Best Grants for Nonprofit Human Services in Illinois

Unless noted otherwise in the scholarship description and criteria statement, applicants can attend accredited schools of their choice within the United States.

CFNJ scholarships awards vary. On average, awards range from $500 to $2,500. However, the award could be larger based on the number of qualified applicants and the parameters set by donors who have established the funds. 

James L. and Ruby L. Murray Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship will be awarded to a college-bound, graduating senior from one of the following high schools: Trenton High School, Ewing High School, Cherry Hill High School West, or East Orange High School. Applicants must be pursuing a bachelor’s degree in history, social science, or political science at any college/university of their choice within the United States. Students also must have achieved a cumulative 3.0 GPA or better.

Cumberland Community Foundation ("CCF") manages more than 60 scholarship endowment funds created by local individuals, families, civic organizations, and corporations who want to provide a path to higher education for future generations. 

Each year, Cumberland Community Foundation announces more than $1,000,000 in college scholarships to students from southeastern North Carolina.

Brian Edkins Memorial Scholarship

Graduating senior from Cape Fear High School; South View High School (Cumberland County) or Scotland High School (Scotland County, NC).

The Lozier Foundation

Formed in 1986, The Lozier Foundation is a family foundation funded by Allan and Dianne Lozier. The foundation’s focus is education, social services and issues involving women and children with an emphasis on the inner city and underrepresented populations.

Our Mission: The Lozier Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life for the underrepresented communities in the Omaha/Metro area.

Grants

Funding Priorities

• Education
• Women & Girls
• North Omaha Initiatives
• Human Services

Grantseekers wishing to apply to the Lozier Foundation should begin by reviewing the Mission, Values, Funding Priorities and Funding Eligibility Statements.

The Lozier Foundation grant applications include: Capital Application; Education Application; General Application; and Program Application.

Organizations may receive general operating, program, and capital grants. While The Lozier Foundation prefers to provide ongoing general operating support, organizations can receive a program and/or capital grant in the same calendar year.

Lozier Foundation Education Application

The Education Application follows the foundation guidelines provided here.

The Lozier Foundation

The Lozier Foundation is a private family foundation based in Omaha, Nebraska, funded by Allan and Dianne Lozier. The Foundation supports nonprofit organizations working to expand opportunity, strengthen communities, and improve quality of life for people and families who have historically had less access to resources.

The Foundation’s grantmaking is grounded in a long-term commitment to Omaha and the surrounding region. We are especially interested in work that helps level the playing field, supports people during important moments of need or transition, and gives individuals and families greater ability to make choices about their own lives and futures.

The Foundation’s support has historically focused on established nonprofit organizations working in areas such as education, human services, youth development, health, family stability, and community well-being. While those areas describe much of our grantmaking, they are not intended to serve as fixed categories or a comprehensive list.

The Foundation is selective in its grantmaking. We generally support organizations with a meaningful operating history, capable leadership, sound governance, financial discipline, and a demonstrated ability to serve the community effectively. The Foundation does not typically support early-stage organizations, small projects or organizations with limited reach, or requests that fall outside our geographic and charitable priorities.

The Foundation also considers whether a request reflects a clear understanding of the existing community landscape. We are generally skeptical of efforts that duplicate services already being provided effectively by other organizations, particularly when collaboration, coordination, or partnership would better serve the community. Organizations seeking support should be prepared to explain how their work fits within the broader field, who they collaborate with, and why the proposed work is needed.

Grants

Grantseekers wishing to apply to the Lozier Foundation should begin by reviewing the Mission, Values, Funding Priorities and Funding Eligibility Statements.

The Lozier Foundation grant applications include: Capital Application; Education Application; General Application; and Program Application.

Organizations may receive general operating, program, and capital grants. While The Lozier Foundation prefers to provide ongoing general operating support, organizations can receive a program and/or capital grant in the same calendar year.

