Best Grants for Community Centers in Kentucky

History of AHTF

In the beginning, AHTF’s founders recognized that hand therapy was needed and worked; however, research to support that belief was limited.

The American Society of Hand Therapists (ASHT) was founded in 1977. By the 1980’s hand therapy was growing fast and clinical knowledge of hand care lead to remarkable improvements in the treatment of diseased and injured hands. With improvements, however, came the increased need to further substantiate hand therapy practice.

Burkhalter New Investigator Grant for Clinical Research in Hand & Upper Limb Rehabilitation

Purpose

In 1993, the AHTF established a grant in honor of Dr. William Burkhalter (1928-1992), a long-time advocate and promoter of hand therapy. The purpose of the award is to support scientific clinical research in the field of hand and upper limb rehabilitation.

Types of Studies

Experimental, non-experimental, pilot studies, quasi-experimental, measurement, or qualitative studies designed to advance the clinical practice of hand and upper extremity rehabilitation in categories identified by the AHTF research priorities will be considered.

The African-American Community Foundation - Wahid Abdullah Memorial Scholarship, established in 1997 by Jim Bucher, honors the memory of Wahid Abdullah, a promising young scholar whose life was tragically cut short. This scholarship aims to support Montgomery County students pursuing higher education at accredited institutions. The Dayton Foundation, a key philanthropic partner in the region, manages this scholarship as part of its mission to promote equitable opportunities and strengthen the community through education and charitable initiatives.

The African-American Community Foundation - Major John F. Harris, Jr., Memorial Scholarship aims to support JROTC graduates from Dayton Public Schools in pursuing higher education. Established by The Dayton Foundation, it honors Major John Harris, Jr., a dedicated instructor who inspired students to achieve independence. Eligible applicants must demonstrate leadership and be accepted into accredited educational institutions. This scholarship reflects the Foundation's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and empowering youth in the Greater Dayton area.

History of AHTF

In the beginning, AHTF’s founders recognized that hand therapy was needed and worked; however, research to support that belief was limited.

The American Society of Hand Therapists (ASHT) was founded in 1977. By the 1980’s hand therapy was growing fast and clinical knowledge of hand care lead to remarkable improvements in the treatment of diseased and injured hands. With improvements, however, came the increased need to further substantiate hand therapy practice.

Judy Bell-Krotoski "Grab the Evidence" Grant

Purpose

In 2003, AHTF awarded the first “Grab the Future” Grant. This name was changed in 2005, in response to the growing need to fund basic research science and evidence-based studies in hand and upper limb rehabilitation.

The purpose of the award as designed is to serve as a catalyst for a skilled researcher and/or research team to develop their role as principal investigators and to provide seed money for procurement of larger external funding. 

Types of Studies

Experimental studies, pilot studies, or systematic reviews/meta-analyses which support the evidence of hand and upper extremity rehabilitation in the diagnostic categories identified by the AHTF research priorities or by the specific donor’s research priorities will be considered.

The OJJDP FY 2026 Second Chance Act Youth Reentry Program aims to provide critical support for moderate- to high-risk youth transitioning back into their communities after confinement. This funding opportunity encourages collaboration among state agencies, local governments, Tribes, and community organizations to deliver comprehensive reentry services and assist youth in overcoming challenges related to recidivism. Applications are due by November 9, 2026, at 8:59 p.m. ET.

The Schilling Technical Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides four scholarships of $2,000 each to graduating seniors from select high schools. It is renewable for an additional year if a 2.5 GPA is maintained while enrolled in at least 12 credit hours. Eligible students must demonstrate financial need and submit a FAFSA-SAI, along with a transcript and an essay. This scholarship aims to support students pursuing vocational or two-year accredited education.

The Springfield Area Foundation for Architecture Scholarship aims to support undergraduate students in their third, fourth, or fifth year majoring in Architecture. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a GPA of 3.0 or above, and be residents of specific counties. A portfolio and essay are required for submission, ensuring that the scholarship empowers talented individuals to pursue their architectural studies and contribute to the community.

The Myasthenia Gravis Network (MGNet) Scholar Program is designed to enhance research capabilities in myasthenia gravis through individualized training and mentorship. Funded by the Rare Diseases Clinical Research Network (RDCRN), this program supports scholars with up to $75,000 for salary and research costs, aiming to prepare them for independent careers in clinical and translational research. Eligible candidates include MDs, PhDs, and mid-career faculty committed to advancing MG research.

The OJJDP FY 2026 Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Program Support aims to fortify a national network of 61 multiagency task forces dedicated to combating child sexual exploitation facilitated by technology. This funding opportunity enhances training, prevention, and outreach efforts while fostering collaboration among law enforcement entities. Applications are due in JustGrants by November 9, 2026, at 8:59 p.m. ET, ensuring timely support for critical initiatives to protect children.

The Gravelin Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, awards a $450 grant to a graduating high school senior who has faced significant life challenges, such as illness or trauma. Eligible candidates must have a minimum GPA of 3.3, show financial need via a FAFSA-SAI form, and plan to enroll in an accredited two-year, four-year, or vocational institution. Applicants are required to submit a transcript, a personal essay, and details of their community service and school involvement.

The Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training (ARRT) Program, funded by the US HHS: Administration for Community Living, aims to enhance the capabilities of individuals with advanced degrees in conducting high-quality research focused on health and function outcomes for people with disabilities. The program offers advanced training opportunities over a 36-month period, specifically targeting rehabilitation researchers, including those with disabilities, to foster multidisciplinary approaches in disability and rehabilitation research.

