Best Foundation Grants for Nonprofits in Indiana

The Great Lakes Bay Pride Scholarship, offered by the Saginaw Community Foundation, supports Michigan residents dedicated to promoting respect and acceptance across diverse backgrounds. This scholarship is open to high school seniors and college students pursuing undergraduate or Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, with awards ranging from $500 to $4,000. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and demonstrate commitment through volunteer work in the LGBTQ+ community.

The SHAPE America Hall of Fame Award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to health and physical education, ensuring these fields remain central to educational programs. This prestigious award honors dedicated professionals, including educators and leaders, who have demonstrated exemplary commitment and leadership in promoting physical activity, health education, and related disciplines. Through their efforts, they enhance the quality of education and the well-being of students across the nation.

The Emergency Assistance Funds, provided by the Entertainment Community Fund, offer vital support to performing arts and entertainment professionals facing unforeseen financial hardships. This program aids with essential living expenses, including healthcare and housing, to prevent eviction or service shut-offs. Eligible applicants must document their earnings and demonstrate a genuine need for assistance. Established in 1882, the Fund understands the unique challenges faced by those in the arts industry, ensuring they receive the help necessary to maintain stability.

The John E. Mayfield ABLE Scholarship Fund supports graduating seniors who are participants in the ABLE program, enabling children with disabilities to excel in post-secondary education. Established by John Mayfield, this scholarship encourages individuals to pursue their educational dreams, fostering independence and productivity within the community. The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, with over 30 years of philanthropic experience, administers the fund to ensure resources are directed where they can make the greatest impact.

The Westminster Presbyterian Church Scholarship aims to address contemporary community needs by providing financial support for education and job training. This initiative, led by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, emphasizes a holistic approach to community welfare, including arts, infrastructure, and wellness. It is designed for individuals who are currently employed full-time and seeking further education or job training opportunities.

Mission & Vision

Rochester Area Community Foundation, in partnership with generous philanthropists and community partners, works to improve the quality of life for people who live and work in the eight-county region through its leadership and strategic grantmaking.

Our Mission:

We are cultivating a thriving Greater Rochester region — powered by philanthropy, grounded in community, and sustained across generations.

Our Vision:

We envision a Greater Rochester region transformed by enduring philanthropy, where every person, neighborhood, and future generation can thrive.

John W. Burandt Scholarship

Purpose of Scholarship

To provide support for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with post-secondary education for dependents of firefighters residing in the city of Rochester, NY.

Number and Size of Awards

One award of $2,000; paid in the Fall and and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters.

Donor Information

This scholarship was established by Mrs. Lorene (Rene) Burandt in honor of her husband, John W. Burandt, a dedicated firefighter who served the Rochester community for 30 years.

The Edward J. Bouwer/AEESP Outstanding Doctoral Dissertation Award recognizes outstanding research by emerging scholars in environmental engineering and science. This prestigious award, honoring Prof. Edward J. Bouwer, includes a plaque and a $1,500 cash prize for the student, along with a $500 prize for the faculty advisor. Additionally, a travel allowance of $750 is available for both the student and the faculty advisor to attend the Awards Ceremony, encouraging participation and celebration of academic excellence.

The Wilma Jean Fynewever Scholarship, established by Mary Keeton in memory of her mother, supports graduating seniors and non-traditional students from the Tri-Cities, Newaygo, or Muskegon County pursuing nursing careers. This scholarship prioritizes financial need and aims to encourage students to achieve their professional goals in healthcare. The application process is straightforward, allowing candidates to apply for multiple scholarships at once, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of their qualifications and needs.

The Excellence in Environmental Engineering and Science Education (E4) Award recognizes outstanding contributions by university faculty in environmental engineering education. Administered by AAEES and AEESP, this annual award includes a $1,000 monetary prize and $500 for travel to the E3 ceremony. Nominees should demonstrate significant impacts in curriculum development, student mentorship, and educational outcomes. Past nominations can be reconsidered for three years, encouraging ongoing recognition of excellence in environmental engineering education.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

Robert and Judy Dreiling Scholarship

This scholarship offered to northern Nevada residents who are high school graduates or who have earned a high school equivalency certificate and adults seeking education to attain better employment.

The ideal candidates will be enrolled in an Associate's Degree track or certificate program at the school of their choice; the degree track or certificate program should result in a good lead to a good job. 

The scholarship will pay up to $5,000 for an Associate’s Degree or certificate program at private trade schools or community colleges for one or more candidates. You will be asked to write brief essays discussing: your life, your plans for the future, why you chose your certificate program, and how your education will impact your life and your family.

The Holland Scholarship, established in honor of Merle Holland Leis Frenzel, aims to support aspiring music students from Saginaw County. Funded by her friends and former students, this scholarship encourages recipients to pursue their musical dreams while honoring the support of her parents, Norton and Virginia Holland. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, be seniors at Saginaw County public high schools, and be involved in music programs. Awards typically range from $500 to $4,000.