Lozier Foundation General Application

Funding Priorities

• Education
• Women & Girls
• North Omaha Initiatives
• Human Services

The General Application follows the foundation guidelines provided here.

The Lozier Foundation

The Lozier Foundation is a private family foundation based in Omaha, Nebraska, funded by Allan and Dianne Lozier. The Foundation supports nonprofit organizations working to expand opportunity, strengthen communities, and improve quality of life for people and families who have historically had less access to resources.

The Foundation’s grantmaking is grounded in a long-term commitment to Omaha and the surrounding region. We are especially interested in work that helps level the playing field, supports people during important moments of need or transition, and gives individuals and families greater ability to make choices about their own lives and futures.

The Foundation’s support has historically focused on established nonprofit organizations working in areas such as education, human services, youth development, health, family stability, and community well-being. While those areas describe much of our grantmaking, they are not intended to serve as fixed categories or a comprehensive list.

The Foundation is selective in its grantmaking. We generally support organizations with a meaningful operating history, capable leadership, sound governance, financial discipline, and a demonstrated ability to serve the community effectively. The Foundation does not typically support early-stage organizations, small projects or organizations with limited reach, or requests that fall outside our geographic and charitable priorities.

The Foundation also considers whether a request reflects a clear understanding of the existing community landscape. We are generally skeptical of efforts that duplicate services already being provided effectively by other organizations, particularly when collaboration, coordination, or partnership would better serve the community. Organizations seeking support should be prepared to explain how their work fits within the broader field, who they collaborate with, and why the proposed work is needed.

Grants

Grantseekers wishing to apply to the Lozier Foundation should begin by reviewing the Mission, Values, Funding Priorities and Funding Eligibility Statements.

The Lozier Foundation grant applications include: Capital Application; Education Application; General Application; and Program Application.

Organizations may receive general operating, program, and capital grants. While The Lozier Foundation prefers to provide ongoing general operating support, organizations can receive a program and/or capital grant in the same calendar year.

Lozier Foundation Program Application

Funding Priorities

• Education
• Women & Girls
• North Omaha Initiatives
• Human Services

The Program Application follows the foundation guidelines provided here.

About the Bertin Family Foundation

Founders: Kim and Jennifer BertinAfter a successful career innovating orthopedic surgical techniques, devices, and implants, Kim and his wife Jennifer feel a deep sense of stewardship to dedicate their resources to helping others. They engage all three generations of the Bertin family in hands-on service and grantmaking decisions, fostering a shared commitment to giving back. Through the foundation’s work, the Bertin family seeks to strengthen communities, support meaningful causes, and inspire future generations to lead with compassion and purpose. 

NOW Grants

A limited number of grants are available for one time projects or programs that emerge outside of the standard review period. These grants are for $5000 or less.

Pillars of Giving

Nicor Gas focuses its charitable giving on five pillars. Grants are most likely to be awarded to organizations that fall into one of the five focus areas noted below and whose programs benefit those within Nicor Gas’ service area.

Family and Social Services

Strong communities depend on good citizens working together. We invest in nonprofit organizations with programs that support families, improve quality of life, foster resilience and enhance social welfare.

The Family and Social Services pillar provides support to social services programs. We focus on communities where stabilization needs are the greatest. Organizations funded under this pillar include social services agencies, non-core health services such as mental health, substance abuse, disability services, and organizations that target civic development. Nicor Gas supports a broad range of programs that promote community and social services, including but not limited to:

• Mental health and substance abuse prevention and treatment programs
• Domestic violence prevention and treatment programs
• Disability services programs
• Family support services programs
• Rehabilitation programs

Armstrong County Community Foundation (The Community Foundation Serving the Heart of Western Pennsylvania)

In 1997 Merchants National Bank, an Armstrong County community bank, marked its 100th anniversary. The centennial celebration included a unique expression of gratitude to the community in the form of $100,000 to be used as a seed fund to initiate a community foundation for Armstrong County. The bank challenged the community to keep the principal balance of the endowed funds intact and spend only a portion of the interest earnings to ensure a lasting legacy.

