Best Grants for Community Service Projects in Kansas

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Delphos Community Fund

This is an unrestricted community grant fund that supports the Delphos, KS community..

What type of support is funded?

• Projects or programs that serve the community and/or advance the mission of the organization
• Seed money to establish or initiate a new project, program, or organization, including operating expenses
• Capacity building or activities that strengthen an organization to increase its ability to fulfill its mission, including technology & equipment, professional development & training, additional staff to implement a new program, etc.
• Capital improvements including new construction or renovation of a facility
• Endowment funds to provide permanent and long-term support for an organization or program

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Smith County Action Fund

Smith County Action Fund is an unrestricted community grant fund. The Fund was created by the generosity of individuals who have contributed money to the Foundation for charitable use to address the present and future needs of Smith County.

From this endowed fund, the Foundation Board annually determines and designates the amount of available funding in the form of community grants.

The applications are open to a variety of issues and target populations. However, successful applications are those that will help fulfill the Foundation’s mission to improve the quality of life for Smith County.

All non-profit organizations are encouraged to apply as well as groups and individuals working on a charitable community project. For-profit organizations will not be considered unless the request is for a charitable project. Grants will be limited to projects within Smith County.

What type of support is funded?

• Projects or programs that serve the community and/or advance the mission of the organization
• Seed money to establish or initiate a new project, program, or organization, including operating expenses
• Capacity building or activities that strengthen an organization to increase its ability to fulfill its mission, including technology & equipment, professional development & training, additional staff to implement a new program, etc.
• Capital improvements including new construction or renovation of a facility
• Endowment funds to provide permanent and long-term support for an organization or program

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Washington County Opportunity Fund

The Washington County Opportunity Fund is an unrestricted community grant fund. The Fund was created by the generosity of individuals who have contributed money to the Foundation for charitable use to address the present and future needs of Washington County.

From this endowed fund, the Foundation Board annually determines and designates the amount of available funding in the form of community grants.

The Foundation’s Washington County Opportunity Fund accepts applications once a year in the spring. Applications received outside of the grant cycle are not accepted.

The applications are open to a variety of issues and target populations. However, successful applications are those that will help fulfill the Foundation’s mission to improve the quality of life for Washington County.

All non-profit organizations are encouraged to apply as well as groups and individuals working on a charitable community project. For-profit organizations will not be considered unless the request is for a charitable project. Grants will be limited to projects within Washington County.

What type of support is funded?

• Projects or programs that serve the community and/or advance the mission of the organization
• Seed money to establish or initiate a new project, program, or organization, including operating expenses
• Capacity building or activities that strengthen an organization to increase its ability to fulfill its mission, including technology & equipment, professional development & training, additional staff to implement a new program, etc.
• Capital improvements including new construction or renovation of a facility
• Endowment funds to provide permanent and long-term support for an organization or program

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Hanover Community Fund

The Hanover Community Fund is an unrestricted community grant fund that supports the Hanover, KS community. The Fund was created by the generosity of individuals who have contributed money for the charitable use to address the present and future needs of Hanover, KS.

From this endowed fund, the advisory committee annually determines and designates the amount of available funding in the form of community grants.

The Foundation’s Hanover Community Fund accepts applications once a year. Applications received outside of the grant cycle are not accepted.

All non-profit organizations are encouraged to apply as well as groups and individuals working on a charitable community project. For-profit organizations will not be considered unless the request is for a charitable project. Grants will be limited to projects within Hanover, KS.

What type of support is funded?

• Projects or programs that serve the community and/or advance the mission of the organization
• Seed money to establish or initiate a new project, program, or organization, including operating expenses
• Capacity building or activities that strengthen an organization to increase its ability to fulfill its mission, including technology & equipment, professional development & training, additional staff to implement a new program, etc.
• Capital improvements including new construction or renovation of a facility
• Endowment funds to provide permanent and long-term support for an organization or program

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Clifton Community Fund

The Clifton Community Fund is an unrestricted community grant fund that supports the Clifton, KS community. The Fund was created by the generosity of individuals who have contributed money for the charitable use to address the present and future needs of Clifton, KS.