Who We Are

We weave the work of communities, connecting and uplifting passionate people, critical resources and transformational ideas. Working side by side with every corner and sector of our region, we have identified social and economic justice as the most critical elements to a thriving community. We serve to advance efforts in these areas by fostering impactful giving, trusted partnerships and authentic engagement for a more equitable southwest Washington.

John and Maradee Potter Scholarship

Maradee Potter established this scholarship to honor her husband, John who died in 2021. John was retired from his career as a proofreader legal editor. John and Maradee were married for 36 years. Maradee is honoring her husband and her work to provide scholarships for students who have graduated from high schools located in Clark County, Washington and have been a recipient of Special Education services with a documented disability. Maradee worked in the Vancouver Public Schools as a Special Education Teacher during her career and continues to be an advocate for people with disabilities by serving on the Clark County Community Services Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board and Homes for Community Living Board. It is important to the donor that people with disabilities have equitable access to education and the support necessary to pursue post-secondary education and career training.

Award Information

The number and amount of scholarships will be determined by the scholarship committee. The scholarship may be renewable. Renewal applicants must reapply each year.

The Chairman Tommy Taylor Memorial Scholarship

The Chairman Tommy Taylor Memorial Scholarship was opened by the Texas Alliance of Energy Producers in 2014 in memory of Tom Taylor, a former chairman of the alliance. He was a prominent figure in the oil & gas industry and an esteemed leader. The one-time $2,500 scholarship is for graduating seniors and currently enrolled college students who have graduated from a Texas high school. The student's field of study must be energy or oil and gas industry-related, including petroleum, geology, and engineering. The award can be used at any college or university.

The NTSS Toshio Narahashi Neurotoxicology SS Trainee Conference Endowment Award offers a stipend of at least $250 to support deserving trainees in Neurotoxicology attending the SOT Annual Meeting. Selection is based on scientific merit and mentor support. This initiative, funded by the Toshio Narahashi Neurotoxicology Fellowship Award Fund, aims to enhance the professional development of trainees in toxicology.

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 Hayden Family Scholarship, established by Ms. Jerry Hayden in memory of her father, supports students pursuing an associate's or bachelor's degree, or workforce training in Alabama. It is open to part-time and full-time students at accredited U.S. institutions and can be renewed annually for up to four years, contingent on maintaining eligibility. Funds can be utilized for tuition, housing, and educational supplies, emphasizing the importance of exploring additional financial resources.

The Perry L. McCarty AEESP Founders' Award, presented by the AEESP Foundation, honors outstanding contributions to environmental engineering education and research. It recognizes a professor's excellence in these fields, offering a plaque, a $1500 cash prize, and a $750 travel allotment for the awards ceremony. Nominations are accepted annually, with past submissions considered for three years. Careful adherence to nomination guidelines is essential for eligibility.

About

Mission, Vision & Values

To enhance our community through philanthropy.

We aspire to co-create diverse, meaningful and innovative charitable giving that yields an exponential positive impact within local communities and beyond.

Coopey Boys’ Memorial Fund

About the fund

The Coopey Boys, Raymond Peter and Lauritz Martin, were born with hemophilia, a genetic disorder that impairs the body’s ability to make blood clots. Sadly, they both died at an early age. The Coopey Boys’ Memorial Fund benefits Corvallis students who suffer from a physical handicap or serious chronic health problem.

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Irene Miller Memorial Nursing Scholarship Fund

This scholarship fund was created in memory of Mrs. Irene Miller of Caroline County. Mrs. Miller began her career in public health nursing in 1940 and joined the Fredericksburg Department of Health in 1948. In 1954 she became nursing supervisor for the planning district and in 1968 she went on to serve as a Virginia Regional Supervisor covering 14 counties and 4 city service areas.

By establishing the Irene A. Miller Memorial Nursing Scholarship Fund in her will, Mrs. Miller wished to support the further education of a Caroline County student or students who wish to pursue a career in nursing. 

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Jeremy Daniel Hawley Skilled Trades and Technical Education Fund

Humility and hard work -- this scholarship was established in memory of Jeremy Daniel Hawley, who personified these two ideas. A 2001 graduate of Fredericksburg Christian High School and resident of King George county, Jeremy was admired by friends and family, fellow students and teachers for his character and integrity, his community service and his strong commitment to Christian values.

Jeremy was not known for his academic success, but rather for his strong internal compass and his drive to be successful on his own terms. He completed a community college certificate program in heavy equipment operation and began working for a builder while taking business classes at night. In less than a year he had progressed to crew supervisor in his job, but in 2003 an automobile accident took his life before he could realize his dream of running his own excavation business.

This scholarship is intended to promote hard work, skilled trades and personal character in the name of Jeremy Hawley. 

Mission & Vision

Rochester Area Community Foundation, in partnership with generous philanthropists and community partners, works to improve the quality of life for people who live and work in the eight-county region through its leadership and strategic grantmaking.

