Best Recreation Grants for Nonprofits in Guam

Guam recreation and conservation agencies or partners seeking land acquisition for public outdoor recreation and compatible land use near military installations can access funding through the National Park Service. The Readiness and Recreation Initiative offers US $250,000 - US $3,000,000 for projects in REPI Partnership Opportunity Areas or Sentinel Landscapes that meet LWCF and national priority requirements.

Outdoor recreation nonprofits in Guam can apply for L.L. Bean’s charitable donations to support programs that get people outside and foster connection through nature-based activities. Eligible U.S.-based organizations focused on outdoor recreation or outdoor equity may benefit; product donation requests must be submitted at least eight weeks before the program or fundraiser.

Eligible state, commonwealth, and territorial agencies in Guam and other U.S. jurisdictions can apply for the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program, which awards US $300,000 - US $15,000,000 for acquiring, developing, or renovating parks and outdoor recreation areas in urban, underserved communities. Community organizations and local governments participate as subrecipients through these designated agencies.

Nonprofits planning large-scale outdoor recreation or park projects in Guam and other eligible U.S. jurisdictions can seek matching funds for acquiring or developing recreational facilities in underserved communities. The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection administers this Land and Water Conservation Fund Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership opportunity, offering US $300,000 - US $15,000,000 for up to 50% of project costs.

Conservation districts, state and territory conservation partners, Resource Conservation & Development Councils, and Tribal organizations in Guam can access funding through the National Association of Conservation Districts to expand conservation-focused technical assistance and outreach. Grants support staffing to deliver conservation education, land stewardship, and outdoor recreation-related services that improve environmental resilience, food security, and community engagement.

The State Recreational Boating Safety (RBS) Grant Program, administered by the US Department of Homeland Security's U.S. Coast Guard, aims to enhance safety and enjoyment on America's waterways. This federal program provides grants to designated state agencies to reduce boating accidents, injuries, and fatalities. Although not open to the public, it plays a critical role in ensuring safe recreational boating experiences by implementing effective safety measures, thereby promoting public welfare and environmental protection.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving veterans with recreation, education, arts, environmental, family, or health initiatives in Guam and other U.S. territories can seek funding to launch or expand projects. Impact100 Global Veterans provides up to US $100,000 for veteran-focused programs that fit one focus area and can expend funds within two years.

The Community Forest and Open Space Conservation Program, offered by the USDA Forest Service, aims to support Indian Tribes, local governments, and qualified non-profits in acquiring private forest lands to establish community forests. This competitive grant program focuses on protecting forestland from non-forest uses while enhancing public access and community benefits such as recreation and education. Applications are due by October 13, 2026, requiring coordination with State Foresters or Tribal officials.

Nonprofits, municipalities, and public institutions in Guam planning recreation-focused fundraisers can receive up to US $2,500 in in-kind merchandise or gift cards to support events. Bass Pro Shops & Cabelas Outdoor Fund backs organizations that conserve wildlife and habitat, connect new audiences to the outdoors, or support military and veterans near its retail locations.

Municipalities, public institutions, and qualified nonprofits in Guam can apply for the Outdoor Fund - Local Impact Grant for specific outdoor recreation or conservation projects; awards up to US $5,000. Bass Pro Shops & Cabelas Outdoor Fund supports efforts like youth fishing clinics, adaptive access, gear libraries, and trail maintenance near its retail locations.

The National Forest Foundation's Matching Awards Program connects communities to forests by funding stewardship activities that promote engagement with National Forests and nearby public lands. This program aims to create lasting impacts, ensuring that all communities can benefit from the rich resources of these natural areas. By supporting various projects, the program fosters a deeper relationship between people and the environment, ultimately enhancing conservation efforts and community well-being.

Guam recreation and outdoor nonprofits connecting historically excluded communities to nature can access funding through the REI Cooperative Action Fund, a U.S.-based grantmaker. Eligible 501(c)(3) public charities or fiscally sponsored projects must align with initiatives that connect people outside, create equitable outdoor spaces, or center health benefits of nature.

Individuals and small teams in Guam and across the U.S. who face barriers to climbing and identify with underrepresented groups can receive US $250 - US $2,000 to pursue climbing expeditions or community programs. Grants from American Alpine Club support all climbing disciplines and require U.S.-based objectives and citizen or green card holder status.

The Conservation Alliance Grants program is currently under evaluation, leading to a pause in the member-directed grant cycle as the organization aligns its funding with its strategic plan launching in 2025. This initiative aims to harness the collective efforts of businesses and outdoor communities to protect North America's wild places through impactful and efficient grant-making. Future funding will focus on projects that enhance habitat, support Indigenous initiatives, and address climate change.

The AAD Shade Structure Grant Program provides funding up to $8,000 for non-profit organizations and public schools to install shade structures, promoting sun safety for children and teenagers. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to sun safety, including a year-long awareness program, and submit a letter of recommendation from an AAD dermatologist. The program aims to enhance outdoor safety, supported by donations from members and organizations.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Guam presenting free outdoor music festivals can apply for Levitt Festival Grants, offering up to US $5,000 to support 2026 events. Focused on outdoor recreation and arts access, the Mortimer and Mimi Levitt Foundation helps activate underused outdoor spaces and strengthen community life through live music.

