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Search Through Recreation Grants for Nonprofits in California

The Baldwin Hills Conservancy is inviting applications for the year-round Proposition 84 Grant Program, aimed at projects that enhance water quality in the Ballona Creek Watershed and improve access to Baldwin Hills Parklands. With $10 million allocated for such initiatives, eligible applicants include public entities and non-profits. Priority will be given to projects demonstrating urgency, innovation, and community involvement, fostering both environmental protection and public enjoyment of coastal resources.

The Community Support Grant Program by the Community Foundation of Mendocino County offers funding ranging from $500 to $1,000 for local educational opportunities and public events that benefit the community. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, tribes, and schools that serve Mendocino County residents. Grants are awarded based on alignment with the foundation's mission, community impact, planning quality, and outreach scope. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis, emphasizing the need for early submission.

The Coachella Valley - Proposition 68 Grant Program, administered by the California Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy, provides funding to public agencies, nonprofits, and tribes for projects that enhance watershed health, land conservation, and community resilience. This initiative aligns with the 2018 California Drought, Water, Parks, Climate, Coastal Protection, and Outdoor Access Act, promoting public access to parks and encouraging water conservation efforts while addressing climate change impacts.

The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.

The DanPaul Foundation aims to enhance early childhood development by training teachers and parents, protecting children from abuse, and promoting social responsibility. They provide grants to non-profits for programs that focus on education, health, and welfare of youth. Key initiatives include scholarships, environmental education, and support for underprivileged children. Grant amounts range from a few hundred dollars to $15,000 annually, with a focus on impactful, community-driven projects.

The Division of Boating and Waterways Local Assistance Grant offers funding for the installation of pumpout and dump stations in California, addressing pollution from vessel sewage. This program, established under the Clean Vessel Act, supports both public and private entities, covering up to 75% of installation costs. Eligible recipients must ensure accessibility to all recreational vessels and provide necessary signage. The initiative aims to promote clean boating practices and enhance public awareness about proper sewage disposal.

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

The Lower American River Conservancy Program, established by Assembly Bill 1716 in 2017, aims to collaborate with local agencies and nonprofits to restore and enhance the American River Parkway. Managed by the California Wildlife Conservation Board, the program focuses on improving public access to the parkway's natural and recreational resources while preserving its ecological integrity. Through funding and project support, it addresses habitat restoration and public access, fostering a sustainable environment for community and wildlife.

The Public Access Program Grants, established by the California Wildlife Conservation Board, aim to enhance public access to natural areas, promoting wildlife-oriented recreation and supporting projects that encourage hunting, fishing, and equitable access for underserved communities. By funding planning, implementation, and community outreach initiatives, the program fosters a connection between individuals, families, and the environment, ensuring that all Californians can enjoy the benefits of nature while becoming stewards of the land.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The San Joaquin River Conservancy, established in 1992, aims to preserve the river's biodiversity and cultural resources while enhancing recreational and educational opportunities. This initiative spans approximately 5,900 acres along a 22-mile stretch of the river, facilitating land acquisition and habitat restoration through the Wildlife Conservation Board. The program supports public agencies, nonprofit organizations, and tribal entities in activities such as property acquisition and habitat enhancement to ensure sustainable access and conservation of the region's natural assets.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

The Ford Family Foundation's Good Neighbor Grants aim to support rural communities by providing funding for essential programs and services. With a focus on family support, educational success, and community building, these grants help ensure that families have access to necessary resources. Grants can be used for emergencies, capital projects, and community events, with amounts up to $25,000 available. The Foundation prioritizes initiatives that foster collaboration and sustainability within the community.

The PTCF Community Impact Grant supports nonprofit organizations serving the Lake Tahoe Region. Grants focus on five key areas: well-being, education, arts and culture, environment, and community engagement. Organizations must be IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) charities or schools, incorporated in California or Nevada, and provide over 50% of their services in the Tahoe Basin. This initiative aims to foster positive community impact through collaboration and innovation.

The Pacific Power Foundation offers Community Enhancement and Environmental Respect Grants to support nonprofit organizations in the Pacific Power and Rocky Mountain Power service areas. Since 2019, the foundation has contributed over $13 million to promote community resilience, affordable housing, and environmental conservation. Eligible candidates include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and educational institutions. Grants aim to address local needs while ensuring responsible environmental stewardship, enhancing community vitality, and fostering sustainable development.

