Best Lake County Grants for Nonprofits in Florida

About The Community Foundation

The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties is a community-based social impact investor whose mission is to engage, invest, and lead—working toward a vision of community vibrancy with opportunity for all. Our team of experienced staff and dedicated trustees is committed to boldly leading and supporting transformational community investments. We channel charitable contributions from donors through nonprofit partners that are meeting current community needs and steward community resources responsibly to ensure greater capacity for the future.

Adirondack League Club Scholarship

Established by Adirondack League Club to award scholarships to students in the Central Adirondack region of the Adirondack Park.

Candidates are identified by a committee.

Napa Valley Community Foundation

There are more than 800 Community Foundations in the US, each devoted to a specific region. We operate independently, with a common goal in mind: to be a platform for local people who want to pay it forward. To deliver resources to effective charitable programs. And to make our communities stronger and more successful by doing these two things.

Among our peers, Napa Valley Community Foundation ranks first on several key measures of donor satisfaction and impact, according to a recent donor survey conducted by the Center for Effective Philanthropy. Our donors say that we deeply understand their interests, and deeply understand the needs of Napa Valley. That, in a nutshell, is our job.

Dr. Rick Bachman Memorial Veterinary Medicine Scholarship

The Dr. Bachman Memorial Scholarship Fund celebrates the life of Dr. Richard Wayne Bachman, DVM, a distinguished veterinarian and beloved mentor. Affectionately known as “Dr. B” by colleagues and “Ricky” to friends, his commitment to animal welfare extended beyond his role as Lead Veterinarian at Napa Humane. He was notably involved in their weekend Wellness Clinics, serving the underserved, low-income, Spanish speaking community. Dr. Bachman was also deeply invested in the education of future veterinarians and vet technicians. This fund reflects his dedication to animal health, community service, and the nurturing of upcoming veterinary professionals.

The Dr. Rick Bachman Memorial Veterinary Medicine Scholarship Fund is made possible by Napa Humane and benefits current or former residents of Napa County, Solano County, or Lake County. This scholarship is geared towards veterinary students who are committed to practicing companion animal veterinary medicine and plan to give back to their community after graduation. Recipients must attend an accredited veterinary college or veterinary technology program and will receive funding for up to two years while working to complete their degree.

Franklin's Friends offers Animal Welfare Grants to support local nonprofits and government agencies in Central Florida. Our mission emphasizes shelter and rescue, spay and neuter, and community education. We aim to assist organizations that can demonstrate financial responsibility and align with our mission. Eligible applicants must be local 501(c)(3) entities or government agencies, ensuring funds are used for the intended purposes to continue vital animal welfare efforts.

Our Mission

Our mission is to serve as the connection between our community and public education, evaluating needs and securing resources to enhance the quality of education.

Originally established in 1987 as the Dial-A-Teacher program in Lake County, Florida, by local business leaders in collaboration with the Lake County School District. The primary objective was to provide homework assistance to students, particularly those facing academic challenges. In 1988, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization was renamed the Education Foundation of Lake County, Inc. This rebranding marked a broader commitment to enhancing public education in the community. Today, the foundation continues to serve as a vital link between the community and public education, offering various programs and initiatives to support students and educators throughout Lake County. We are a member of the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations.

Teacher Grants

Each year, the Education Foundation funds projects that directly support students, teachers and classrooms in the Lake County School District. We’re especially excited to back initiatives focused on:

• Career & technical education
• Graduation and literacy improvement
• Financial education
• STEM programs
• Support for struggling students

Are you a teacher or support staff member with an innovative project idea that needs funding? The Education Foundation works with our community of supporters to help make that idea a reality. Through our easy-to-use online grant application, educators are encouraged to submit their proposed ideas to secure funding. 

For grants over $2,000, applicants need to get approval from their Principal and the Superintendent (or her designee). 

For Curriculum or Capital Expenses? Get approval by your Media Specialist and Principal.

The SECO Energy Foundation Grant aims to improve community quality of life through charitable initiatives. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, it supports educational, environmental, energy-related, veteran, public safety, and health projects. Grants are available in two tiers: Community Grants, up to $25,000, and Mini-Grants, up to $5,000. Eligible organizations must serve SECO territories in Florida and meet specific criteria, ensuring that funding directly benefits local residents.

The Orlando Magic Youth Foundation (OMYF) aims to empower at-risk children in Central Florida through funding programs that focus on arts, education, health, and homelessness. Over its 35-year history, OMYF has distributed over $30 million to local nonprofits and hosts community fundraising events. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)3 status, serve youth or families in specific counties, and demonstrate strong measurable outcomes. Ineligible requests include capital campaigns and public schools.

The UACF Operating Support Grants offered by United Arts of Central Florida provide essential funding to nonprofit cultural organizations that have been operational for at least three years. These grants aim to enhance the diversity of cultural experiences available to the Central Florida community, recognizing the importance of arts and culture. Eligible organizations must have a 501(c)(3) status and meet specific criteria, including a commitment to public programming and equal opportunity in employment.