The Armstrong County Community Foundation, a public nonprofit corporation,

• Gives grants, scholarships, and organizational support to address the needs of our community.
• Builds a permanent endowment to help our donors create a legacy through this endowment.
• Promotes informed philanthropy to increase and sustain charitable resources for the region.
• Provides leadership and builds partnerships to identify and solve community issues.

Kay Detrick Owen Scholarship

The Kay Detrick Owen Scholarship Fund was established in 2007 by The ARC Manor Foundation to support the education of students who plan to major in, or are currently studying for, a degree in human services.

A human services professional is a generic term for people who hold professional and paraprofessional jobs in diverse settings such as group homes, halfway houses, community mental health centers, programs concerned with drugs and alcohol, domestic violence, aging, correctional programs, programs for people with intellectual disabilities, social workers, and probation/parole officials. Human services is a field of study that assists individuals and communities to function as effectively as possible in major domains of living. Its objective is to meet human needs through an applied knowledge base, focusing on prevention as well as remediation of problems, and maintaining a commitment to improving the overall quality of life of service populations.

Suggested (but not limited to) acceptable examples of college majors and human services positions are psychology, sociology, social work, adult education, individual and family guidance counseling, behavioral management, criminal justice, probation officer, rehabilitation, mental health counselor, marriage and family therapist, substance abuse counselor, grief counselor, case manager, child advocate, child life specialist, etc. 

Cook County Community Fund 

Mission

The Cook County Community Fund supports initiatives that strengthen community connections and respond to local needs across six key areas: arts, education, community development, the environment, human services, and youth.

Funding Priorities

• We prioritize projects that build collaboration, address the root causes of challenges, and bring people together across Cook County.
• Grants often support new or emerging ideas, especially those that can make a meaningful difference with modest funding.
• Applicants are encouraged to seek matching funds, and proposals that leverage additional support are given strong consideration.

‍Other Considersations

While the Fund does not typically support capital projects or ongoing program costs, we may offer short-term or multi-year funding to help launch promising new efforts—so long as there’s a plan for sustaining the work after our grant ends.

Award Range

• $1,000 to $5,000

Grant Cycle

• Spring

About

Macchia Family Foundation

Aims to assist those who cannot assist them selves, or who have attempted to better their own lives and/or the lives of their families but have come up just a little short.

• Assisting children and people in need
• Supporting social, educational and philanthropic programs that better peoples lives
• Providing a helping hand to those who need it

Our Mission

The Baughman Family Foundation aims to make an impact on our local communities by supporting organizations nominated by family members. The goal of the foundation is twofold: to make a meaningful impact on our selected charitable organizations and to encourage family members to become active in charitable giving.

Submission Guidelines

When submitting an application, please keep the following guidelines in mind:

The focus of the Baughman Family Foundation is on supporting local charities where the Foundation can make a direct, tangible impact on causes that matter to our family.

Boone County Community Foundation Grants

The Boone County Community Foundation invites charitable organizations in Boone County to apply for a community grant funded by the Melvin & Mildred Banks Grant Fund and the Wilbur & William Cummings Grant Fund.

Wilbur & William Cummings Grant Fund

Wilbur and William Cummings were lifelong residents of Boone County. Pursuant to their interests, a grant program was established that enhances the Boone County community. The majority of the proceeds are available for the Boone County Fair Association and the Boone County Historical Society. The balance is reserved for at-large community purposes.

To award grants for projects that enhance the quality of life in Boone County.

The Kelley Foundation

The Kelley Foundation was established by Robert and Judy Kelley and their daughter Marla. The Kelleys are native Oklahomans and longtime residents of Southern Oklahoma.

The foundation is primarily focused on humanitarian projects in Oklahoma, with an emphasis on Southern Oklahoma. Our mission is to develop and strengthen our community, state, and nation by providing essential resources to those in need.

