Best Grants for Youth Programs in Iowa

The Minnesota Twins Community Fund, established in 1991, has significantly impacted youth sports in Twins Territory by providing over $24 million in support. Through grants and donations, they empower young athletes, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and personal growth. The fund focuses on 501c3 nonprofits in their region, ensuring that initiatives foster both athletic skills and character development. With strict guidelines for donations, the Twins continue to enhance community engagement and inspire the next generation of leaders.

The Van Program by Variety - the Children's Charity of Iowa offers vital transportation services to at-risk and underprivileged children. Over 40 years, the program has provided over 400 vans to nonprofits, ensuring children can attend medical appointments, therapy sessions, and recreational activities. This initiative supports families facing financial strain while fostering community connections and inclusivity. With a mission to enhance the lives of children with special needs, Variety is committed to making a positive impact across Iowa.

The Title IV, Part B - Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers Grant Program in Iowa aims to provide funding to schools and community organizations for establishing community learning centers. These centers will offer academic support and enrichment activities to ensure the safety and development of children during after-school hours. Grants range from $50,000 to $300,000 per year, with a focus on helping Title I eligible schools.

The AdvoCare Foundation, established in 1993, aims to promote health and wellness for children through its grant program. Focused on year-round initiatives, the foundation supports local communities where AdvoCare distributors operate. Grants typically last one year with an average funding of $25,000, although multi-year support may be available. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster positive health changes and encourages collaborative efforts with previous grantees.

Iowa Department of Health and Human Services

Iowa HHS provides high quality programs and services that protect and improve the health and resiliency of individuals, families, and communities.

Refugee Youth Mentoring Program

Purpose

The purpose of this RFP  is to select qualified applicants to provide Youth Mentoring (YM) services to Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) eligible youth ages 15–24 in Iowa, consistent with ORR guidance. Program goals are to promote positive civic/social engagement and support educational/vocational advancement. Services include matching youth with mentors (one-on-one or group) and providing case management to support educational and career development, within five years of the youth’s date of eligibility.  The Agency anticipates awarding multiple contracts from this procurement. 

FY27 RFP COAEREF27001 for Refugee Mentoring

Purpose

The purpose of this RFP #COAEREF27001 is to select qualified applicants to provide Youth Mentoring (YM) services to Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) eligible youth ages 15–24 in Iowa, consistent with ORR guidance. Program goals are to promote positive civic/social engagement and support educational/vocational advancement. Services include matching youth with mentors (one-on-one or group) and providing case management to support educational and career development, within five years of the youth’s date of eligibility.  The Agency anticipates awarding multiple contracts from this procurement. 

The MFA Oil Foundation Grant offers cash support to nonprofit organizations focused on enhancing communities where MFA Oil operates. With a mission to bolster rural areas, the foundation prioritizes initiatives that develop youth leadership, agricultural education, and community problem-solving. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt nonprofits and accredited educational institutions. However, grants are not available for operating expenses, political lobbying, or individual support. This initiative seeks to empower organizations that create sustainable change in their communities.

The Encova Foundation of West Virginia is dedicated to improving communities by supporting local causes that align with the values of its associates and policyholders. They focus on health, education, and wellness, emphasizing the importance of children's success. Organizations applying for grants must be U.S.-based and verified as charitable. Preference is given to initiatives impacting health and education, especially those involving Encova associates as active participants.

The Connecting Joy Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to enhance the hospital experience for children battling illness through engaging gaming programs. This initiative supports children's hospitals and nonprofits by funding equipment, staffing, and connectivity, ensuring children can enjoy gaming at their bedside. With grants ranging from $25,000 to $150,000, the program focuses on offering joy and distraction, helping young patients cope with their hospital stays while facilitating connections with peers.