Best Luzerne County Grants for Nonprofits in Pennsylvania

Let’s accelerate meaningful change!

Our mission is clear: to accelerate meaningful change through effective communication. We work through four core activities: capacity building, storytelling, services and grant support for NGOs. 

We believe in storytelling that inspires action, builds trust and promotes constructive narratives. 

CF strengthens organisations by building the skills and confidence needed to communicate effectively. 

Why a Communication Foundation?

Many NGOs and UN organisations operate with limited budgets and few staff trained in professional communication. Added to this, shifting politics and growing conservatism create new challenges for their work. To remain resilient and amplify their impact, organisations must strengthen their identity and invest in communication. 

When approached strategically, communication can shift from being a perceived obligation to a powerful opportunity. With the right focus, even limited budgets and capacity can be maximised to create and deliver clear, effective strategies unlocking advocacy, fundraising, and public trust, and ultimately driving meaningful, lasting change where it is most needed.

Storytelling Review – Master your mission’s story

Your story defines how people understand your organisation, its values and its impact. A Storytelling Review helps clarify and strengthen your narrative so it consistently reflects who you are, what you stand for and why your work matters.

CF’s Storytelling Review is a structured review of how your organisation communicates its story across channels and formats. We assess narrative structure, key messages, tone of voice, audience focus and coherence to understand whether your storytelling supports your mission and strategic positioning.

How it helps you

Dry data often fails to inspire action. This review helps you to find the "heart" of your work and communicate it in a way that sticks.

• Identification of missed opportunities for emotional engagement in your current content;
• Recommendations for moving from "organisational" talk to "human" stories;
• Advice on ethical storytelling that empowers beneficiaries rather than just portraying need;
• Guidance on structuring narratives for different platforms (web, social, reports).

What We Do

• A clear assessment of narrative strengths and gaps;
• Identification of inconsistencies and overlaps;
• Guidance on narrative frameworks and messaging;
• Provide actionable recommendations to master your story.

Why it matters

NGOs operate in complex and competitive environments, where clarity and credibility are essential. Strong storytelling:

• Builds trust and emotional connection with stakeholders;
• Clarifies your organisation’s identity and purpose;
• Strengthens recognition across programmes and campaigns;
• Supports consistent communication across teams and platforms.

Over time, stories can get fragmented or can lose their meaning. 

Different projects may tell different versions of your mission, diluting impact. 

A Storytelling Review restores focus and alignment within your communication.

Behavioral Highway Safety Grants

PennDOT’s Behavioral Traffic Safety Unit offers traffic safety grants to support local communities and organizations working to make Pennsylvania’s roads safer. Eligible applicants include local governments, universities within the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, Pennsylvania state related universities, and nonprofit organizations.

Grant opportunities focus on proven, data driven strategies that address the most urgent traffic safety challenges across the Commonwealth. Available funds are allocated using formulas based on crash data to ensure resources are directed where they can make the greatest impact.

The Behavioral Traffic Safety Unit is not permitted to fund equipment only grant requests. All funded projects must include programmatic or behavioral safety components aligned with evidence based countermeasures.

Vulnerable Road User (VRU) Education, Outreach, and Engagement Projects

Provides education on Pennsylvania’s pedestrian and bicycle laws in communities where vulnerable road users account for a significant share of crashes. Projects should also address emerging issues and incorporate education on new or recent legislation affecting VRUs. Funding may support community engagement efforts that directly involve affected populations in planning future programs. 

Behavioral Highway Safety Grants

PennDOT’s Behavioral Traffic Safety Unit offers traffic safety grants to support local communities and organizations working to make Pennsylvania’s roads safer. Eligible applicants include local governments, universities within the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, Pennsylvania state related universities, and nonprofit organizations.

Grant opportunities focus on proven, data driven strategies that address the most urgent traffic safety challenges across the Commonwealth. Available funds are allocated using formulas based on crash data to ensure resources are directed where they can make the greatest impact.

The Behavioral Traffic Safety Unit is not permitted to fund equipment only grant requests. All funded projects must include programmatic or behavioral safety components aligned with evidence based countermeasures.

Law Enforcement Liaison (LEL) Program

Provides administrative and technical support for state and local law enforcement participation in grant-funded enforcement operations in alignment with National Law Enforcement Liaison Program standards and best practices.

Behavioral Highway Safety Grants

PennDOT’s Behavioral Traffic Safety Unit offers traffic safety grants to support local communities and organizations working to make Pennsylvania’s roads safer. Eligible applicants include local governments, universities within the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, Pennsylvania state related universities, and nonprofit organizations.