From this endowed fund, the advisory committee annually determines and designates the amount of available funding in the form of community grants.

The Foundation’s Clifton Community Fund accepts applications once a year. Applications received outside of the grant cycle are not accepted.

All non-profit organizations are encouraged to apply as well as groups and individuals working on a charitable community project. For-profit organizations will not be considered unless the request is for a charitable project. Grants will be limited to projects within Clifton, KS.

What type of support is funded?

• Projects or programs that serve the community and/or advance the mission of the organization
• Seed money to establish or initiate a new project, program, or organization, including operating expenses
• Capacity building or activities that strengthen an organization to increase its ability to fulfill its mission, including technology & equipment, professional development & training, additional staff to implement a new program, etc.
• Capital improvements including new construction or renovation of a facility
• Endowment funds to provide permanent and long-term support for an organization or program

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

About Us

As an affiliate of the Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation (GNWKCF), we join a collective of area community foundations aimed at increasing philanthropic giving in the northwest Kansas region. Both endowed (long-term, invested funds) and non-endowed (short-term, “pass-though”) funds are developed to provide financial support to 501(c)(3) and other qualifying non-profit organizations and for charitable purposes to benefit area residents.

When you partner with the SCCF for your philanthropic endeavors, your fund(s) will be commingled with other funds and managed professionally by the GNWKCF. Your fund assets will grow over time and have a lasting impact for years to come!

Our Available Grant Funds

To support a wide range of community needs, the Sheridan County Community Foundation utilizes multiple funding “buckets,” including unrestricted community funds, designated funds, field-of-interest funds, and other available grantmaking resources. This flexible structure allows us to match projects with the most appropriate sources of support and maximize the overall impact of each grant awarded. In some cases, the Foundation may also recommend additional or complementary funding from individual fund holders — particularly Donor Advised Funds — as we collaborate with donors to develop new funding streams and expand opportunities to meet evolving community priorities.

Sheridan County Community Foundation: Sponsorship Requests  (Up to $500)

Our Sponsorship Grant Program supports local events, seasonal activities, and community gatherings that bring people together across Sheridan County.

Ideal for:

• Community celebrations, fundraisers, youth activities, and annual events that enhance local quality of life.

Program Highlights:

• Awards of up to $500 per request
• Approximately 10 sponsorships awarded each year
• Maximum of $500 per organization per year
• Simple, streamlined application

Examples of supported events include: community recreation seasons, benefit walks and runs, fairs and rodeos, school and youth activities, holiday celebrations, and other local traditions.

General Grantmaking Criteria

We support projects and programs that benefit Sheridan County residents and strengthen local communities. Organizations based outside Sheridan County may apply if their project directly benefits Sheridan County.

Examples of eligible projects include:

• Community programs or services that meet local needs or advance your organization’s mission
• Seed funding to launch new projects, programs, or organizations (including start-up operating costs)
• Capacity building to strengthen organizational effectiveness — such as technology or equipment upgrades, professional development, staff expansion, or training
• Capital improvements including facility renovation or new construction
• Endowment support to ensure long-term sustainability of a program or organization

The Greenpoint Foundation Grant aims to enhance community life by supporting organizations that focus on agriculture, food security, education, and community enhancement. Established in 2022, the Foundation accepts grant applications year-round for both general operating budgets and specific projects. Priority is given to 501(c)(3) organizations and local government entities, while faith-based programs are considered on a case-by-case basis. Grant recipients must submit impact reports to ensure continued support.

The EDA FY25 Disaster Supplemental program provides critical funding to support communities recovering from severe economic distress caused by natural disasters in 2023 and 2024. With no submission deadlines for Readiness and Implementation Paths, and a specific deadline for Industry Transformation applications, this initiative aims to enhance community resilience and improve economic trajectories through strategic projects that engage local stakeholders and private industries.

