Best Henderson County Grants for Nonprofits in Illinois

About Us

We are one of more than 750 similar tax-exempt public charities throughout the United States that work to make their community a better place to live. We are a local organization staffed by residents of the community and led by a board of trustees who have an in-depth knowledge of the issues that shape our County.

This Community Foundation was created by and for the people of Washington County MD, and exists to improve the quality of life for all of our citizens, now and for generations to come, by building community endowments, addressing needs through grant making and providing leadership on key community issues.

About Our Scholarships

Our scholarships exist thanks to local families, friends, and organizations who have partnered with the Community Foundation to memorialize or honor someone, celebrate their alma mater, or promote a chosen career field. The creation of a scholarship fund can affect the donor as much as the recipient. 

The Community Foundation of Washington County, MD offers more than 100 scholarships for graduating high school students and non-traditional students in continuing education. 

The Thomas J. Bowers Aviation Scholarship Fund

A scholarship fund created in honor of Thomas J. Bowers to provide scholarships to deserving Washington County students who are active members of the Civil Air Patrol and express a desire to pursue a degree in an aviation-related field.

The Karim Thomas Ziyad Memorial Engineering Scholarship Fund supports students from Washington County or nearby areas pursuing a career in engineering, especially in Mechanical Engineering. Established in memory of Karim Thomas Ziyad, this scholarship aims to empower deserving students to achieve their educational goals. The fund is part of the Community Foundation of Washington County Maryland, which offers numerous scholarships to enhance educational opportunities for local students.

The Carver, We’ll Find a Way Scholarship Fund, established by the Carver Family, offers scholarships to local students passionate about helping others. This fund is part of the Community Foundation of Washington County, Maryland, which manages over 100 scholarships aimed at supporting both high school graduates and non-traditional students pursuing further education. The foundation seeks to enhance the quality of life in Washington County through educational support and community engagement.

The Art Richards Scholarship Fund of Children In Need, Inc. offers scholarships to graduating clients of Children In Need, empowering them to pursue secondary education in academics or trades. Established in 1998, this fund was inspired by Art Richards' vision to uplift children living in poverty in Washington County, MD. Through local partnerships, the fund supports educational opportunities and honors community values, ensuring every child has the resources needed to thrive.

The Artist’s Palette Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Washington County, MD, supports students pursuing careers in cosmetology, aesthetics, barbering, nail technology, and massage therapy. This fund is designed to assist deserving individuals from Maryland, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania in achieving their educational goals. Scholarships are made possible by local families and organizations dedicated to enhancing community welfare and honoring significant contributions to the community. Applications open annually from January to April.

The National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) is set to release a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) focused on the ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI) of genomics. This initiative aims to explore how genomics can enhance health and well-being while addressing its broader societal impacts. The NHGRI encourages applications from diverse academic disciplines to promote innovative and replicable research approaches that effectively analyze the consequences of genomic advancements.

The Samuel Hunter Agricultural Education Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Washington County, MD, aims to support students graduating from WCPS high schools, especially those from Smithsburg High School. This scholarship is designed for students pursuing post-secondary education in agricultural fields, with a preference for FFA/4-H participants. With its commitment to enhancing local education, this scholarship not only honors community contributions but also promotes vital career paths in agriculture.

The Saint James School Scholarship Fund provides essential financial assistance to deserving students in the greater Washington County area. Established by local families and organizations, this fund aims to honor individuals and promote education. With over 100 scholarships available through the Community Foundation of Washington County, MD, it supports both high school graduates and non-traditional students pursuing continuing education. This initiative strengthens the community and fosters educational opportunities for all.

The Ryan Myers Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Washington County, MD, supports graduating seniors from various educational backgrounds in Washington County. This scholarship honors Ryan Myers' legacy, encouraging students pursuing higher education, trade schools, or apprenticeships. Ideal candidates reflect Ryan's positive spirit and aspirations, aiming to make a meaningful impact in their communities while achieving their academic and career goals.

The Rotary Club of Hagerstown Sunrise Foundation Scholarship Fund provides financial assistance to graduating high school students and non-traditional learners pursuing a degree or certificate in various fields. This initiative, supported by the Community Foundation of Washington County, aims to honor local contributions and foster educational opportunities. Applicants must demonstrate commitment to community service and leadership. Scholarships open annually in January and close on April 1st, benefiting the community for generations.

The Robert and Jenilie Palla Education Fund offers scholarships to graduating WCPS seniors who have participated in Cross Country and/or Track & Field Teams. This initiative, supported by the Community Foundation of Washington County, Maryland, aims to honor local students and encourage their academic pursuits. With a commitment to enhancing the community's quality of life, the fund exemplifies the importance of education and athletics in shaping future leaders.

