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Mission and Vision
The Mission of the Foundation is to improve the quality of life in the Coastal Bend by building community endowment and addressing social, educational, environmental, and cultural needs through the awarding of grants and scholarships.
The Foundation’s Vision is to provide the Coastal Bend with:
Scholarships
The CBCF scholarship is open each year. Scholarships awarded will be for the following academic year. Scholarships are available only to students who graduated from a high school in one of the counties in the CBCF Service Area: Aransas, Bee, Jim Wells, Kleberg, Nueces, Refugio and San Patricio. Thanks to our generous donors, the Coastal Bend Community Foundation (CBCF) offers scholarships to students from over 100 funds.
Downes - Jay and Rheba Downes Memorial Scholarship
Purpose
In memory of James Ed (Jay) Downes, an Alice businessman and civic leader, and his wife, Rheba. Mr. Downes founded and served as chief executive of Energy Dynamics, an oilfield equipment and service provider in the domestic and international markets. He was named 1995 Citizen of the Year by the Alice Chamber of Commerce and is a member of its Hall of Honor. He served on the Alice Industrial Foundation Board, the Alice/Jim Wells County Transportation Committee and served as president of the Jim Wells County Master Planners Association in 1993-1994. Jay was an avid golfer and understood the value of a university education. He died unexpectedly in 2000. His wife, Rheba, passed away in 2013.
The Community Foundation of Hancock County offers educational support for Hancock County, Indiana adults who are seeking post-secondary training or schooling to improve their career prospects. There are also some opportunities provided by specific businesses in the area. The application is open year-round until all funds are used.
Nancy King “Dare to Dream” Fund
The purpose of this fund is to honor the Greenfield Kiwanis Club, a group whose members were like family to Nancy, through the provision of scholarships to persons who wish to obtain additional education.
Mission and Vision
The Mission of the Foundation is to improve the quality of life in the Coastal Bend by building community endowment and addressing social, educational, environmental, and cultural needs through the awarding of grants and scholarships.
The Foundation’s Vision is to provide the Coastal Bend with:
Scholarships
The CBCF scholarship is open each year. Scholarships awarded will be for the following academic year. Scholarships are available only to students who graduated from a high school in one of the counties in the CBCF Service Area: Aransas, Bee, Jim Wells, Kleberg, Nueces, Refugio and San Patricio. Thanks to our generous donors, the Coastal Bend Community Foundation (CBCF) offers scholarships to students from over 100 funds.
Wilson - Chase Wilson Memorial 4-H Scholarship
Purpose
In memory of Chase Wilson, a former outstanding Nueces County 4-H member, who died in 1985 as a result of a tragic accident. Chase was a senior student at Texas A&M University in the College of Agriculture. He was due to graduate in the spring of 1985 with plans of a career ahead. The scholarship was established by his family to encourage 4-H members to continue their education beyond the high school level.
The Community Foundation of Hancock County offers educational support for Hancock County, Indiana adults who are seeking post-secondary training or schooling to improve their career prospects. There are also some opportunities provided by specific businesses in the area. The application is open year-round until all funds are used.
Adult Re-Education Fund
Established by John and Linda Zimmermann, this scholarship provides support to adults who wish to obtain additional education and/or training in order to increase employment opportunities.
Community Foundation of Randolph County
Our mission is to bring people and resources together to strengthen the quality of life, both now and in the future, for the residents of Randolph County.
The Community Foundation’s work falls into three major categories: grant-making, donor service, and community convening. Our most visible activities are the grants and scholarships we award each year. Most of these awards come from income earned from permanently endowed funds. Scholarships and other grants come from funds that donors have established for specific purposes.
Environmental Education Scholarship
This fund was set up by the Randolph County Recycling District. The district was established in 1996, dedicated to helping our community reduce waste, reuse creatively, recycle right, respect the earth and rethink sustainability through community outreach and environmental education programs. The fund held at CFRC was created in 2004 to help further their mission by establishing a scholarship for Randolph County seniors who are committed to environmental conservation and aspire to careers that will contribute to the preservation and restoration of the environment.
The Doyle O. and Lelia Jane Bateman Scholarship
The Doyle O. and Lelia Jane Bateman Scholarship, established at the Community Foundation in 2018, honors the memory of husband and wife of 46 years, Doyle and Jane Bateman. Jane worked as a successful realtor in Waynesboro for over 25 years and enjoyed giving back to her community.
