Best Grants for Teachers Continuing Education in Illinois

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

Louis Vago Scholarship Fund

This fund was created by Louis N. Vago (1925-2015) to provide scholarships to students in the Fox River Valley Area.

These scholarships are reserved for graduates of Aurora Central Catholic, Aurora Christian, East Aurora, Marmion, Metea Valley, Rosary, Waubonsie Valley or West Aurora High School.

Students must attend Aurora University, DePaul University or Hillsdale College.

Mr. Vago received his law degree from DePaul University.

He was a certified public accountant and an agent for the Internal Revenue Service.

He then founded and was president of General Aluminum Corporation from 1960-1986.

Louis Vago was a director of the Community Foundation for twenty-two years.

He also maintained memberships in numerous professional and civic organizations including the Illinois Bar Association, Kane County Bar Association, Elks Lodge and the Knights of Columbus.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

Simons-Minkler Scholarship Endowment Fund

This endowment was created upon receipt of a bequest from Katharyn Simons.

Miss Simons (1885-1969) lived her early years in Yorkville. Upon graduation from Beloit College, she taught at Morton High School in Cicero for thirty-six years.

After her retirement, she returned to Yorkville. Her maternal grandfather was an early settler of Kendall County and developed the famous “Minkler Apple.”

Simons bequeathed a large portion of her estate to the Foundation in honor of her family.

The Simons-Minkler Fund provides income for scholarships to graduates of East Aurora, West Aurora or Yorkville High School.

Created in 1970, the fund was established as an endowment in 1989.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

Thorium Action Group/Kerr-McGee Chemical Corporation Scholarship Endowment Fund

This fund provides scholarships to graduating high school seniors who reside within West Chicago Community High School District 94 in the State of Illinois.

It is a living legacy that symbolizes the joint effort of the Thorium Action Group, the people of the City of West Chicago, Illinois, their elected representatives, and the Kerr-McGee Chemical Corporation to remove the radioactive thorium contamination from the community.

This fund was established on September 17, 1997 with a generous donation from the Kerr-McGee Chemical Corporation. Kerr-McGee made the donation in the name of the Thorium Action Group because of the group’s fight to clean up the city.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

Trembacki & Hultgren Families Scholarship Endowment Fund

This fund provides scholarships to students graduating from East Aurora or West Aurora High School who will be entering the field of teaching.

Raymond Trembacki (1925-2000) was a teacher in the West Aurora School System from 1952 to 1959.

He then moved to East Aurora High School to develop the photography curriculum. In 1983, he continued his teaching career at the College of DuPage.

Janice Trembacki (1927-1997) was an English teacher in the West Aurora School System. She taught at Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson Junior High Schools. She retired in 1990.

Mr. and Mrs. Trembacki were graduates of Illinois State University (BA) and Colorado State College (MA).

Dale and Rae Jean Hultgren also had long and distinguished careers as educators for the Aurora schools.

In 1953, Dale Hultgren joined his sister Janice Trembacki in the West Aurora School System. He taught at Freeman Elementary School and later he taught science at Thomas Jefferson Junior High School.

Mr. Hultgren is a graduate of Illinois State University (BS) and the University of Colorado (MS).

Rae Jean Hultgren (1935-2008) taught in the Business Education Department at West Aurora High School, where she later became the department chairperson.

She also taught at East Aurora High School in the Business Education Department until her retirement in 2000. Mrs. Hultgren is a graduate of the University of Iowa (BBA and MA).

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

CON Level of Care Support Services Grant Program

The purpose of this funding opportunity is to support the construction, renovation, rehabilitation, expansion, and improvement of facilities that serve youth and families. Through this investment, the Department seeks to strengthen service capacity, improve safety and accessibility, address facility deficiencies, and enhance the quality of environments in which services are delivered.

Funding may be used to support projects that improve the availability, condition, functionality, security, accessibility, or suitability of facilities used to provide residential, treatment, supportive, or other Department approved services. The Department intends to invest in projects that demonstrate a clear need, readiness for implementation, and the potential to improve outcomes for youth and families served.

Examples of allowable grant activities include:

• Demolition (in preparation for additional work)
• Site preparation and improvement
• New construction of buildings and structures
• Reconstruction or improvement of existing buildings or structure
• Specialized furnishings and equipment
• Replacement of currently utilized assets by a better asset
• Expansion of existing buildings or facilities
• Direct costs which significantly increases the service potential of a current building or structure
• Work that contains repairs, maintenance, remodeling, or rehabilitation

Funding Information

• Opportunity Funding - $30,000,000.00
• Award Ceiling - $10,000,000.00
• Award Floor - $250,000.00

The Illinois Small Business Development Centers, operated by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), provide essential support to small businesses and entrepreneurs in Illinois. This initiative focuses on delivering professional, individualized advising and technical assistance, helping businesses access capital, enhance operations, and foster innovation. By nurturing a conducive environment for growth and development, the program aims to strengthen Illinois’ economy and ensure it remains a top choice for business endeavors.

