Best Lenawee County Grants for Nonprofits in Michigan

The NESOT Fall Meeting Postdoc Poster Award, established by the Society of Toxicology, recognizes Postdocs presenting posters at the Northeast Regional Chapter Fall Meeting. Eligible candidates must be NESOT members affiliated with institutions in the region, including Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont. The award of $500 will be presented at the NESOT Annual Meeting, where abstracts will be reviewed by judges prior to the event.

The NESOT Fall Meeting Student Poster Awards, presented by the Society of Toxicology, recognize outstanding student presentations at the Northeast Regional Chapter Fall Meeting. Eligible candidates include undergraduate, graduate, and post-baccalaureate students who are NESOT members. Awards include $750 for 1st place, $500 for 2nd, and $250 for 3rd, along with a separate $125 award for an undergraduate poster presentation, fostering engagement and excellence in the field of toxicology.

LeRoy T. Walker

LeRoy T. Walker (June 14, 1918 – April 23, 2012) was an icon. A noted author, professor, coach, and administrator in the disciplines of physical education and athletics, he was a barrier-breaking and remarkable human being who was dedicated to promoting and uplifting young people.

Walker was Chancellor Emeritus of North Carolina Central University (NCCU) in Durham, NC. He was elected President of the Athletics Congress (now USA Track & Field), the national governing body of USA Track & Field. Walker was elected President Emeritus of the United States' Olympic Committee (the first and only American to hold this position) and was a former president of AAHPERD (from 1977-1978, also the first African American to be elected to this position). Walker was inducted as a member into 17 Halls of Fame, awarded 16 Honorary Doctorates from a variety of institutions, and received numerous awards, including the Luther H. Gulick Award (1982), SHAPE America's highest honor.

The LeRoy T. Walker Young Professional Award

The LeRoy T. Walker Young Professional Award is given to a minority member of SHAPE America who is 36 years old or younger who has demonstrated superior promise in the areas of service, teaching, scholarship and commitment to the goals of SHAPE America focusing specifically on under-represented and/or underserved populations and promotion of diversity and inclusiveness. Not more than one LeRoy Walker Young Professional award shall be given annually.

About Us

Columbus Citizens Foundation celebrates Italian heritage and culture through a broad range of philanthropic and educational activities. The Foundation’s Scholarship program has supported thousands of deserving Italian American students, offering them a chance to fulfill their academic dreams and excel in their endeavors. Since 1929, the Foundation’s most public activity is organizing New York City’s annual Columbus Day Parade, the largest celebration of Italian-American heritage and achievement in the world. CCF offers many programs throughout the year celebrating Italian language, culture, history, and the many connections between Italy and the United States that extend across several centuries and continue to the present day.

CCF Medical School Scholarship

Since 2017, Columbus Citizens Foundation has been awarding scholarships to promising medical school students of Italian heritage. The scholarship that launched CCF’s medical school offerings in 2017 is primarily funded by, and candidates selected in partnership with, the Morgagni Medical Society, an organization founded in 1890 in order to foster the professional, intellectual, and economic development of Italian American physicians.

In 2021, CCF launched the Dr. Anthony S. Fauci Medical School Scholarship, to be awarded annually to Italian American students who exemplify the values and determination of Dr. Fauci. The scholarship supports students with great academic prowess seeking financial aid at the graduate level in medical and public health fields of study.

The USTA Player Development Excellence Grant supports aspiring U.S. tennis players by providing financial assistance based on performance and potential. Grants of up to $12,000 are awarded to players who meet specific criteria, encouraging their development into top 100 professionals. By utilizing USTA facilities and coaching, players can maximize their growth. The program aims to nurture young talent and ensure they have the resources necessary to succeed in competitive tennis.

The Julian U. Stein Lifetime Achievement Award honors a SHAPE America professional who epitomizes Dr. Stein's exemplary leadership in education, mentorship, and advocacy for individuals with disabilities. With over 45 years of dedication to the field, Julian Stein has made significant contributions through writing, public speaking, and community service. This award recognizes those who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to improving lives through physical activity and educational programming for individuals with disabilities.

