Best Grants for Nonprofit Human Services in Iowa

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, government entities, and fiscally sponsored groups in Iowa can seek up to US $30,000 to launch or sustain programs serving Linn County residents. With a mission to strengthen nonprofits, Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation provides program support across human and social services, education, health, arts, environment, and public benefit for 12-month projects.

Iowa human and social services nonprofits connected to Lutheran ministries may be eligible for funding to support higher education, health and human care, or faith-strengthening programs through the Rupert Dunklau Foundation. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations must be in Nebraska or contiguous states, with human care requests originating within 50 miles of Fremont, Nebraska.

Richard P Kimmel And Laurine Kimmel Charitable Foundation Inc

The Richard P. Kimmel and Laurine Kimmel Charitable Foundation was incorporated in 1988. Its spirit, however, can be traced back to the Kimmels’ farm and orchard near Nebraska City, to their lifelong commitment to agricultural education and research, and to their many years of civic charity and leadership.

Just as Kimmel Orchard has grown and diversified over the years, so too has the Kimmel Foundation’s grant support for education and innovative ideas that offer benefits to many and that may encourage others to contribute similar or even larger grants. The Kimmel Foundation supports proposals that contribute to an organization’s mission and service and offer leadership particularly in the areas of Education, Arts, Agriculture, Humanities and Human Services.

Kimmel Foundation Grants

The Kimmel Foundation provides funds to organizations in Nebraska and Iowa that are exempt from tax and classified as public charities by the Internal Revenue Service, giving highest priority to proposals for funding in five areas below:

• Education, particularly programs of broad impact in Art, Agriculture and Business.
• Arts, including the improvement of art education, appreciation and exhibition.
• Agriculture, notably the teaching and study of significant changes that have broad effects on agricultural practices, with emphasis on horticulture.
• Human Services, including broad community improvements that emphasize partnerships among agencies and stakeholders, eliminate duplication, and improve the awareness of human services.
• Humanities, with priority given to improvements in the teaching of the humanities including increased accessibility to underserved audiences.

Emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches, application of new research and organizational collaboration. The Foundation supports ideas that provide leadership in a field, encourage matching grants of equal or greater size, and contribute substantially to an organization’s mission and service to its constituents.

Iowa human and social service nonprofits seeking event sponsorships or in-kind donations can access funding through Prairie Meadows; support is limited to organizations based in the state. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations, units of political subdivisions, and similar nonprofits, particularly those working in arts, culture, education, economic development, and human services.

Iowa nonprofit organizations planning large-scale community projects in arts and culture, education, economic development, or health and human services can access funding through Prairie Meadows Race Track & Casino. This Legacy Grant Program awards US $100,000 - US $1,000,000 for signature initiatives that enhance and revitalize central Iowa communities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) human and social services organizations in Iowa can seek more than US $1,000 to support community programs through the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation. Focus areas include health and social services, fighting hunger and poverty, public safety, education, and other efforts that strengthen communities where Perdue associates live and work.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) human and social service organizations in Iowa can apply for the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation’s corporate giving program, with awards up to US $1,000 for community-benefit programs. Eligible projects may address poverty, health, education, food insecurity, public safety, or related human services, with a required endorsement from a Perdue associate.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) human services organizations in Iowa working in health and human services, community betterment, youth development, education, or food insecurity can apply for the W R Berkley Corporation Charitable Foundation’s local grant program. Funding supports effective programs in Central Iowa, with one grant considered per organization each calendar year.

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 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 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 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 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 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.

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 North Lee Community Foundation Grant provides funding up to $5,000 to qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofits in North Lee County, Iowa. This grant supports projects in arts, culture, education, health, and community betterment, emphasizing practical solutions and community engagement. Eligible organizations can apply for recurring grants but must submit one application per year. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that demonstrate community impact, leadership development, and collaboration among diverse groups.

The Lee County Charitable Fund offers an Impact Grant of up to $25,000 for nonprofit organizations in Lee County, Iowa, focused on immediate community benefits. Eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits can apply annually, but those who receive the grant cannot apply the following year. Instead, they may seek a smaller grant of up to $7,500. This funding supports projects in arts, culture, education, healthcare, and human services.

The Community Foundation of Des Moines County Grant provides funding ranging from $500 to $2,500 to qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofits and governmental agencies in Des Moines County, Iowa. The grants support projects in arts, culture, education, healthcare, and human services. Exceptional needs may warrant larger amounts. Organizations are limited to one application per project, ensuring focused support for local initiatives that enhance community well-being.

The Stout Foundation Grant supports organizations aligned with the values of its founder, Mr. Stout. Grants are awarded exclusively to entities with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status and focus on charitable, educational, and scientific purposes. Preference is given to organizations with low overhead costs and those located in areas frequented by Foundation members. The Foundation aims to promote effective use of funds while remaining flexible in its grant-making approach.

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 PCIF Community Impact Grants, offered by the Community Foundation for Western Iowa, support innovative projects that enhance the quality of life for all residents in Pottawattamie County. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt nonprofits and government entities. The grants focus on various sectors such as arts, education, health, and community improvement. In the last funding cycle, 42 grants totaling $65,364 were awarded, emphasizing the Foundation's commitment to fostering impactful community initiatives.

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 Shelby County Foundation Grant, managed by the Omaha Community Foundation, supports projects enhancing the quality of life in Shelby County. With two application cycles each year, this grant aims to fund initiatives in civic engagement, culture, health, education, and social services. It invites proposals for capital support and program support, ensuring a lasting impact on community needs. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. CST on the specified deadlines.

Strengthening Our Community Through Powerful Partnerships

We believe in the importance of listening, the impact of diversity, and the effectiveness of giving. The long-standing relationships the Foundation has built with nonprofits, local leaders, our fundholders, and our neighbors enable us to inspire change and achieve results.

Who We Are

Our vision is a connected community of passionate philanthropists, strong nonprofits, and thriving residents. We work to make this vision a reality every day through intentional planning, building strategic partnerships, facilitating meaningful dialogue with all our partners and fundholders, and ensuring we have a lot of fun along the way.

Page County Community Foundation Grant

The Page County Community Foundation, working in partnership with the Clarinda Foundation and the Greater Shenandoah Foundation, aims to improve the quality of life in Page County by supporting community needs in the areas of civic engagement, culture, health, education, and social services. The objective of its grant programs is to fund projects that will have a permanent impact on, and in, Page County. As an affiliate of the Omaha Community Foundation, the Page County Community Foundation was established in 2004.

The Montgomery County Community Foundation Grant, established in 1998, supports community projects in areas such as civic engagement, health, education, and culture. With two application cycles each year, this grant aims to enhance the quality of life in Montgomery County through impactful projects. Applicants must submit their proposals online by the deadline, as no extensions are granted. Funding can be utilized for capital support or specific program activities.

The Mills County Community Foundation Grant, established in 1997, aims to enhance the quality of life in Mills County through funding for civic engagement, culture, health, education, and social services projects. With two annual application cycles, this grant supports initiatives that create a lasting impact on the community. Eligible projects include capital support for equipment purchases and renovations, as well as program support for structured activities with clear objectives and costs.

The Harrison County Community Foundation Grant, established in 1997, seeks to enhance the quality of life in Harrison County through funding projects in civic engagement, culture, health, education, and social services. With two application cycles annually, the foundation supports both capital and program projects that aim for lasting community impact. All grant applications must be submitted online by the specified deadline, with no extensions granted for weekends or holidays.