The Doyle O. and Lelia Jane Bateman Scholarship will provide college scholarships to deserving students of any age, to include high school seniors (public, private, and homeschool) as well as adult students residing in Staunton, Waynesboro and Augusta County. Selection considerations for the scholarship include, but are not limited to, financial need, involvement in school and community activities, and a strong desire to succeed in school and life.
Bojangles Promise of Tomorrow Scholarship
The Bojangles Promise of Tomorrow Scholarship was established at the Community Foundation in 2024 by Arnold Dale Haywood in the spirit of helping students take a step towards building a brighter future. Mr. Haywood’s parents, John and Diane, were humble, hardworking, and ethical people. They understood that the foundation of parenting is to give their children love and support, as well as encouragement to always believe in the promise of tomorrow. They gave him the chance to chase his dreams.
Mr. Haywood has established the Bojangles Promise of Tomorrow Scholarship to honor his parents and to give local youth the same encouragement and opportunities that were afforded to him.
Bold Foundation
Our Mission: Fighting Student Debt
The average student today will graduate more than $30,000 in debt and is far less likely to start small businesses, seek the highest impact careers, buy homes, or start families. At Bold.org®, we believe that’s a problem worth solving.
New Beginnings Immigrant Scholarship
Immigrating to a new home takes resilience, determination, and a strong commitment to achieving one’s aspirations.
Many immigrants have overcome extraordinary challenges and obstacles to continue their academic journeys and pursue their dreams. As a result of these hurdles, many students from immigrant backgrounds have limited financial resources which can make higher education inaccessible.
This scholarship seeks to support immigrant students so they can continue working toward their educational goals.
To apply, tell us about your experience as an immigrant and your career aspirations.
Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge
The Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge is a charitable organization that has served the independent cities of Staunton and Waynesboro, and the counties of Augusta, Highland and Nelson since 1992.
Scholarships
Our scholarships support students of all ages (high school seniors, current college students, and adults returning to school) residing in Staunton, Waynesboro, and the counties of Augusta, Highland, and Nelson.
Community Scholarship of Excellence
The Community Scholarship for Excellence was established in 1998 to provide funds for college scholarships to outstanding seniors attending high schools both public and private in Staunton, Waynesboro, and Augusta County.
The criteria for the Community Scholarship for Excellence will be based upon merit only. Merit will be based upon the individual’s scholastic achievement, extra-curricular activities, and community involvement and leadership during high school. This scholarship is extremely competitive.
Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge
The Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge is a charitable organization that has served the independent cities of Staunton and Waynesboro, and the counties of Augusta, Highland and Nelson since 1992.
Scholarships
Our scholarships support students of all ages (high school seniors, current college students, and adults returning to school) residing in Staunton, Waynesboro, and the counties of Augusta, Highland, and Nelson.
Henry and Carolyn Obaugh Memorial Scholarship
Henry and Carolyn Smith Obaugh were long-time members of First Baptist Church of Staunton, and their lives were deeply rooted in Christian faith and service. In their memory, their son, Dean Obaugh, established this scholarship to honor their enduring commitment to a life of spiritual purpose and community involvement.
The Henry and Carolyn Obaugh Memorial Scholarship supports individuals of any age who are enrolled in undergraduate or graduate studies with the intent to pursue vocational ministry, either full-time or part-time.
Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge
The Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge is a charitable organization that has served the independent cities of Staunton and Waynesboro, and the counties of Augusta, Highland and Nelson since 1992.
Kenny W. Rodeffer Scholarship
Established by the Rockingham Feeder Cattle Association, this scholarship honors the memory of Kenny Rodeffer, a Virginia Department of Agriculture Livestock Grader and farmer in Bridgewater, VA who was an avid supporter of improved livestock production and agriculture.
Description
The Kenny W. Rodeffer Scholarship supports graduating high school seniors from the counties of Augusta, Highland, Rockbridge, and Rockingham, who are pursuing a two- or four-year degree in an agricultural related field.
Selection Criteria Used by the Selection Committee
Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge
The Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge is a charitable organization that has served the independent cities of Staunton and Waynesboro, and the counties of Augusta, Highland and Nelson since 1992.
Martin Lightsey Scholarship for Technical Education
The Martin Lightsey Scholarship for Technical Education was established to honor Martin Lightsey and all he achieved in the creation and subsequent success of Specialty Blades, Inc. (Cadence, Inc.), upon his stepping down as CEO of the company in 2002.