Patagonia’s Corporate Grant supports grassroots organizations focused on bold, direct-action campaigns that address the root causes of environmental issues. The program emphasizes equity, inclusivity, and long-term change, targeting communities affected by environmental exploitation. Grants are awarded to innovative groups within the US and Canada, fostering civic engagement and measurable objectives. Patagonia prioritizes funding for initiatives that confront systemic bias and promote environmental justice, ensuring that diverse voices are represented in the environmental movement.

The New Music Creator Fund provides financial support to individual music creators across all genres, helping them advance their creative practice. This initiative covers costs associated with developing new work and collaborative projects. Applicants must be at least 21 years old and have three years of professional music experience. The fund aims to empower diverse music creators in the U.S. by facilitating the development of innovative musical ideas and fostering artistic collaboration.

The Music Teachers of Excellence (MToE) Award, managed by the CMA Foundation, recognizes outstanding public-school music educators. This prestigious award, with a $5,000 prize, aims to support teachers who inspire students and enrich their communities through music education. The application will open on September 3, 2025, allowing full-time music teachers with at least four years of experience to showcase their commitment and impact in the field. Stay tuned for more details!

The Special Excellence Annual Scholarship, offered by the CIRI Foundation, supports full-time students in 4-year undergraduate or graduate programs who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and community service. With awards up to $20,000 for one academic year, this merit-based scholarship emphasizes the importance of maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.7 and encourages contributions to the Alaska Native community. This initiative fosters educational success and economic self-sufficiency among Alaska Natives and their descendants.

The Raven Fund Scholarships, offered by the CIRI Foundation, support educational aspirations for CIRI voting shareholders who are not original shareholders or descendants. Award amounts include $200 per credit for full-time students, up to $3,000 per term, and similar support for part-time students. Funds cover tuition, fees, books, supplies, and housing. Applicants must have a high school diploma, be enrolled in an accredited program, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 to qualify.

The Raven Fund Jump Start Award, established by the CIRI Foundation, provides scholarships of up to $2,000 per year for CIRI voting shareholders who are high school students. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a recognized post-secondary education program, maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0. The funding covers direct educational costs such as tuition, books, and housing. The award allows for multiple applications within the year, encouraging ongoing educational pursuits.

The Subhash Sonnad Dissertation Completion Scholarships at Western Michigan University support doctoral students in the final stages of their dissertation work. This one-time scholarship of $5,000 is awarded to students who demonstrate significant progress and a commitment to completing their dissertations within 6 to 8 months. Up to three scholarships are available annually, with applications due on October 1st. This initiative aims to enhance academic success and foster timely degree completion.

The ABC Law Centers: Birth Injury Lawyers Cerebral Palsy Scholarship awards $1,000 annually to a deserving student with cerebral palsy. This scholarship aims to raise awareness about cerebral palsy and celebrate the accomplishments of individuals affected by it. Applicants must be enrolled in a U.S. higher education institution and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher. The scholarship reflects ABC Law Centers' commitment to supporting those impacted by birth injuries and ensuring their futures are secure.

The Stanley S. and Helenan S. Robin Scholarship, offered by the Department of Sociology at Western Michigan University, supports outstanding sociology and Social Psychology majors. Eligible applicants must be juniors planning to pursue a graduate degree in sociology. Interested students should apply online at Scholarship Universe by February 1. This scholarship emphasizes the university's commitment to fostering academic excellence and supporting students in their educational journeys.

The Lloyd Braithwaite Scholarship, offered by the Department of Sociology at Western Michigan University, provides $1,000 to full-time undergraduate criminal justice students with a minimum 3.0 GPA. This scholarship does not require financial need and is awarded in two installments of $500 for the fall and spring semesters. Applicants must submit a resume and three letters of recommendation by February 1st to be considered for this opportunity.