The Richard and Mary Myerly Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Washington County, MD, supports low-income students pursuing careers in photography or fine arts at accredited institutions. Established in memory of Richard and Mary Myerly, this scholarship invites applications from students in Washington County and surrounding areas, promoting educational opportunities and honoring community values. With over 100 scholarships available, this initiative aims to empower the next generation of artists and photographers.

The Remsberg-Trout Scholarship Fund supports local students pursuing STEM degrees. One scholarship assists a senior from Williamsport High School, while two additional scholarships are available for graduates from other Washington County public high schools. All applicants must be members of the National Honor Society. This initiative, part of the Community Foundation of Washington County, MD, aims to foster educational opportunities and enhance the community's future.

The Quinn Alec Hoover Legacy Scouting America Scholarship Fund supports graduating seniors from Scouting America in the Mason Dixon District, encompassing Washington County, MD, and parts of Pennsylvania. Established by the Community Foundation of Washington County, this scholarship honors the legacy of Quinn Alec Hoover, aiming to recognize and assist students who embody the values of scouting. Applications open annually in January, closing by April 1st, promoting community engagement and educational advancement.

The Paul Lawson Memorial Aviation Scholarship is dedicated to supporting deserving students aged 15-25 from Maryland and West Virginia who are pursuing aviation lessons. Established in memory of Paul Lawson, this scholarship aims to empower young individuals to achieve their dreams in aviation. Offered by the Community Foundation of Washington County MD, it reflects the commitment of local families and organizations to enhance educational opportunities in the community.

The Jon Christopher Gauss, Jr. Wrestling Scholarship Fund, established by his parents, supports high school wrestlers pursuing post-secondary education at accredited institutions. This initiative, part of the Community Foundation of Washington County MD, aims to honor Jon's legacy while empowering students to achieve their educational goals. The scholarship enhances community engagement and provides vital financial assistance to promising athletes, ensuring that their dedication to wrestling translates into academic success.

Kappa Alpha Psi Foundation Scholarships

The Foundation Scholarships are merit-based and awarded to qualified students with a consideration of financial need. All recipients shall be in pursuit of a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university and as described by the respective scholarship criteria. Most scholarships are for one year, non-renewable unless otherwise indicated in the award description. 

The NIDCD Research Fellowship for Audiologists provides clinical audiologists enrolled in Ph.D. programs with essential research training. This initiative encourages the integration of clinical and translational research, fostering strong research foundations vital for advancing audiology and hearing healthcare. Although applications are not currently being solicited, the program aims to prepare potential candidates for meaningful collaborations and impactful research projects in the biomedical, behavioral, or clinical sciences.

APA Mission Statement

The American Philosophical Association promotes the discipline and profession of philosophy, both within the academy and in the public arena. The APA supports the professional development of philosophers at all levels and works to foster greater understanding and appreciation of the value of philosophical inquiry.

APA: Nicholas Rescher Prize

The Prize winner will receive a $1,000 award upon delivering the prize lecture. If travel funding presents a financial hardship to the selected winner, and if funds in the Prize endowment are, in the APA’s sole discretion, sufficient to do so, up to $1,000 in travel funding may be provided.

The Nicholas Rescher Prize Lecture will be published in the Proceedings and Addresses of the American Philosophical Association or any other publication where the APA regularly publishes the other prize lectures. The Nicholas Rescher Prize winner will be recognized by a letter and certificate from the APA, the usual APA announcement of prizes, and appropriate recognition in an APA prize reception.

Nature of the Prize

Winners of the Prize will have made substantial, outstanding contributions to systematic metaphysics, broadly construed, during the course of their careers. The Prize winner must agree to present a lecture (to be named “The Nicholas Rescher Prize Lecture”) on a topic in systematic metaphysics, broadly construed; the lecture should be accessible to a broad philosophical audience. The lecture will be presented at an APA divisional meeting, normally a meeting within one year following the selection of the Prize winner. The lecture will be presented biennially, and will rotate among the divisional meetings on a regular schedule set by the APA.

Nominations

Any APA member may nominate any other APA member for the Nicholas Rescher Prize; self-nominations are not permitted. Nominations must include a brief statement of support from the nominator.

Only members may submit nominations; please sign in to access the nomination form.

To submit a nomination, fill out the nomination form.

Selection Process

The selection committee may provide additional nominees for the Prize during the selection process. Members of the selection committee are appointed by a process determined by the APA, in its sole discretion, consistent with other prizes the association awards.

Award

• Frequency: Every other year in odd years
• Next Award: 2029
• Next Deadline: April 20th, 2028

The BRAIN Initiative Connectivity across Scales (BRAIN CONNECTS) invites innovative research proposals aimed at advancing technologies for understanding brain connectivity. This funding opportunity supports specialized projects focused on creating comprehensive atlases of brain wiring, emphasizing human and non-human species. Successful applications will contribute to a network aimed at enhancing the analysis and interpretation of brain circuits, ultimately leading to better strategies for treating brain disorders. Proposals must demonstrate novel approaches to data collection and integration.