The Columbus Area Community Foundation Grant supports local 501(c)(3) public charities, schools, government agencies, and religious organizations in Cherokee County, Kansas. This grant aims to facilitate charitable giving and enhance community projects. Applications are accepted year-round, with quarterly awards prioritizing local initiatives. Eligible applicants must adhere to specific guidelines, ensuring that funded projects serve the broader community without religious recruitment or instruction. This initiative reflects a commitment to fostering community development and support.

The Crawford Taylor Foundation focuses on enhancing programs that create lasting legacies in St. Louis. With priorities in community development, women's health, animal welfare, and environmental preservation, the foundation seeks to support 501(c)(3) organizations that meet specific eligibility criteria. They avoid funding multi-year grants or for-profit initiatives, emphasizing support for local causes and relief efforts deemed important by the Taylor family.

The Peter Chortek Leadership Award honors Jewish high school students in San Diego who demonstrate outstanding leadership and commitment to community service through tikkun olam. Awardees receive a $9,000 stipend, $540 to set up a Donor Advised Fund, and a professional video showcasing their project. This award encourages students to create or enhance community initiatives, fostering engagement in social justice and service projects.

The U.S. Venture/Schmidt Family Foundation supports initiatives that drive self-sufficiency and community enrichment for vulnerable populations. With over $4.31 million awarded last year, the foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate measurable impact and foster stronger communities. Eligible organizations include those designated as public charities by the IRS. The foundation emphasizes collaboration with other funders, avoiding sole financial support to ensure comprehensive community development.

The Gypsum Valley Community Foundation Fund aims to enhance the local community of Gypsum, KS, through charitable initiatives supported by dedicated volunteers. Established to address community needs, the fund focuses on preserving the area's heritage while inspiring future generations. A local advisory board regularly meets to evaluate and grant funding for various community projects, ensuring that the impact of the foundation resonates throughout the community.

The Courtney S. Turner Charitable Trust, established in 1978, supports public charitable and educational initiatives in the Atchison, Kansas community. Founded by Courtney S. Turner, a prominent local figure, the trust focuses on community improvement, education, health, and human services. It primarily funds 501(c)(3) organizations for specific projects with a one-year grant duration, ensuring a positive and lasting impact on the community.

The Dane G. Hansen Community Grant supports charitable projects in Northwest Kansas, providing $50,000 annually for community initiatives. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and educational institutions in specified counties. Grants aim to enhance education, healthcare, economic development, and social services while prioritizing community engagement. The program, managed by the Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation, will conclude in 2025, encouraging diverse projects that promote local well-being and sustainability.

The Smoky Valley Community Enhancement Fund offers unrestricted grants aimed at addressing the needs of the Smoky Valley area, including northern McPherson County and southern Saline County. Established through community contributions, the fund supports diverse charitable projects. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations and individuals engaged in community service. The Foundation prioritizes initiatives that enhance the quality of life in the region, ensuring that funding aligns with its mission to foster community improvement.

The Thriving Community Impact Fund offers grants up to $2,499 to support local programs that enhance community health and well-being. This initiative by Gundersen Health emphasizes collaboration, focusing on areas such as physical and mental health, poverty alleviation, and neighborhood improvements. Organizations like non-profits and government agencies can apply for funding during a rolling application period, with decisions made monthly. The fund aims to empower communities and address health inequities through impactful partnerships.

The Ochylski Family Foundation supports registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations through grants aimed at enhancing their operational capacity. With an application deadline of October 1, organizations must submit a detailed request outlining their initiatives. The foundation's mission aligns with its commitment to foster community development and nonprofit effectiveness in Iowa, ensuring that resources are allocated to impactful projects that serve the public good.

The Derby Community Foundation Community Enrichment Grant provides competitive funding of $500 to $10,000 to non-profit organizations and government entities that serve the Derby community. Eligible projects must align with the Foundation's mission and benefit residents within the USD 260 boundaries. Organizations can apply annually, but those that received funding in the previous cycle must wait a year before reapplying.