The Kelley Foundation Grant

The Kelley Foundation is a private, charitable foundation, incorporated under the laws of the State of Oklahoma and operated exclusively for providing support through its gifts and grants to religious, charitable, scientific, and educational institutions which are qualified under section 501(c)(3) and which are not private foundations within the meaning of section 509(a) of the Internal Revenue Service Code.

Boone County Community Foundation, Illinois

The Boone County Community Foundation exists to improve the quality of life in Boone County for today, tomorrow and the future by building a culture of giving in our community and by connecting donors. We are a tax exempt, non-profit, philanthropic organization with the long-term goal of building permanent, named funds for the broad-based charitable benefit of the residents in Boone County and to strengthen our community through philanthropy. We offer the best tax advantages for charitable donations operating as a 501©(3) organization of the internal revenue code. 

We help raise the level of local giving and help keep charitable dollars in the local community. The Boone County Community Foundation will help to ensure that charitable endowment gifts given to help our community will remain effective and relevant over long periods of time.

Melvin & Mildred Banks Grant Fund

The Boone County Community Foundation invites charitable organizations in Boone County to apply for a community grant funded by the Melvin & Mildred Banks Grant Fund and the Wilbur & William Cummings Grant Fund.

The Banks farmed and ran numerous businesses in Boone County their entire lives. Melvin & Mildred were both active and supportive community members. They have graciously endowed an unrestricted fund for Boone County non-profit organizations. The purpose of this funding is to award grants for projects that enhance the quality of life in Boone County.

Melton Foundation

The Melton Foundation is an international 501(c)(3) non-profit organization registered in the USA, and a leading proponent of Global Citizenship education and practice worldwide. Established nearly thirty years ago with the credence that collaborations across boundaries can forge sustainable solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges, today, our programs reach millions of young leaders, having crystallized into a network of over 750 life-long Melton Fellows spread across 40+ countries. Our primary operations are in Chile, China, Germany, Ghana, India, and the United States of America, with legal subsidiaries in Bangalore, India; Jena, Germany; Temuco, Chile; and Accra, Ghana. 

Through our fellowship and collaborative programs we promote and enable global citizenship as a way for individuals and organizations to work together across boundaries of place and identity to solve challenges in an interconnected world.

Melton Foundation Action Grants

The Melton Foundation offers grants year-round to support Melton Fellows in developing skills, perspective and wider networks to further their capacity as global citizens and contribute towards building an equitable, sustainable, and peaceful world.

In almost 10 years of granting, more than 100 Fellows’ initiatives have been awarded with a Melton Foundation grant to

• Build awareness and/or further awareness raising around global issues and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),
• Develop individual and collective responsibility for sustained, collaborative action,
• Grow capacity to collaboratively drive and sustain social impact at the local and/or global level,
• Further the design, implementation and evaluation of collaborative actions that embody the spirit of global citizenship practice and further social impact, or
• Support coordinated social-impact efforts in a particular or across (emerging) Melton Foundation Hub regions to promote global citizenship practice (s) and the organization’s mission.

The Eichacker + Lofton Grant Fund, established by the Keokuk Area Community Foundation, aims to enhance the quality of life in the Tri-State Area, covering Hancock County, Illinois, Clark County, Missouri, and Lee County, Iowa. This fund supports nonprofit organizations focusing on arts, culture, education, health, and community betterment. Grants up to $5,000 are available to initiate projects that address local needs, promote collaboration, and foster leadership and self-sufficiency within the community.

St. Mary's Bank Charitable Foundation Community Support Grants aim to enhance community welfare by providing financial support to nonprofit organizations. With a commitment to 'people helping people' since 1908, the foundation focuses on areas like youth programming, homelessness, and civic support. In 2023 alone, they donated over $200,000 to 190 organizations, reflecting their dedication to improving lives in New Hampshire. They prioritize funding for nonprofits within their service areas, ensuring impactful contributions to local communities.

