Best Grays Harbor County Grants for Nonprofits in Washington

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

About Us

Established in 1994, Grays Harbor Community Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that is known in our community for giving grants to other nonprofits in Grays Harbor County and for scholarships for Grays Harbor youth, but that is not our business.

Our real business is helping people, families, groups, and businesses be philanthropic or charitable. We provide the administrative and investment management services that make it easy for donors to be involved at whatever level they wish, and to accomplish their charitable goals with their tax deductible donations that improve the quality of life in Grays Harbor.

About Community Grants

The Grays Harbor Community Foundation addresses community needs by supporting our non profit community organizations throughout Grays Harbor county. The Foundation recognizes that the needs of our community are many, so we support organizations in arts and culture, education, health, and human services. Grant applications from all non profit organizations that meet our priorities and that serve local residents are welcomed and encouraged. We give high priority to investments that create positive, substantive change and attempt to resolve problems at their source.

Grays Harbor Community Foundation: Early Learning Grants

The Grays Harbor Community Foundation is dedicated to enhancing early learning opportunities in Grays Harbor County.

The Early Learning Grants program will be open throughout the year for organizations to apply at any time. The typical range of award is $5,000 to $10,000. However, any requests outside of that range can be discussed with our office prior to submittal.

GHCF looks for proposals that show:

• The strength of the applicant organization
• Show the ability to leverage other funding
• Address a community need
• Fit well within the GHCF’s giving priorities
• Have a positive impact on persons and/or the community
• Demonstrate the capacity to provide the necessary services using good administrative and financial management

Capital Projects

• Bids must be submitted at time of application
• Site visits are required
• Submit photos of proposed project

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

The Nonprofit Volunteer Fund, established by the Grays Harbor Community Foundation, supports local nonprofits in recruiting, retaining, and recognizing volunteers. Grants ranging from $50 to $500 can be applied for year-round to enhance volunteer engagement through various initiatives. The Foundation prioritizes funding that fosters positive, sustainable change, encouraging applications that address community needs in arts, education, health, and human services. This initiative aims to strengthen volunteerism and community ties in Grays Harbor County.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

The Hansen Family Foundation Grant seeks to empower organizations that uphold the American values of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Focused on diverse causes like children, education, animals, environmental conservation, humanitarian efforts, and arts, the foundation is committed to supporting initiatives that create positive change. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits, while political campaigns and organizations with high budgets or overheads are ineligible. This grant fosters impactful contributions to society.

The Forest Foundation offers the Capital Projects Grant to enhance the quality of life in Southwest Washington, particularly in Tacoma and Pierce County. This grant is available to tax-exempt organizations focused on community development, environmental stewardship, and cultural initiatives. Organizations must demonstrate fiscal accountability and innovative solutions. While the foundation prioritizes local projects, it also supports initiatives that empower families towards self-sufficiency. Notably, it does not fund new facility construction or lobbying efforts.

The Grays Harbor Community Foundation's Community Building Grants Program aims to enhance the quality of life throughout Grays Harbor County by supporting various nonprofit organizations. Emphasizing community needs, the program prioritizes initiatives in education, health, and arts, focusing on collaborative efforts that address local challenges. Nonprofits are encouraged to apply for funding to drive meaningful change and foster engagement, with two grant cycles each year, ensuring a responsive approach to community development.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

The Creative Youth Development (CYD) initiative by Allen Family Philanthropies aims to enhance access to quality arts programs for Washington youth aged 13 to 26. With $5 million available, the RFP supports nonprofit organizations focusing on artistic skill development, wellbeing through creative expression, and civic engagement. Prioritizing programs led by professional teaching artists, funding is available for projects that serve underserved communities, particularly those outside King County, to foster cultural vibrancy and community connections.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

The Alex and Suzanne Rosenkrantz Scholarship Fund, established by Grays Harbor Community Foundation, aims to empower youth who are blind, deaf, or deaf-blind by providing financial support for higher education and vocational training. Applicants must be residents of Grays Harbor County or graduates from its high schools and demonstrate strong character and work ethic. This scholarship facilitates access to adaptive technology and resources, helping recipients achieve their full potential in educational pursuits.

The American Veterans Home Association Scholarship, administered by the Grays Harbor Community Foundation, aims to support Grays Harbor County residents or graduates pursuing further education. Established to assist children and grandchildren of Westport Shipyard employees, this scholarship upholds high standards, emphasizing character, work ethic, and community involvement. Eligible applicants must submit a complete application and maintain annual renewal requests to secure funding for up to four years. This initiative fosters educational opportunities and supports the community's youth.

The Dr. Donald and Edna Wheaton Family Memorial Scholarship, established by the estate of Dr. Donald Wheaton in 1981, supports Grays Harbor County youth pursuing studies in the healing arts. This scholarship awards $1,000 for one year to deserving applicants who meet residency and educational requirements. The Grays Harbor Community Foundation administers this scholarship, helping enhance the quality of life in the region through education and charitable giving.

Dr. George H. Hitchings Memorial Scholarship

Born in Hoquiam in 1905, George H. Hitchings grew up in a family of shipbuilders. Hitchings’ father, George, Sr., worked at and eventually managed the Hoquiam shipyard that his father-in-law, Peter Matthews, established in 1897. 

From the late 1960s until his death in 1998, Dr. Hitchings became increasingly involved with philanthropy. He served as President of the Burroughs Wellcome Fund, a nonprofit foundation which supports biomedical research, and he led several charities in the Research Triangle Park area of North Carolina, where Burroughs Wellcome had relocated in 1968. In 1983, Dr. Hitchings founded the Greater Triangle Community Foundation, which serves the Triangle area.

While preference will be given to applicants interested in studying science or medicine, the George H. Hitchings Memorial Scholarship is open to all applicants who satisfy the general eligibility requirements of the Scholarship Program.