Alliance for Social Trust: Trust in Practice Awards

Trust is the foundation of vibrant, resilient communities and healthy civic life. Across the country, local and national organizations are demonstrating the profound ways trust shapes our collective well-being—strengthening relationships between neighbors, cultivating confidence in institutions, and enabling people to work together to solve shared challenges. These efforts are often rooted in the knowledge and leadership of those closest to the work. 

The Trust in Practice Awards support non-profit organizations that are collaborating on new initiatives to build trust across local or virtual communities. Grantees will be part of a national network dedicated to fostering trust through the Alliance for Social Trust’s programs and storytelling platforms. Award recipients will also participate in the annual Trust in Practice Summit to celebrate the work of trust builders.

Meade County Community Foundation

The idea for Meade County Community Foundation began as a way to keep funds collected by the Sherriff's Department in Meade County instead of sending them onto the state. Since 2019, we have funded several county-wide and individual community projects thanks to these funds and The Patterson Family Foundation.

MCCF is focused on Meade County and all three school districts that serve the youth of our county, extending our reach into Seward County as well. MCCF is a 501(c)3 organization.

Grants

With the generosity of all of our donors and the partnerships we have with the Meade County Sheriff's department and The Patterson Family Foundation, MCCF was able to grant out $16,550 in our Summer 2025 cycle. In 2025 alone, MCCF granted out nearly $30,000. All time grants from MCCF are now over $76,000. 

About NCRC

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) is a nationwide network of nearly 800 organizations and champions working for a Just Economy, where all Americans can build wealth and provide for their families with stability and dignity.

Our vision: To solve America’s historic racial and socio-economic wealth, income and opportunity divides. This vision is the foundation of the Just Economy Pledge.

Fellowship for Equitable Development

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition matches top-level graduate degree students with premiere community development organizations.

NCRC is looking for fellowship projects that move the needle on housing, small business development, and workforce development. Projects may directly result in community outcomes in these focus areas, or involve work with community members to create plans or project pipelines that will solve local issues in these areas.

The NCRC Fellowship cultivates the next generation of community development leaders and empowers them to tackle the issues of tomorrow. The community development sector will face significant challenges in the coming decades from climate change, widening wealth gaps, food insecurities, extreme housing shortages and other needs. These challenges will disproportionately impact low-wealth communities and communities of color. Therefore, it is NCRC’s intention and pledge to uphold the values of community empowerment in the fellowship program.

Interested students and host organizations must apply for this fellowship opportunity.

Program Benefits for Student Fellows Include:

• High-quality training and support from regional leaders in the nonprofit, government, planning and community development fields
• A $20,000 stipend for the eight-month, part-time (20-hours per week) fellowship
• The opportunity to meet with leaders in the nonprofit, government, planning and community development fields
• Academic credit, in accordance with the policies of the Fellows’ respective universities
• Complimentary admission to the NCRC annual Just Economy Conference

Program Benefits for Host Organizations Include:

• Fresh, innovative talent to help advance organizational mission
• The opportunity to help shape the next generation of community development leaders
• Participation in a fellowship program at little to no cost

The Process

1. NCRC Members Apply; 2. NCRC Selects Member Projects; 3. Students Apply To Selected Projects; 4. Top Student Candidates Interviewed; 5. NCRC & Member Select Student Fellow; 6. NCRC Onboards Member & Student 7. Fellowship Commences

Student Fellow Applications

Fellow applications will open for eligible students once host projects have been reviewed and finalists selected. Students will apply to be considered for a specific host project. Top student candidates will be interviewed by NCRC as well as the host organization.