Our Mission:

We are cultivating a thriving Greater Rochester region — powered by philanthropy, grounded in community, and sustained across generations.

Our Vision:

We envision a Greater Rochester region transformed by enduring philanthropy, where every person, neighborhood, and future generation can thrive.

Dr. Marlene Caroselli Excellence-in-Communication Scholarship

Purpose of Scholarship

To recognize those high school seniors who have consistently demonstrated excellence in both the spoken and written word and plan to pursue college and a career that requires excellence in communication.

Number and Size of Awards

Number of recipients and award amounts vary; award amount may be split between two or more recipients. Award paid in one lump sum in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters. Average award $5,000; not to exceed the cost of tuition.

Donor Information

A former St. John Fisher College professor who understood and greatly admired the hard work and challenges of single-parent students created this scholarship to support their higher education endeavors and to improve their employability, their lives, and the lives of their children.

The McKnight Endowment Fund for Neuroscience offers the Neurobiology of Brain Disorders Award to support innovative research aimed at understanding and treating brain disorders. It provides up to four awards of $100,000 each year for three years, encouraging proposals that explore biological mechanisms and environmental contributions to neurological disorders. The program emphasizes inclusivity and collaboration among researchers to advance the field and improve therapeutic interventions for conditions such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.

31Heroes

On August 6, 2011, a tragedy shook the military community and Americans everywhere. In a single instance, America lost 30 military service members, many of whom were members of the Navy SEAL community—and one military K9– when a CH-47 Chinook helicopter, call sign Extortion 17, was downed in Afghanistan.

Established to honor the 31 Americans killed in action on August 6, 2011, 31Heroes serves to impact the lives of our nation’s heroes and their families, while remembering the fallen, through athletic endeavors and competitive fundraising events.

Our Mission: The mission of 31Heroes is to raise money and awareness through social and athletic events to support the families of Extortion 17 and honor their legacy by funding treatment for Veterans suffering from mental health issues.

Our Focus

Our goal is to create opportunities for the families of Extortion 17 to create healthier lifestyles and to provide financial relief in times of need. We consider it our responsibility to make a positive impact in the lives of each family. Whether through grants we provide, or through partnering with other non-profit organizations that offer programs or services that we do not, we are devoted to the families and creating a legacy the men of Extortion 17 would be proud of.

Guidelines

• Individual limits will not exceed $3750 annually
• Family Grants range from $750 to the maximum range of $1500
• Family members must submit an online application for consideration
• Applications may be submitted at any time during this funding cycle
• Priority and funding will be based on the Primary Next of Kin list

Lifestyle Grants

Lifestyle Grants are aimed at improving health and lifestyle via physical fitness, nutrition, holistic treatment, etc. Limit for this grant is $1500

About Us

Since 1991, area residents have been turning to the Community Foundation of Whitley County, Indiana to make their philanthropic giving as impactful as possible. We are a public charity serving Whitley County citizens who share a common concern—improving the quality of life in Whitley County. To do this, individuals, families, businesses, and organizations have made donations to the Greater Good Fund of Whitley County and instructed the Foundation to direct their gifts wherever the need is the greatest. These funds are invested and twice a year the Foundation’s volunteer Grants Committee reviews applications and makes funding recommendations to the Board of Directors.

Giving is the heart of what we do here at the Community Foundation. Every year, we give over $1 million dollars to non-profits, community entities, and college-bound students here in Whitley County. We fund a variety of causes that promote sustainable impact towards the betterment of Whitley County. Your project may be next!

What We Grant

The Community Foundation’s Greater Good Fund responds to the ever-changing issues facing Whitley County.

Twice a year (April 1 and November 1) the Foundation’s volunteer Grants Committee reviews applications and makes funding recommendations to the Board of Directors. Grants are made possible by donors who have instructed the Foundation to direct their gifts wherever the need is the greatest.

Categories of support include:

• Arts & Culture,
• Health,
• Human Services,
• Recreation,
• Community Development,
• animal welfare, and
• Education.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Halfacre Excellence in Music Scholarship

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.

The Douglas W. Pfautz Memorial Scholarship Fund honors a dedicated community servant and family man, Doug Pfautz. Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Elizabethtown, this scholarship supports high school seniors from the Elizabethtown Area School District who demonstrate good moral character and a commitment to community service. Applicants must maintain good academic standing and plan to pursue further education. This one-time award encourages students to embody the Rotary motto of 'Service Above Self', continuing Doug's legacy of service.

The Eash-Potter Scholarship supports LGBTQ youth in central Pennsylvania, honoring Melinda Eash and Sharon Potter's legacy. It is available to graduating high school seniors from specific counties who demonstrate commitment to enhancing the community climate for LGBTQ+ individuals. Financial need is a consideration, and the scholarship is a one-time award. Students of color, transgender individuals, and children of LGBTQ+ parents are particularly encouraged to apply, promoting diversity and inclusion within the scholarship program.