The Pharmacy Support Program, initiated by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), aims to enhance access to pharmacy services across Illinois. This initiative will provide grants to a statewide retail association representing pharmacies, particularly focusing on critical access care pharmacies and those serving underserved populations. The program emphasizes equitable economic opportunities and supports pharmacies facing challenges in areas with low population density and high poverty levels.

Historic Preservation - National Maritime Heritage Program for education and preservation projects

The Program provides funding for maritime heritage preservation and education projects designed to reach broad audiences and enhance public awareness and appreciation for the maritime heritage of the United States.

Project funds are disbursed from the Maritime Heritage Program directly to State Historic Preservation Offices (SHPOs), who make subgrants to applicants.

The Illinois Schoolyard Habitat Action Grant Program aims to foster student involvement in creating and maintaining wildlife habitats. Projects can include establishing pollinator gardens or enhancing schoolyard habitats with native plants. Eligible applicants include educators and youth leaders in Illinois, with funding up to $2,000 available on a reimbursement basis. The program promotes ecological education and sustainability, requiring a commitment to maintain the project for at least five years, enhancing both educational and environmental values.

Investing in Our Communities

Regions Bank and Regions Foundation are committed to helping individuals, families, and businesses achieve financial success.

We work alongside nonprofit organizations, local businesses, government and service agencies to address social and economic issues, assist in building inclusive economic prosperity and help more members of our communities benefit from the rewards of a growing economy.

We make strategic and disciplined community investments in programs that seek to achieve three target outcomes:

Economic and Community Development

• Affordable housing
• Job creation
• Small business development
• Homebuyer education and retention
• Neighborhood revitalization and stabilization

Education and Workforce Readiness

• Student competency and skill building
• College and career readiness
• Educational access and success
• Credential building and employment
• Educator training and resources

Financial Wellness

• Financial education to youth, adults, and vulnerable populations
• Financial planning tools and resources, including Regions Next Step®
• Integrated asset-building

The AW Environmental Grant Program, backed by American Water Works Company, Inc., aims to support community-driven projects focused on water conservation and the protection of vital water resources. Since 2012, the foundation has invested over $15 million in innovative initiatives that enhance access to clean water and promote responsible water usage in underserved communities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) charities and educational institutions committed to environmental stewardship.

About the Illinois 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.

Title V Senior Community Service Employment Program - Competitive

Description

The Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) is a program administered by the US Department of Labor (USDOL) and the Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) that serves unemployed low-income persons who are 55 years of age and older and who have poor employment prospects by training them in part-time community service assignments and by assisting them in developing skills and experience to facilitate their transition to unsubsidized employment.

Placing older individuals in community service positions strengthens the ability of the individuals to become self-sufficient, provides needed support to organizations that benefit from increased civic engagement, and strengthens the communities that are served by such organizations.

Grantees will administer SCSEP in assigned geographic areas within Illinois per the requirements of the IDoA and USDOL.

Community Foundation of the Quincy Area

My Community Foundation (also known as The Community Foundation Serving West Central Illinois & Northeast Missouri) is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving quality of life in the communities it serves by connecting compassionate donors with meaningful causes. The foundation works with individuals, families, businesses, and nonprofit partners to gather charitable contributions, grow those funds through professional investment strategies, and grant the earnings in ways that address local needs now and into the future. It builds and manages permanent endowments tailored to donors’ goals, ensuring their philanthropic visions—whether honoring a loved one, establishing a legacy, or supporting community needs—are realized. Serving a 12-county region across West Central Illinois and Northeast Missouri, the foundation acts as a steward of charitable assets, helping donors make a lasting impact through customized giving opportunities, community grants, and strategic support for nonprofit organizations.

Delford M. & Portia K. Richter Agriculture Scholarship

Delford M. & Portia K. Richter Agriculture Scholarship provides financial support to students pursuing education in agriculture-related fields. Selection is based on academic achievement and promise, demonstrated financial need, the likelihood that the recipient will return to Pike County or Calhoun County to engage in farming, the applicant’s ability to successfully complete their chosen program, and how well the educational program aligns with the applicant’s ongoing course of study. Awards are made annually in the spring.

The Big Ten Academic Alliance Smithsonian Fellowship offers unique research opportunities for graduate students from member universities. Eligible candidates can conduct research at the Smithsonian in diverse fields such as anthropology, ecology, and history of science. The fellowship provides a stipend of $45,000 per year, with additional research allowances, and supports both U.S. and international students. This initiative fosters collaboration among leading academic institutions to advance knowledge and innovation.

Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity

The mission of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is to create equitable economic opportunities across the State of Illinois. By attracting and supporting major job creators, investing in communities, strengthening Illinois’ world-class workforce, fostering innovation, and ushering in the new clean energy economy, DCEO works to fortify Illinois’ reputation as a global economic powerhouse while ensuring Illinois is the best state to live, work and do business.