The Gunner Lee Thomason Autism Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides a $700 grant to a graduating high school senior or undergraduate student dedicated to working with autistic individuals and their families. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate financial need. Preference is given to those from the Truman Lake area. The application requires a transcript, essay, letter of recommendation, and a description of community service and work experience.

The Polk County Tech Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides a $2,000 award for eligible high school seniors from select schools. This scholarship is renewable for a second year if a 2.5 GPA is maintained while enrolled in an accredited two-year or vocational program. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and submit an essay detailing their work experience and academic goals, ensuring support for those pursuing careers in technical fields.

The Goossen Schroeder, Amber, Scholarship offers a $500 award for graduating seniors from Gage County with a minimum 3.0 GPA and ACT score. Managed by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, this scholarship aims to assist deserving students in pursuing higher education. Eligible applicants must complete the application independently and submit original letters of recommendation. The Foundation promotes academic excellence and civic involvement, awarding over $55,000 annually to support educational opportunities in the community.

The American Legion Post 27 Scholarship, offered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, provides $500 scholarships to two Beatrice High School graduating seniors (one male and one female) pursuing education at accredited institutions. The Foundation, established in 1987, has a $3.8 million Endowment Fund and awards over $55,000 in scholarships annually to support students in their academic endeavors. Applications must be completed by the students themselves and adhere to specific ethical guidelines.

The Field Initiated Projects Program aims to foster new research and develop solutions that enhance the inclusion and independence of individuals with disabilities. This initiative focuses on generating scientific knowledge and understanding critical issues faced by these populations, particularly those with significant support needs. With a total of 16 grants available over a 36-month period, this program encourages innovative approaches that support employment, living arrangements, and caregiver involvement.

The Traumatic Brain Injury Model Systems Centers aim to enhance TBI rehabilitation through evidence-based research. These centers focus on generating knowledge to improve health, community participation, and employment outcomes for TBI individuals. Funded by the US HHS Administration for Community Living, the grants support site-specific and collaborative research, contributing to a longitudinal database. Each center can receive varying funding amounts, depending on eligible database participants, with a project timeline of 60 months comprising five 12-month budget periods.

The Undergraduate Winner's Circle Scholarships, offered by the Iowa Foundation for Agricultural Advancement, support Iowa youth pursuing agricultural studies at 2- or 4-year institutions. Eligible applicants must be graduates of Iowa high schools or members of 4-H or FFA chapters and maintain full-time status. This initiative aims to encourage students to excel in agricultural careers by providing financial assistance tailored to their educational needs.

The Collaborative Centers in Children’s Environmental Health Research and Translation program aims to establish a national network of research centers focused on improving children's health through innovative research and public health strategies. By fostering collaboration within the children’s environmental health community, these centers will lead the way in translating scientific findings into actionable practices, ensuring a healthier future for children while addressing emerging environmental threats.

The Larry A. Weaver, Jr. Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, awards $4,000 to a graduating high school senior or HiSet diploma holder who is a member of the Buffalo Baptist Church in Buffalo, MO. Applicants must demonstrate financial need via FAFSA-SAI, submit a transcript, and provide an essay detailing community service and school activities, along with a recommendation letter from a church staff member.

The Aden, Jane and Roger Scholarship, offered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, provides a $500 financial award to Beatrice High School graduating seniors actively involved in a Christian church. With a focus on financial need, applicants must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA. Established in 1987, the Foundation supports educational opportunities within the Beatrice School District, managing a $3.8 million Endowment Fund and providing over $55,000 in scholarships annually.

The Diane and Peter Christodoulou Memorial Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, aims to support students with learning disabilities. Offering two scholarships of $1,250 each, eligibility requires a GPA of 2.5 or higher and proof of disability. High school seniors must submit their IEP, while undergraduates need a verification letter from their Disability Service Coordinator. This initiative promotes academic achievement and community engagement among students facing learning challenges.

This funding opportunity aims to enhance the cancer surveillance workforce through education and support for certified Oncology Data Specialists. The initiative will improve the quality and completeness of cancer data collected by the National Program of Cancer Registries. By fostering collaboration and promoting the value of cancer surveillance data, this program seeks to empower public health actions, research, and policy-making, ensuring a robust response to current and future cancer-related challenges.

The Daniel DiSylvester Memorial Soccer Scholarship offers two scholarships of $2,300 each to graduating high school seniors who have played organized soccer for four years. Applicants must have a GPA of 2.2 or above and demonstrate financial need by submitting a FAFSA-SAI. This scholarship promotes academic success and recognizes the dedication of student-athletes pursuing higher education at accredited institutions.

The BJA FY 2026 Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crimes Act Program aims to assist state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies in investigating and prosecuting civil rights offenses that resulted in death before December 31, 1979. This funding opportunity is part of the DOJ's broader commitment to enhance public safety, protect civil rights, and ensure justice for victims of violent crime. Applications are due on November 20, 2026.

The Shirley Mudy Scholarship Fund, managed by the Crown Point Community Foundation, offers financial assistance for graduating high school seniors from Lake, Porter, Jasper, or Newton County. Eligible students must have a minimum 3.0 GPA, have participated in the Cedar Lake Girls Softball League or Riptide Travel Ball for at least four years, and plan to attend an accredited college, university, or trade school. An additional essay is required for application.

The Burrell Family Scholarship, administered by the Crown Point Community Foundation, supports South Lake County residents pursuing degrees in visual or performing arts. This non-renewable scholarship is aimed at graduating high school seniors and college students, ensuring that the funds reach those who demonstrate a commitment to arts education. The scholarship committee evaluates applications based on specific donor criteria, promoting educational opportunities within the community.