The FY26 Reconstructive Transplant Research Program Concept Award encourages innovative research addressing critical issues in reconstructive transplantation. It supports groundbreaking concepts and untested theories, emphasizing creativity and relevance to specific focus areas. Notably, preliminary data presentation is prohibited, yet applications must demonstrate potential for interpretable results. Early-career investigators are particularly encouraged to apply, fostering new talent in this vital research field.

The Polly W. Roesch Vocal Music Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln, supports graduating seniors from Sangamon County pursuing degrees in vocal music and performing arts. This scholarship reflects the foundation's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities in the region. Eligible candidates include high school seniors and college students who are direct descendants of U.S. Service Members residing in specific Illinois counties. This initiative aims to foster talent in the arts and provide financial assistance to deserving students.

The Mary Lou and Dwight Pitman Scholarship supports area public high school students in Sangamon County, excluding Springfield and Chatham districts, who have siblings planning to attend college. Established through the Sangamon County Foundation in 1924, this scholarship honors the legacy of community leaders and aims to empower the next generation by aiding students' educational pursuits. Eligible applicants include graduating high school seniors and current college students who are direct descendants of U.S. Service Members.

Every Kindness is a Gift

Dollar Tree Gift Card Program 2026

Every Kindness is a Gift is a gift card grant program made possible through the generosity of Dollar Tree and managed by the team here at Gift Card Bank. We are a nonprofit organization that specializes in the distribution of gift cards and our mission is to improve well-being and build financial stability by supporting people through their time of need.

Through Every Kindness is a Gift, nonprofit organizations and Title I schools located in the 48 contiguous states may apply to receive a grant of Dollar Tree gift cards.

Gift cards received through these grants are meant to be distributed directly to individuals and families in need. A primary goal of the program is to give gift card recipients the dignity of choice by empowering them to shop for what they need themselves. By putting gift cards directly in the hands of our neighbors in need, we are able to increase access to essentials like food, school supplies, paper products, cleaning products, and hygiene items.

In 2026, there will be two rounds of grant distributions. In each round, we will award a number of grants between $2,500 and $10,000.

Round One is a summer distribution. Gift cards awarded in Round One will arrive in late June, while kids are on break and back-to-school is around the corner. Round Two is a holiday distribution. Gift cards awarded in Round Two will arrive in early November, as the end-of-year holidays approach.

We know that these are times of year when budgets are tight. Through these gift card grants, we hope to connect individuals and families directly to the essential resources they need during difficult months.

llinois Department on Aging

The MISSION of the Illinois Department on Aging is to serve and advocate for older Illinoisans and their caregivers by administering quality and culturally appropriate programs that promote partnerships and encourage independence, dignity, and quality of life.

Rural Support

The Connecting Rural Older Illinoisans Grant opportunity directs funds to organizations to address rural area specific service issues, including transportation, technology, volunteer force development, and workforce development, that create barriers to older adults meeting their full potential.

The Rural Support Older Illinoisans Grant funds are to be used for one of the following activities:

• Develop and fund a stop-gap transportation program that will mitigate barriers to accessing programs and services leading to quality health outcomes and a reduction in social isolation and loneliness.
• Increase access to broadband and internet for older adults to partner with technology and virtual programs provided through Title III.
• Increase community connectivity through increasing the number of volunteers in the aging network. Activities can include outreach, recruitment, volunteer training, and/or volunteer recognition activities.
• Improve workforce recruitment and retention within the aging network. Activities can include increasing financial compensation (salary, bonuses), increasing training opportunities, and facilitating employee recognition.

The exact nature of the activities and the staff time required for the activities will vary based on identified community needs and priorities. AAAs may conduct the activities and opportunities through direct provision, partnership and/or contract with another organization, or utilization of a combination of the above.

The Mark Mayden Scholarship, established in 2006 by the Community Foundation of Dickinson County, honors the legacy of Mark Mayden, a devoted supporter of agribusiness. This $700 scholarship aims to assist hardworking students from Dickinson County in pursuing technical or vocational education, fostering opportunities for future generations. By rewarding initiative and talent, the scholarship reflects Mark's belief in the transformative power of education and hard work, ensuring that deserving students have the support they need to succeed.

The Loren Engel Memorial FFA Scholarship, established by Margaret Engle in 2005, honors Loren Engel’s dedication to agriculture and leadership. This $300 scholarship is available for graduating high school students from Dickinson County who have served as FFA chapter officers, demonstrating commitment to agricultural education. The Community Foundation of Dickinson County aims to support local students pursuing technical or vocational education, ensuring future generations can thrive in their community.