The Bertin Family Foundation Grants support 501(c)(3) public charities that align with the foundation's mission of community strengthening and compassion. Grant requests are accepted annually from July 1 to August 31, focusing on program or project support rather than general endowment. The foundation values measurable outcomes and responsible stewardship, and gives preference to organizations with Gold or Platinum status on Candid.

The Slomo and Cindy Silvian Foundation Grant supports a range of subjects including education, children's welfare, medical care, medical research, and Jewish philanthropic endeavors. Established in honor of Cindy Silvian, the foundation has awarded over $30 million since 2008. Applications are by invitation only, and organizations must meet specific eligibility criteria to be considered for funding. This year, the foundation allocated over $2.4 million to more than 110 organizations, highlighting its commitment to impactful philanthropy.

The Andrew Burgin Charitable Trust Grant supports organizations that are exempt under Section 501(c)(3) and focuses on charitable, educational, religious, and scientific purposes. With grant sizes ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 and an annual budget of approximately $55,000, the trust primarily serves Alabama organizations. Applications are accepted year-round, but must meet specific deadlines for review. This grant offers opportunities across diverse areas such as arts, education, health, and human services.

The James B and Lois R Archer Charitable Foundation offers Large Grants for requests exceeding $10,000. Focused on fostering positive change, the foundation supports initiatives in Arts and Culture, Civic Engagement, Education, Health, and Human Services. Eligibility includes 501(c)(3) organizations, while restrictions apply to consecutive grant cycles and non-qualifying purposes such as endowments and fundraising events. Organizations are encouraged to apply for various projects to enhance community well-being.

The James B and Lois R Archer Charitable Foundation offers Smaller Grants of $10,000 or less to support initiatives in Arts and Culture, Civic Engagement, Education, Health, and Human Services. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and comply with eligibility criteria, including a one-year waiting period for reapplications. The foundation aims to have a significant impact on communities, especially in West Texas, while avoiding funding for specific exclusions such as endowments and fundraising events.

The Harry Kramer Memorial Fund Grant supports U.S. charitable organizations that assist individuals and institutions in Israel, focusing on welfare, healthcare for the sick and aged, and education in South Florida. Founded by Harry A. Kramer, a successful entrepreneur and veteran, the fund reflects his deep commitment to charitable causes. Organizations must qualify under Section 501(c)(3) and meet specific eligibility criteria to apply for funding, ensuring that aid reaches those in need.

The Joan M. Wismer Foundation, established in 2001, honors the legacy of Joan Marilynn Wismer, who was dedicated to charitable work and community service. The foundation focuses on improving lives through education, youth development, safety, humanitarian services, and medical research. It primarily supports IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and churches, while emphasizing the importance of sustainable funding and effective financial management in its grant-making process.

The Clarence W. Winter Charitable Trust, established from Mr. Winter's Will, provides annual grants of $3,000 to $5,000 to support tax-exempt organizations focused on charitable, religious, scientific, literary, or educational purposes. While there are no geographic restrictions, the Trust prioritizes organizations in Bucks County, PA. With a commitment to community betterment, Mr. Winter's legacy continues to support impactful initiatives for years to come.

The Next for Autism Scholarship Program is a unique initiative designed for health and human services students. Offering a combination of tuition assistance and paid work experience, participants work as Direct Support Professionals (DSP) for neurodivergent adults. With starting pay at $16 per hour and a $5,000 annual scholarship, this program not only provides financial support but also helps students develop valuable skills while making a positive impact in their communities.

The Festus & Helen Stacy Foundation provides grants to non-profit organizations worldwide, especially those focusing on evangelism, leadership development, holistic ministries, and media outreach. Established in 1980, the foundation aims to support projects that address the needs of the marginalized and promote generous giving. Grants are typically awarded for specific initiatives in South Florida, nationally, and internationally, particularly in emerging nations. Organizations must be tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) to be eligible.