The Lanny Wilde Scholarship, offered by the WMU Department of Sociology, supports undergraduate students who are currently employed as WMU Public Safety Officers and enrolled in a Criminal Justice Program. With a total award of $500 per semester, this scholarship aims to ease the financial burden on dedicated students pursuing higher education. Nominations are forwarded by the Director of WMU Public Safety to Dr. Zoann Snyder by February 1st each year.

The Georgia E. Doles Walker Emergency Grant at Western Michigan University provides crucial financial assistance to undergraduate sociology students facing unexpected expenses. This grant, up to $500, is designed to alleviate financial burdens by covering costs for books, supplies, or travel related to education. However, it is important to note that funds cannot be used for tuition or fees. Preference is given to applicants who contribute to the diversity and multiculturalism of the university community.

The WMU Department of Political Science offers the United Nations/Kalamazoo Chapter Scholarship Award to outstanding undergraduates majoring in International and Comparative Politics. This scholarship recognizes academic excellence and considers factors like extracurricular involvement and study abroad participation. Eligible candidates must be in their junior or senior year and have completed at least one year of study at WMU. Preference is given to students with a record of activism and international engagement.

The Peter Renstrom Prize, established in 2006 at Western Michigan University, honors a senior political science student intending to attend law school. Named after Dr. Peter Renstrom, an expert in constitutional law, this award recognizes academic excellence, requiring a minimum GPA of 3.5. The prize aims to support students from any department, highlighting the university's commitment to fostering future leaders in law and public service.

The Kourdie-Elshafei Scholarship provides $2500 to undergraduate students in Western Michigan University's Political Science Department. Established by alumna Touline Kourdie Elshafei, this scholarship aims to support students with a minimum GPA of 3.15 who demonstrate financial need and have junior or senior status. Preference is given to first-generation college students and those overcoming socio-economic hardships, fostering opportunities for individuals from urban high schools.

The Dr. Claude and Nancy Phillips Dissertation Research Award at Western Michigan University provides up to $500 annually to support doctoral students in political science with their dissertation research. Applicants must submit a two-to-three page statement detailing their research plans and a budget for the intended use of funds. To be eligible, students must be in good standing and have achieved candidacy before the application deadline of February 1.

The Martin Luther King/César Chavez/Rosa Parks Future Faculty Fellowship at Western Michigan University aims to support academically or economically disadvantaged doctoral candidates in their final dissertation stage. Established in 1986, this fellowship provides financial aid averaging around $33,000 to help students complete their degrees. Recipients must fulfill a three-year teaching or administrative obligation at a postsecondary institution in Michigan, ensuring a commitment to education and community service.

The Mark Denenfeld Memorial Endowed Scholarship is awarded to outstanding undergraduate political science majors at Western Michigan University. This scholarship, established in memory of Mark Denenfeld, provides up to $500 for the academic year. Eligible candidates must be senior political science majors with a strong academic record and community service involvement. Preference is given to those with more completed credit hours in political science. Applications are accepted annually.

The Lawrence Ziring Endowed Scholarship, awarded by the WMU Department of Political Science, supports graduate students who excel academically. Established in memory of Lawrence Ziring, a distinguished faculty member, this annual scholarship amounts to approximately $1,000. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in the political science graduate program and demonstrate strong academic performance. Preference is given to MIDA program students, international students, and those with financial need. Applications are accepted through faculty nominations or self-nominations.

The Kenneth Dahlberg Endowed Scholarship, offered by Western Michigan University's Department of Political Science, supports undergraduate and graduate students in political science and environmental studies. Established in memory of Professor Kenneth Dahlberg, this annual award of approximately $1,500 emphasizes sustainability in agricultural systems and climate policy. Eligible candidates include students from relevant departments, with preference given to those demonstrating financial need. Nomination for the scholarship can be made by faculty or through self-nomination.

The John R. Borsos Endowed Scholarship, offered by the WMU Department of Political Science, supports graduate students pursuing political science. Established in memory of John R. Borsos, this scholarship awards approximately $2,000 annually. To apply, candidates must submit an essay and references, ensuring they maintain a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0. The scholarship emphasizes academic merit, with applications open to students enrolled in the graduate program for the fall semester.