The Grays Harbor Community Foundation Scholarships provide essential financial support for students in Grays Harbor County. Established in 1994, the foundation aims to assist youth in pursuing their educational goals through charitable donations. Scholarships are open to applicants who meet specific eligibility criteria, including residency requirements and the submission of a complete application. The foundation promotes philanthropic efforts and aims to enhance the quality of life in the community through these scholarships.

Grays Harbor Community Foundation

Established in 1994, Grays Harbor Community Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that is known in our community for giving grants to other nonprofits in Grays Harbor County and for scholarships for Grays Harbor youth, but that is not our business.

Our real business is helping people, families, groups, and businesses be philanthropic or charitable. We provide the administrative and investment management services that make it easy for donors to be involved at whatever level they wish, and to accomplish their charitable goals with their tax deductible donations that improve the quality of life in Grays Harbor.

Scholarships

The Grays Harbor Community Foundation awards scholarships to local students for education after high school. The emphasis is on undergraduate studies at any two or four year college or university and vocational/technical programs leading to a license or certification.

Students submit only one application. When selected, the recipient is matched to the criteria of an individual scholarship by the scholarship review committee.

L. George Pauze Scholarship

The L. George Pauze Scholarship is new to the Community Foundation, but has been in existence since the 1970s. In January of 1970, Pauze announced the L. George Pauze Scholarship for a graduate of Hoquiam High School he had established with the help of his friends and attorneys, Omar Parker and George G. Wandel. Mr. Pauze came from Montreal to Grays Harbor in 1907. After years of hard work and ingenuity, he was able to maneuver himself into the ownership of a thriving lumber mill. George said: “You know, I didn’t have a chance to go to college, and I always missed it…I might have done even better if I’d had the opportunity to go. Actually, education is much more important now than in my day.” The law firm of Parker, Johnson, Parker (now Parker, Winkelman) has administered the Trust established that day, awarding at least one scholarship each year. The Gray Harbor Community Foundation is proud to now administer the scholarship to continue this tradition in perpetuity, and honor this “true gentleman.”

The Lou Messmer Scholarship Fund, established by the Grays Harbor Community Foundation, honors the legacy of Lou Messmer, a dedicated educator and naturalist. This scholarship supports students at Grays Harbor College or the University of Washington pursuing life sciences and environmental stewardship. Eligible applicants must be Grays Harbor County residents or graduates of local high schools, demonstrating outstanding character and a commitment to community service. This initiative reflects Lou's passion for nature and education, fostering future generations' connection to the environment.

The Lydian Bush Memorial Scholarship, established in 2001 by a former student, honors Miss Lydian Bush, a respected Latin teacher at Weatherwax High School. The scholarship is open to Grays Harbor County residents or graduates, promoting educational opportunities for local youth. Applicants must demonstrate strong character and work ethic, submitting a complete application for consideration. This initiative reflects the Grays Harbor Community Foundation's commitment to philanthropy and enhancing community quality of life.

The Officer Donald M. Burke Memorial Scholarship, established in 1994 by the Grays Harbor Community Foundation, honors the legacy of Officer Donald Martin Burke, a dedicated law enforcement officer who tragically lost his life in the line of duty. This scholarship supports the educational pursuits of children and relatives of local law enforcement officers, promoting their undergraduate and graduate studies. By investing in the future of these individuals, the foundation continues to foster community service and the values exemplified by Officer Burke.

About Us

Established in 1994, Grays Harbor Community Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that is known in our community for giving grants to other nonprofits in Grays Harbor County and for scholarships for Grays Harbor youth, but that is not our business.

Our real business is helping people, families, groups, and businesses be philanthropic or charitable. We provide the administrative and investment management services that make it easy for donors to be involved at whatever level they wish, and to accomplish their charitable goals with their tax deductible donations that improve the quality of life in Grays Harbor.

Westport Shipyard National Scholarship

The Westport Shipyard National Scholarship was established in 2007 with the first award presented in May of 2008. This scholarship was established with the hope of assisting Westport Shipyard employees with a child or grandchild graduating from high school with their first year of continued education whether it is in a trade field or a scholastic field.

The shipyard has production facilities in Grays Harbor County, Port Angeles and brokerage offices in Seattle and Fort Lauderdale, Florida. All Westport Shipyard employees with qualified children or grandchildren may have that child submit an application for the scholarship.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

Community Foundation for Southwest Washington

The Community Foundation for Southwest Washington is a public charitable organization dedicated to strengthening communities across Southwest Washington by connecting people, resources, and philanthropic goals. The Foundation works to inspire giving, steward charitable funds, and invest in programs and initiatives that address local needs and opportunities. Through donor-advised funds, scholarships, grants, and community partnerships, the Foundation supports education, economic opportunity, health, and quality of life throughout the region. Guided by values of integrity, collaboration, equity, and long-term impact, the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington serves as a trusted partner for donors and nonprofits committed to building resilient and thriving communities.

AIASWW Education Scholarship Fund

The Plan to Be an Architect? Scholarship is a joint program of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) National and the AIA Southwest Washington Chapter, designed to support students who plan to pursue architecture as a career. The scholarship assists students who have been accepted to a university with an accredited architectural degree program and demonstrates strong potential through academic and non-academic achievements, along with a personal narrative explaining their interest in architecture. Scholarship recipients are publicly recognized through local media and school announcements.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

The Grays Harbor Community Foundation, established in 1994, is dedicated to enhancing the community through philanthropic efforts. They provide after school grants primarily for elementary programs in Grays Harbor County, aiming to support local schools and improve educational opportunities for youth. By offering funding and administrative services, the foundation facilitates charitable donations that positively impact the quality of life in the region, fostering a culture of giving and community support.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.