Fellow Requirements

• Must provide documentation confirming active enrollment (i.e. Letter of Enrollment from Registrar or transcript)
• Must commit to fellowship for full Period of September 14, 2026-May 14, 2027 academic school year
• Must commit to a 20 hour/week fellowship
• Must commit to a schedule with at least one day per week in-office of host organization

About NCRC

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) is a nationwide network of nearly 800 organizations and champions working for a Just Economy, where all Americans can build wealth and provide for their families with stability and dignity.

Our vision: To solve America’s historic racial and socio-economic wealth, income and opportunity divides. This vision is the foundation of the Just Economy Pledge.

Fellowship for Equitable Development

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition matches top-level graduate degree students with premiere community development organizations.

NCRC is looking for fellowship projects that move the needle on housing, small business development, and workforce development. Projects may directly result in community outcomes in these focus areas, or involve work with community members to create plans or project pipelines that will solve local issues in these areas.

The NCRC Fellowship cultivates the next generation of community development leaders and empowers them to tackle the issues of tomorrow. The community development sector will face significant challenges in the coming decades from climate change, widening wealth gaps, food insecurities, extreme housing shortages and other needs. These challenges will disproportionately impact low-wealth communities and communities of color. Therefore, it is NCRC’s intention and pledge to uphold the values of community empowerment in the fellowship program.

Interested students and host organizations must apply for this fellowship opportunity.

Program Benefits for Student Fellows Include:

• High-quality training and support from regional leaders in the nonprofit, government, planning and community development fields
• A $20,000 stipend for the eight-month, part-time (20-hours per week) fellowship
• The opportunity to meet with leaders in the nonprofit, government, planning and community development fields
• Academic credit, in accordance with the policies of the Fellows’ respective universities
• Complimentary admission to the NCRC annual Just Economy Conference

Program Benefits for Host Organizations Include:

• Fresh, innovative talent to help advance organizational mission
• The opportunity to help shape the next generation of community development leaders
• Participation in a fellowship program at little to no cost

The Process

1. NCRC Members Apply; 2. NCRC Selects Member Projects; 3. Students Apply To Selected Projects; 4. Top Student Candidates Interviewed; 5. NCRC & Member Select Student Fellow; 6. NCRC Onboards Member & Student 7. Fellowship Commences

Host Partnerships

Fellowship host partners must be NCRC members. If your organization would like to participate in the Fellowship but is not a member, you can join here and then apply.

Host Requirements

• A compelling project to provide a challenging assignment for fellows with real world application.
• Must commit to a schedule with at least one day per week in office for both fellow and host supervisor.

L’Oréal Paris Celebrates 20 Years of Women of Worth

For 20 years, L’Oréal Paris has honored women who uplift their communities through service. These non-profit leaders, our Women of Worth, each receive $25,000 to support their causes, mentorship from the L’Oréal Paris network and a national platform to share their stories.

The Greater Manhattan Community Foundation transforms lives across our local community. Our deep commitment to giving back helps spark innovation, fuels growth, and builds a stronger community for everyone over the last 25 years.

Howe Family Foundation Grant - 1st Quarter

Established in 2013 through the generosity of Phil and Margaret Howe, the Foundation supports qualified 501(c)(3) organizations working to strengthen safety, opportunity, and quality of life in the Manhattan community.

The Howe Family Foundation (HFF) is dedicated to strengthening family bonds, promoting health and well-being, and fostering entrepreneurial spirit. We strive to empower individuals and communities by supporting initiatives that nurture strong families, advance physical and mental health, and inspire innovative business leadership for a thriving future.

The Howe Family Foundation gives priority to proposals that:

• Improve the lives of children and families
• Develop workforce skills and quality employment opportunities
• Support systems that provide community disaster relief
• Enhance and expand formal education systems
• Advance unique and impactful community improvement projects

The Jewell County Community Fund, part of the Greater Salina Community Foundation, aims to enhance community welfare by providing grants for various projects and programs. This unrestricted fund supports initiatives that improve the quality of life in Jewell County, including capacity building, seed money for new projects, and capital improvements. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities, fostering collaboration to address local needs effectively.