Manufacturing Training Academies

Program Description

The Manufacturing Training Academies Grant Program will provide capital grants to establish advanced workforce training facilities at downstate Illinois community colleges (defined as community college districts located outside Cook and the collar counties). The workforce training to be subsequently provided will foster development in manufacturing operations aligned with priority industries identified in the Illinois Economic Growth Plan. Priority industries relevant to this opportunity include:

• Life Sciences;
• Quantum Computing, AI, and Microelectronics;
• Clean Energy Production and Manufacturing;
• Advanced Manufacturing; and
• Next Generation Agriculture, Ag Tech and Food Processing.

These capital grants may fund the construction of facilities and purchases of durable equipment needed to establish manufacturing training academies. Specialized manufacturing training academies will foster development of priority industries, greater opportunities in high-wage careers, increased specialization, and increased industry support and collaboration in manufacturing workforce training. 

The Berdach Trust Grant, established by Otto P. Berdach, aims to support organizations providing financial assistance to individuals in need, particularly when public welfare is insufficient. Operating primarily in Illinois and California, especially the Long Beach area, the trust focuses on health, human services, and public benefit programs. Grants are directed exclusively for direct financial aid, not for administrative costs, ensuring that assistance reaches those in genuine financial distress.

The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency is inviting proposals for watershed-based planning projects aimed at addressing nonpoint source pollution. This initiative seeks to improve water quality in Illinois by preventing, eliminating, and reducing impairments to surface and groundwater. Funded through federal funds under Section 319(h) of the Clean Water Act, eligible projects may include the development and updating of watershed plans, technical assistance, and educational outreach efforts.

The IL Specialty Crop Block Grant Program aims to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops in Illinois, which include fruits, vegetables, and nursery crops. Funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, this program supports projects that boost local produce availability and strengthen the specialty crop industry. With over 83,000 acres dedicated to these crops yielding nearly $500 million in sales, the Department encourages initiatives in food safety, research, and improving access, especially in underserved communities.

The MRC/SOT Early Career Toxicologist Award, presented by the Society of Toxicology, recognizes an outstanding Midwest toxicologist with up to 10 years of experience. This prestigious award honors candidates actively contributing to the field or recently retired, showcasing their unique research achievements and teaching proficiency. Winners receive an engraved plaque and an honorarium, celebrating their commitment to advancing toxicology and enhancing human, animal, and environmental health.

The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) provides vital technical and financial assistance to farmers and forest landowners in Illinois. It focuses on enhancing agricultural productivity while preserving natural resources. By facilitating improved water quality, soil health, and wildlife habitats, EQIP promotes sustainable practices in farming. Producers can receive support for various initiatives, ensuring that conservation efforts align with agricultural goals. This program is essential for mitigating environmental impacts and fostering sustainable agriculture in the region.

The IL Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) Program aids communities in recovering from natural disasters by providing both technical and financial assistance. It addresses threats to life and property from floods, fires, and windstorms without requiring a federal disaster declaration. Various recovery projects, led by eligible local sponsors, include debris removal, streambank protection, and establishing vegetative cover. The program is designed to be economically and environmentally sound, promoting sustainability in watershed management.

The IL Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) supports the conservation of agricultural lands and wetlands through financial and technical assistance. The program prioritizes applications from eligible partners, including Indian tribes and local governments, protecting farmland from non-agricultural use. By preserving agricultural land, ACEP enhances environmental quality, wildlife habitats, and historic preservation while ensuring the long-term viability of the nation's food supply.

The IL Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP): Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE) aims to assist private and tribal landowners in protecting and restoring wetlands previously degraded by agricultural practices. This program offers various easement options, including permanent and 30-year easements, while covering costs associated with easement recording. Additionally, NRCS prioritizes applications based on the potential to enhance habitat for wildlife, including migratory birds, thereby contributing to biodiversity and ecological resilience.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Kansas Association of Independent Crop Consultants Scholarship Fund

The Kansas Association of Independent Crop Consultants created this scholarship fund to award to a qualified individual majoring in an agricultural field.

The Impaired Driving Prevention Program in Illinois aims to enhance roadway safety by addressing alcohol and drug-related impaired driving. With a funding amount of $8,000,000, the program focuses on raising public awareness, implementing prevention strategies, and providing resources to law enforcement. It encourages community involvement and educational initiatives to reduce traffic fatalities and promote responsible behaviors. The program supports various eligible applicants, including local governments and nonprofits, to foster a collaborative approach to combating impaired driving.

CSX Charitable Investments provide essential in-kind donations to nonprofit organizations focused on supporting military members and community first responders. Through intermodal transportation services, CSX offers equipment and rail services to help reduce transportation costs for eligible organizations. The program also includes occasional donations of railroad materials and equipment based on availability. CSX prioritizes support for organizations operating within its service areas, promoting community betterment and development.