Description
The Martin Lightsey Scholarship for Technical Education was established in 2002 to provide funds for college scholarships to seniors residing in Staunton, Waynesboro and Augusta County, who intend to pursue or are currently pursuing technical education at a two-year or four-year college. Examples of technical education include but are not limited to degrees in engineering, math, chemistry, physics, computer sciences, statistics, and architecture and associate studies in areas such as quality control, process technology, manufacturing technology, machining, electrical and mechanical operations, and information technology.
Cadence, Inc. and the honoree of this scholarship, Martin Lightsey, value the many possible choices in the pursuit of technical education and careers. Many professional roles in the manufacturing sector require highly-specialized training, much of which can be obtained through community colleges. As such, Cadence Inc. and Mr. Lightsey welcome scholarship applications from students pursuing specific industry credentials, associate degrees, and bachelor degrees.
Selection Criteria Used by the Selection Committee
Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge
The Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge is a charitable organization that has served the independent cities of Staunton and Waynesboro, and the counties of Augusta, Highland and Nelson since 1992.
Peter Veglahn Memorial Scholarship
The Peter Veglahn Memorial Scholarship serves as a memorial to Peter “Pete” Veglahn who was a long time member of the Shenandoah Valley Society for Human Resource Management (SVSHRM) and a member of the Virginia SHRM State Council. Through Pete’s work on behalf of SHRM and his career as a professor at James Madison University, he made many positive contributions to the advancement of the human resource profession.
Description
The Peter Veglahn Memorial Scholarship was established to provide funds for college scholarships to college students pursuing a career in human resources. The successful candidate must reside or attend school in the SVSHRM membership area of Shenandoah, Rockingham, Page and Augusta Counties, including the cities within those Virginia counties.
About
Who We Are
For over 25 years, the Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation has remained committed to leaving a legacy for future generations by promoting philanthropy, providing charitable opportunities, and facilitating donors’ interests. You can trust us to offer expertise in local nonprofit needs and best practices for charitable giving while ensuring your giving goals are met.
Scholarship Opportunities
Richard Gaines Russell Memorial Scholarship
The Richard Gaines Russell Memorial Scholarship was created in 2011 to honor the memory of Richard, who passed on July 22, 2011. He was 49 years old and led a 17-person software development team for Microsoft. He built his first computer from a kit at age 14. Richard attended college at ACU and graduated from MSU. He majored in Engineering Physics at Abilene Christian University from 1980-1982 and in Computer Science at Midwestern State University, graduating in May of 1989.
Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge
The Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge is a charitable organization that has served the independent cities of Staunton and Waynesboro, and the counties of Augusta, Highland and Nelson since 1992.
Roxanne Harsh Staufer Memorial Scholarship
Roxanne Harsh Staufer graduated from Fort Defiance High School in 1967. She attended Bridgewater College for two years before transferring to and graduating from Manchester College.
Description
The Roxanne Harsh Staufer Memorial Scholarship was established to provide funds for educational scholarships to Augusta County residents of any age, with preference given to applicants pursuing a degree in Elementary or Early Childhood Education.
Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge
The Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge is a charitable organization that has served the independent cities of Staunton and Waynesboro, and the counties of Augusta, Highland and Nelson since 1992.
Saunders Brothers, Inc. Scholarship
Saunders Brothers, Inc. is proud to be a premier supplier of superb-quality plant material for garden centers, landscapers, and public gardens throughout the Eastern United States. The Saunders family is excited to offer this scholarship opportunity to all residents of Nelson County, as well as the employees of Saunders Brothers, Inc., and their children and grandchildren.
Description
Established to provide educational scholarship assistance to high school seniors who are Nelson County residents and/or Saunders Brothers, Inc. employees and/or their family members. Candidates for the Scholarship must have demonstrated a desire and passion to pursue higher education.
About
Who We Are
For over 25 years, the Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation has remained committed to leaving a legacy for future generations by promoting philanthropy, providing charitable opportunities, and facilitating donors’ interests. You can trust us to offer expertise in local nonprofit needs and best practices for charitable giving while ensuring your giving goals are met.
Scholarship Opportunities
Royal C. “Bingo” Kinder Scholarship Endowment
The Royal C. "Bingo" Kinder Scholarship Fund was created in 2003 after the passing of Bingo Kinder in 2002. In his will, Mr. Kinder left instructions that portions of his estate be used to support scholarships for the students of Archer County, as well as local grants for Archer County nonprofits. Mr. Kinder graduated from ACHS in 1932 and had a successful track and field career before graduating from the University of North Texas in 1938. Mr. Kinder was a U.S. Navy veteran, a member of the Archer City School Board for 6 years, and a member of the Archer Livestock Association, among others.
Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge
The Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge is a charitable organization that has served the independent cities of Staunton and Waynesboro, and the counties of Augusta, Highland and Nelson since 1992.
The Ganelle Hargrove Cook Scholarship
The Ganelle Hargrove Cook Scholarship was established in 1999 to provide annual scholarships to deserving individuals residing in Staunton, Waynesboro, and Augusta County who are pursuing a two- or four-year degree. Preference will be given to applicants of Hispanic/Latino heritage. Scholarship recipients are eligible to re-apply annually for up to four years as long as the recipient continues to meet scholarship criteria and funds are available. The intent of the scholarship sponsor is to provide scholarships for Hispanic/Latino individuals.
Community Foundation: Central Blue Ridge
Proudly serving the independent cities of Staunton and Waynesboro and the counties of Augusta, Highland, and Nelson in Virginia.
Our Mission
To enrich the quality of life by responding to needs and inspiring philanthropy in our community.
Scholarships
Our 2026 Scholarship Program will disburse over $300,000 this year!
Our scholarships support students of all ages (high school seniors, current college students, and adults returning to school) residing in Staunton, Waynesboro, and the counties of Augusta, Highland, and Nelson.
Only one application is required to be considered for the majority of Community Foundation scholarships.
Frank and Mollie Butler Scholarship
The Frank and Mollie Butler Scholarship was established in 2025 by the Ravenhill Charitable Foundation.
Description
The Frank and Mollie Butler Scholarship will be awarded to graduating high school seniors from Augusta County who are pursuing degrees in Medical/Health Sciences fields or Accounting.
Armstrong County Community Foundation
The Armstrong County Community Foundation, a public nonprofit corporation,
Gary and Janet (Bell) Pettengill Scholarship
Gary approached the Community Foundation after the unexpected death of his wife, Janet, or AJ as she was known by her nieces. For those who knew Janet, she had the heartiest laugh, enjoyed life to the fullest and when she loved you, she loved you with all of her heart.
Scholarship Details
All ACCF Scholarships are merit based.
Community Foundation: Central Blue Ridge
Proudly serving the independent cities of Staunton and Waynesboro and the counties of Augusta, Highland, and Nelson in Virginia.
Our Mission
To enrich the quality of life by responding to needs and inspiring philanthropy in our community.
Dr. Eric W. Bond Scholarship
About the Scholarship
The Dr. Eric W. Bond Scholarship Program was established by colleagues, the Augusta County School Board, and the Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge, to honor Dr. Eric W. Bond’s leadership and service to Augusta County Public Schools. In December 2025, Dr. Bond was surprised with the announcement during a School Board meeting — a testament to the deep respect and gratitude felt across the division.
The inaugural 2026 scholarship year will recognize three graduating seniors at each of the five Augusta County public high schools — a division-wide tribute to his dedication to students and families. The scholarship supports students who demonstrate financial need, meaningful service to their communities, and active participation in extracurricular activities — values long championed by Dr. Bond.
The program recognizes that success after high school takes many forms. In 2026, three scholarships will be awarded at each Augusta County public high school.
Looking for higher education grants in Kentucky?
Read more about each grant below or start your 14-day free trial to see all higher education grants in Kentucky recommended for your specific programs.
What's the typical amount funded for Kentucky?
Grants are most commonly $109,567.
What's the total number of grants in Higher Education Grants in Kentucky year over year?
In 2024, funders in Kentucky awarded a total of 22,947 grants.
Among all the Higher Education Grants in Kentucky given out in Kentucky, the most popular focus areas that receive funding are Education, Philanthropy, Voluntarism & Grantmaking Foundations, and Human Services.
1. Education
2. Philanthropy, Voluntarism & Grantmaking Foundations
3. Human Services
How is funding for Higher Education Grants in Kentucky changing over time?
Funding has increased by -8.86%.
How does grant funding vary by county?
Jefferson County, Kenton County, and Fayette County receive the most funding.
| County | Total Grant Funding in 2024 |
|---|---|
| Jefferson County | $2,891,811,659 |
| Kenton County | $622,235,633 |
| Fayette County | $177,080,873 |
| Madison County | $78,275,790 |
| Whitley County | $69,351,226 |