s youth.

West End Grants

FC Cincinnati Foundation is proud to support the West End with our Grants Program which supports community-building initiatives within the West End neighborhood. A minimum of $100,000 in grants will be invested in the West End on an annual basis through this grants program.

To qualify for a grant, the applicant’s initiative must support community-building initiatives within the West End neighborhood. Applicants should also be a 501(c)3 organization in good standing.

Organizations are encouraged to seek endorsement for their application from the West End Community Council. While this is not required, it is helpful for us to understand the priorities of neighborhood leadership as we make grant determinations.

The Santa Monica Bay Sailing Foundation (SMBSF) offers grants to support individuals and sailing programs in the Santa Monica Bay area. Established in 1990, SMBSF has raised over $1 million to promote sailing for participants of all ages. Grants can cover educational expenses, regatta fees, and safety equipment, fostering inclusivity and community engagement in sailing. Applicants must be affiliated with a local yacht club and demonstrate a genuine need for funding.

Del Rey Yacht Club (310) 823-4664 or visit the DRYC Junior Program website

California Yacht Club (310) 823-4567 or visit the CYC Junior Program website

Santa Monica Windjammers Yacht Club (31) 827-7692 or visit the SMWYC Junior program website

About

The Santa Monica Bay Sailing Foundation (SMBSF) began in 1990, as a 501(c)(3) corporation, committed to changing lives within the Santa Monica Bay area through the sport of sailing and other boating activities.

Over the past three decades, the SMBSF has partnered with several local charities and raised over $1,000,000 to help the general sailing public.

The Foundation is proud of its ability to develop and fund innovative programs promoting the sport of sailing for qualified participants of all ages and abilities, thereby making it one of California’s leading sailing community support groups. SMBSF funds summer scholarship programs as well as competitive sailing teams at DRYC, CYC, SMWYC, WYC and KHYC.

SMBSF Scholarship Grants

This foundation provides funds for young people who demonstrate need to participate in sailing classes and clinics throughout the year.