Nonprofits, researchers, and other experienced conservation-focused applicants in Guam and across the U.S. and Canada can seek SITKA Ecosystem Grants to support outdoor recreation, habitat restoration, and collaborative conservation projects. W.L. Gore & Associates offers US $3,000 - US $20,000 for initiatives that improve ecosystem health and expand hunting-related access, education, and stewardship.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with partnerships on public lands that offer nature-based recreation for veterans can apply for National Environmental Education Foundation’s Veterans and Nature Grant, awarding up to US $10,000. With a mission to make the environment more accessible, NEEF supports U.S. projects, including those in Guam, that enhance veteran health and well-being through outdoor experiences.

Individuals of any age interested in outdoor education programs can receive support for licensed outdoor experiences through the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, including participants from Guam. Focused on outdoor recreation and environmental education, this scholarship may benefit those pursuing programs like Outward Bound, Wilderness Inquiry, or National Outdoor Leadership School.

Municipal entities, JCCs, YMCAs, and other nonprofits with existing splash pads in Guam can apply for the Make a SPLASH! Inclusive Design Award, receiving US $50,000 - US $65,000 in in-kind safety surfacing. Grants from MNY Group help U.S. recreation organizations improve splash pad safety, accessibility, and inclusive outdoor play spaces.

Municipal entities and nonprofit recreation facilities with existing splash pads can receive US $50,000 - US $65,000 in in-kind safety surfacing for outdoor water play areas, including Guam, if they meet income and budget criteria. With a mission to enhance outdoor recreation safety, MNY Group provides Life Floor tiles and installation through its Make a SPLASH! Need-Based Award.

Nonprofit day and overnight camps in Guam and across the U.S. can apply for American Camp Association’s Character at Camp Planning Grants, with awards up to US $50,000 to design or strengthen character development programs. Funding supports a year of planning, training, and capacity building for recreation and outdoor youth camps.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, government entities, sportsmen’s groups, and educational institutions in Guam working on outdoor recreation and wildlife projects can seek grants to support habitat stewardship, land conservation and access, wildlife management, and hunting heritage education. The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation funds programs like outdoor skills events, mentored hunts, and conservation outreach that connect people with nature.

The Clif Family Foundation Open Call invites 501(c)(3) organizations to apply for grants supporting general operating costs or specific projects. With a focus on regenerative farming, food worker health, climate justice, and food access, the foundation aims to empower grassroots initiatives. Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000, with applications reviewed twice a year. Deadlines are March 1 and August 1, and announcements occur about four months post-deadline.

2026 Veterans and Nature Grant

Supporting the health, well-being, and community connection of America's veterans

The National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) is pleased to announce grant funding supported by the American Medical Association (AMA) to expand access to nature-based experiences that support the health, well-being, and community connection of America's veterans. AMA has partnered with NEEF to bring an evidence-based health perspective to this effort, underscoring the growing body of research linking time in nature to improved physical and mental health outcomes.

Background

A Pew Research Center survey found that roughly one in four veterans say the transition back to civilian life was at least somewhat difficult. This is especially true for those who return home with stress or trauma. The National Alliance on Mental Illness estimates 11-20% of veterans are believed to experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) each year.

Nature offers profound restorative benefits for veterans navigating the challenges of post-service life. Time spent outdoors — whether hiking, fishing, camping, or simply sitting among trees — has been shown by numerous studies to reduce symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression, conditions that affect veterans at disproportionately high rates.

Quieting hypervigilance, allowing space for reflection, fostering camaraderie, and reducing isolation are all mental and physical benefits that be found through outdoor recreation. Using America’s public lands to do so provides a powerful and accessible path forward.

Overview

Through the 2026 Veterans and Nature grant, NEEF aims to expand access to nature-based experiences that support veteran health, well-being, and community connection by

• Providing opportunities for outdoor activities on public land that improve the physical and mental health of veterans
• Increasing veterans’ understanding of the physical and mental health benefits of time in nature

The grant will provide up to $10,000 per grantee for projects on federal, state, local, or nonprofit public lands that address physical and mental health in veteran communities.

Examples of project types include outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, climbing, or fishing; wellness activities, such as forest bathing or meditation; environmental education, such as community science; adaptive programming; and conservation volunteering. Projects are not limited to those listed here.

The Wold Foundation Grant, established in 1985, aims to support charitable, scientific, literary, and educational projects primarily benefiting Wyoming citizens and youth. It prioritizes initiatives in education, human services, cultural activities, healthcare, and scientific endeavors that promote conservation and outdoor recreation. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) classified and operate in the U.S. The foundation does not fund individuals or projects that discriminate based on sex, age, or religion.

The Mazamas is committed to exploring and preserving mountain environments in the Pacific Northwest through research grants. These grants support nonprofit research that aligns with the Mazamas’ mission, encouraging proposals from graduate and undergraduate students. Successful applicants often conduct field studies that enhance understanding of the region's natural features. Notably, the Mazamas also welcome innovative research ideas that may fall outside traditional grant guidelines, promoting a diverse range of scientific inquiry.