About Us

Bay Area Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization created by and for the people of the Bay Area. We offer a range of flexible giving tools to help our donors make a positive impact on the community and causes that align with their interests and passions. In addition to first-rate donor service, we manage our community’s permanent endowment and award grants to address the community’s most pressing needs and promising opportunities.

Since 1982, our community has used our resources to make charitable gifts more effective. We provide maximum flexibility in establishing, managing, and distributing your gifts. Through our donors’ generosity, we can help support arts and culture, community initiatives, education and youth, environment, health and wellness, human services, and recreation in our area.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Regional Scholarship

Inspired by the belief that love and peaceful protest can eliminate social, political, and economic injustice, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., became this nation’s most heralded civil right leader. He aroused blacks and whites alike to protest racial discrimination, war, and poverty. A champion of nonviolent resistance to oppression, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964. Dr. King’s life ended at the age of 39 on April 4, 1968, when he was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee. However short his life was, he greatly advanced the cause of civil rights in this nation. His life serves as an encouragement to each of us to do all that we can to end injustice.

The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Regional Scholarships are awarded each year to Bay County high school seniors (regardless of ethnicity) who actively embrace Dr. King’s dream of improving racial harmony and social justice. The scholarship award(s) will be at least $1,000 and are non-renewable. The scholarship award(s) will be presented at the annual Great Lakes Bay Regional Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration program held each January.

This scholarship is also available to Midland and Saginaw County students through their respective community foundations.

The Rapier Education Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports high school seniors and college students pursuing degrees in the USA. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and be enrolled full-time. The fund covers tuition, fees, and books, and is renewable for up to three years. Since 1964, the foundation has awarded millions in grants to enhance community living through education and other initiatives, making a lasting impact on the San Antonio area.

The Community Foundation of South Lake County Scholarship supports non-traditional students pursuing education at Lake-Sumter State College. Established in 1995, the foundation aims to enhance educational opportunities and promote community development. Award amounts can reach up to $1000 per year, with a focus on those who demonstrate financial need and reside in South Lake County. This scholarship fosters personal growth and allows recipients to reapply for future funding cycles.

The Don Wickham Memorial Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of South Lake County, supports residents pursuing degrees in Nursing or Health Care. This need-blind scholarship honors Don Wickham's commitment to community health and welfare. With a focus on educational empowerment, it opens doors for students at accredited vocational-technical schools, community colleges, and universities. Donations help continue his legacy of improving healthcare access in South Lake County, benefiting both students and the broader community.

The Frank B. Farr Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of South Lake County, provides financial assistance to students who have a connection to Groveland High School. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA and can reapply for up to three years while enrolled full-time. This scholarship supports educational pursuits at various accredited institutions, promoting academic and vocational opportunities within the community.

The Judith Hovis Nursing Scholarship, established by Denise in memory of her mother, supports aspiring nurses who are also parents. Funded by the Community Foundation of South Lake County, this scholarship reflects its mission to enhance educational opportunities and foster community growth. The foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has been active since 1995, connecting resources with philanthropic efforts to strengthen South Lake County. This scholarship honors Judy's legacy while empowering future nursing professionals.

The Bill Hayes Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Educational Foundation of Lake County, supports graduating seniors from Lake County Schools pursuing careers in culinary arts or hospitality. With a GPA of 2.5 or higher, applicants must provide proof of enrollment in a culinary program. This scholarship aims to empower students financially, enabling them to achieve their educational goals and contribute to their communities.

The Dodge Fund Scholarship, established by the Education Foundation of Lake County, supports two graduates from Eustis, Mount Dora, or Tavares High School, one focused on Performing Arts and the other on Visual Arts. Applicants need a minimum GPA of 3.0 and must be actively involved in their chosen art discipline during high school. This scholarship empowers students to pursue higher education, facilitating access to college or vocational training, with awards ranging between $500 and $20,000.

The Edmond Amateis Foundation Scholarship supports Lake County seniors demonstrating financial need and maintaining a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Established by the Educational Foundation of Lake County, it is part of a broader mission to enhance public education through various initiatives. Annually, scholarships ranging from $500 to $20,000 are awarded to empower students in pursuing post-secondary education, thus contributing to their academic and professional success.

The Herbert Lehner Charitable Trust Vocational Scholarship supports Eustis, Mount Dora, or Tavares High School graduates pursuing vocational education at Lake Technical College. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher, and submit a 250-word essay along with a photograph. Scholarships range from $500 to $20,000, empowering students to achieve their educational goals and enhancing workforce readiness in the community.

The Lake Sumter Lions Club Scholarship supports students from Leesburg High School, Wildwood Middle High School, and The Villages Charter High School, encouraging academic success and community involvement. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher and provide documentation of their community service. This scholarship is part of a broader mission by the Educational Foundation of Lake County to enhance public education and empower students to pursue post-secondary opportunities.