The Active Transportation Grant Program aims to promote increased use of active transportation modes, such as biking and walking, throughout California. This program consolidates various federal and state transportation efforts and allocates significant funding annually to enhance safety and mobility for non-motorized users. The ATP also focuses on advancing public health and ensuring that disadvantaged communities benefit from transportation improvements, ultimately striving to make California a leader in active transportation initiatives.

The Native Youth and Culture Fund, initiated by First Nations Development Institute, aims to empower Native youth through two-year grants ranging from $20,000 to $60,000. These funds support programs that foster leadership, cultural preservation, and intergenerational knowledge transfer. Grants will be awarded to initiatives that engage youth in structured activities, mentorship, and the revitalization of traditional practices. This investment reflects a commitment to nurturing future leaders in Native communities, ensuring their cultural heritage is honored and sustained.

Helpers Community Grants

Helpers Community cares deeply about nonprofits that enrich the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities. Helpers Community is dedicated to supporting nonprofit agencies and individuals that help those who provide residential care, recreation, and job training programs to Adults with developmental disabilities. Helpers Community grants fund 501(c)(3) organizations that serve individuals with developmental disabilities, with priority given to those in the state of California.

Organizations that qualify through their commitment to serve Adults with developmental disabilities can apply for grants for infrastructure and materials for specific programs or projects, including facility improvement projects, but not for general operating support and/or salaries.

The amount of funding requested, keeping in mind our typical grant awards range from $15,000 to $25,000, and if any other potential funders have been approached or have committed to fund a portion of this infrastructure need.

The LWCF Grants program, administered by the California Department of Parks and Recreation, aims to enhance the state's recreational, cultural, and historical resources. Established by President Johnson in 1964, the program ensures that acquired lands are protected for future generations. With ongoing funding from the Great American Outdoors Act, the initiative supports local governments and organizations in creating new parks and recreational opportunities, fostering community engagement and improving the quality of life for Californians.

The Annual Grant Cycle (2025-26) by the North Tahoe Community Alliance focuses on funding projects that enhance community vitality, economic health, and environmental sustainability in the North Lake Tahoe region. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and businesses that provide services in the area. Priority is given to initiatives that address workforce housing needs, with funding aimed at projects ready for immediate implementation. This program promotes collaboration and strategic use of Transient Occupancy Tax funds.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) Annual Grant Program supports organizations addressing critical community needs in the Greater Los Angeles Area. Since 1995, LADF has focused on education, healthcare, homelessness prevention, and youth development. The program allocates grants three times a year, promoting impactful initiatives that benefit underserved populations. LADF actively collaborates with grantees to enhance visibility and engagement, ensuring a significant difference in the lives of local youth and families.

The Explore the Coast Grants from the California State Coastal Conservancy aim to support public agencies, tribes, and nonprofits in enhancing access to California's coastal areas for communities facing barriers. This initiative prioritizes projects that facilitate enjoyable coastal experiences, reduce obstacles, and inspire stewardship among historically excluded groups. Eligible projects include transportation services, adaptive recreational activities, and community engagement events, ensuring that all Californians can connect with their coastal environment.

The Lahontan Community Foundation Fund Grants aim to support non-profit organizations enhancing the Truckee and North Tahoe Region. Founded in 2002, the foundation fosters community engagement through fundraising and grants. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations with at least two years of tax-exempt status that serve the local community in areas such as arts, education, environment, and health. Applications for religious activities or those promoting discrimination will not be considered.

The Impact100 Sacramento Grant Program empowers women to become philanthropists by providing transformational grants of at least $100,000 to nonprofits in the greater Sacramento area. Organizations can apply under five focus areas: Arts & Culture, Education, Environment, Family, and Health & Wellness. Eligible nonprofits must be tax-exempt, serve local residents, and have a minimum operating budget of $350,000. Grants must be utilized within 24 months, targeting underserved populations and addressing community needs.

The Community Ties Giving Program by Union Pacific Foundation offers local grants aimed at enhancing community well-being through diverse funding priorities. These include safety initiatives, workforce development, community vitality, and environmental sustainability. The program emphasizes supporting organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to create impactful projects that resonate with Union Pacific's heritage and mission. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations serving Union Pacific communities and demonstrate a clear need and capacity to deliver effective programming.

The Anderson Children's Foundation, established in 1970 by Irene W. Anderson, aims to address the unmet needs of children of diverse backgrounds in the Coachella Valley, California. The foundation encourages nonprofit organizations to apply for funding to support initiatives in health, education, recreation, and the arts. With a commitment to nurturing young people, ACF welcomes proposals that align with its mission to inspire and uplift the youth in the community.