Our Mission

Our mission is to serve as the connection between our community and public education, evaluating needs and securing resources to enhance the quality of education.

Originally established in 1987 as the Dial-A-Teacher program in Lake County, Florida, by local business leaders in collaboration with the Lake County School District. The primary objective was to provide homework assistance to students, particularly those facing academic challenges. In 1988, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization was renamed the Education Foundation of Lake County, Inc. This rebranding marked a broader commitment to enhancing public education in the community. Today, the foundation continues to serve as a vital link between the community and public education, offering various programs and initiatives to support students and educators throughout Lake County. We are a member of the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations.

Scholarships

Scholarships play a pivotal role in empowering students to pursue post-secondary education like a college or university degree, vocational credentials, or certifications. In partnership with our donors, the Education Foundation of Lake County offers scholarships based on academic achievement, talent and financial need. Annually, we award scholarships ranging from $500 to $20,000 to graduating Lake County seniors.

Mike Stone Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship will be awarded to graduates from Eustis, Leesburg, Mount Dora and Tavares High School. Applicants must be actively involved in the community, an essay should be included describing applicant’s volunteer activities and why they feel it is important to volunteer. Applicants must have a 2.5 or higher GPA.

The Dale A. Nordquist Family Scholarship, offered by the St. Croix Valley Foundation, supports students from Clayton, Amery, or Clear Lake High Schools pursuing degrees or training in tech or trade fields. With a commitment to fostering local talent, this scholarship aims to empower future generations by investing in their education and career aspirations. The Foundation has a rich history of connecting local generosity with impactful initiatives that enhance community well-being across the St. Croix Valley.

The June G. Patton Memorial Graduate Scholarship, established by the Ashland University Rho Nu at Large chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International, honors Dr. June G. Patton's legacy in nursing education. This scholarship supports graduate students with a BSN pursuing advanced degrees in nursing. Active members of Rho Nu at Large are eligible to apply, and past recipients may reapply. Most awards are designated for Ashland County residents, contributing to the community's educational advancement.

The Mary Eleanor Morris Scholarship, established by the estate of Mary Eleanor Leonard Morris, supports educational opportunities for graduating seniors from Logan County, Ohio. This scholarship reflects Morris's enduring commitment to community service, benefiting students from various local high schools. Eligible candidates must not hold significant national scholarships and must plan to attend an accredited educational institution in the U.S. This initiative aims to empower local youth and foster their educational aspirations.

The Amy Heryford Ousley and James Heryford Ousley Educational Fund, established in 2005, provides scholarships to Klamath and Lake County students attending nonprofit colleges in the U.S. The fund, initially valued at $6.5 million, has awarded over $2.5 million in scholarships. Eligible students must have attended a Klamath County high school for four years, maintain a minimum GPA, and enroll as full-time students. Scholarships can reach up to $3,000 annually for up to five years.

Community Foundation of Northern Nevada

Established in 1998 as a Nevada nonprofit 501(c) 3 Corporation, the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada has distributed more than $200 million in grants and scholarships from over 300 charitable funds to strengthen our Nevada home. 

Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Northern Nevada’s Scholarship Program is intended to help students cover the ever-increasing cost of tuition. Some of our scholarships are based on financial need, but others represent an award for achievement. These scholarships typically go to students who have excelled in an academic area or have shown they can balance academics, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities. There are also scholarships designated for students who have overcome adversity, students pursuing degrees in high-need areas, and adult learners outside the traditional college age group. Community Foundation scholarships can help cover tuition, books, and on-campus housing.

John R Stockman Scholarship

The John R. Stockman Scholarship was created to provide a life-advancement opportunity to an ambitious, driven young person who may require financial assistance to achieve higher education.

The Community Foundation of South Lake County offers the CFSLC Community Impact Grants to support local non-profits in various focus areas such as affordable housing, education, and health. With over $9 million granted in the past 27 years, the foundation emphasizes the importance of serving residents in the South Lake County tax district. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and a minimum of three years of program data to apply for funding.

The Women’s Giving Alliance of South Lake, part of the Community Foundation of South Lake County, aims to inspire women to become strategic philanthropists. This initiative focuses on improving the lives of women and children in South Lake County through innovative solutions and measurable impacts. Local nonprofits are encouraged to apply for grants that will facilitate systemic change and address critical needs within the community. This program seeks to create a lasting positive influence on those served.

The CFSLC Small Grant by the Community Foundation of South Lake County aims to enhance community welfare by supporting nonprofit organizations that serve the residents of the former South Lake County tax district. Eligible applicants must be IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) entities with a budget not exceeding $3 million and a commitment to sustainability. The grant focuses on connecting resources, empowering local initiatives, and fostering lasting impact in Clermont, Groveland, Mascotte, Minneola, and Montverde.