Grant opportunities focus on proven, data driven strategies that address the most urgent traffic safety challenges across the Commonwealth. Available funds are allocated using formulas based on crash data to ensure resources are directed where they can make the greatest impact.

The Behavioral Traffic Safety Unit is not permitted to fund equipment only grant requests. All funded projects must include programmatic or behavioral safety components aligned with evidence based countermeasures.

DUI Courts Program

Development and facilitation of a DUI Court system, including judicial training in the area of DUI courts, establishment of new probation officers to monitor DUI court participants, and necessary equipment.

The Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) program is a federally-funded block grant that provides funds to eligible nonprofit community-based organizations or governmental entities that work to ameliorate the causes and conditions of poverty in disadvantaged and low-income communities across Pennsylvania.

PCCD Victims Compensation Assistance Program (VCAP)

The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency's (PCCD) Victims Compensation Assistance Program is designed to support individuals who have suffered physical, emotional, or financial harm due to a crime. This program offers financial aid for various expenses to help alleviate the financial burden on victims and their families.

On average, VCAP receives over 12,000 new claims and pays an average $13 million per year on behalf of crime victims. VCAP is able to reimburse insurance co-pays, out-of-network expenses and other out-of-pocket costs.

This Community Foundation was created by and for the people of Washington County MD, and exists to improve the quality of life for all of our citizens, now and for generations to come, by building community endowments, addressing needs through grant making and providing leadership on key community issues.

Washington Goes Purple Scholarship

This scholarship is open to students that reside in Washington County, MD, are continuing their education, and have been affected by substance use.

Byrne Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Single Solicitation for Local Initiatives

This 2026/27 JAG Single Solicitation for Local Initiatives requests applications from eligible governmental and non-governmental agencies and organizations seeking to implement projects and programs that directly address the objectives and goals outlined in PCCD’s approved 2026-2030 Strategic Framework. 

This Community Foundation was created by and for the people of Washington County MD, and exists to improve the quality of life for all of our citizens, now and for generations to come, by building community endowments, addressing needs through grant making and providing leadership on key community issues.

Washington County Hospital School of Nursing Alumni Scholarship

Founded by alumni of Washington County Hospital’s School of Nursing, this fund serves to provide scholarships to deserving students who are continuing their education in Nursing.

This Community Foundation was created by and for the people of Washington County MD, and exists to improve the quality of life for all of our citizens, now and for generations to come, by building community endowments, addressing needs through grant making and providing leadership on key community issues.

Washington County Arts Council, Inc. Foundation Scholarship Fund

The Washington County Arts Council, Inc. welcomes all applicants interested in pursuing a 2- or 4-year degree, or a certificate program, from an accredited educational institution with an emphasis on the arts. All students, including those individuals who have pursued a non-traditional education path, will be considered for this scholarship.

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s Bureau of Abandoned Mine Reclamation is authorized through the United States Department of Interior’s Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement to issue grants for the purpose of reclaiming abandoned mine lands (AML) and abating abandoned mine drainage (AMD) as defined in Title IV of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act.

The goals of the Program include:

• Reclaiming serious human health and safety problems resulting from abandoned coal mines.
• Completing AMD abatement and treatment projects to assist in meeting watershed restoration goals where Hydrologic Unit Plans and Qualified Hydrologic Units have been established.
• Addressing the operation and maintenance needs and/or upgrades of existing AMD treatment systems to avoid the loss of restored stream miles.
• Achieving significant, measurable water quality improvements for watershed restoration.
• Completing AMD projects with alternate or third-party funding available for the operation and maintenance of the facility

About Us

We are one of more than 750 similar tax-exempt public charities throughout the United States that work to make their community a better place to live. We are a local organization staffed by residents of the community and led by a board of trustees who have an in-depth knowledge of the issues that shape our County.

This Community Foundation was created by and for the people of Washington County MD, and exists to improve the quality of life for all of our citizens, now and for generations to come, by building community endowments, addressing needs through grant making and providing leadership on key community issues.

About Our Scholarships

Our scholarships exist thanks to local families, friends, and organizations who have partnered with the Community Foundation to memorialize or honor someone, celebrate their alma mater, or promote a chosen career field. The creation of a scholarship fund can affect the donor as much as the recipient. 

The Community Foundation of Washington County, MD offers more than 100 scholarships for graduating high school students and non-traditional students in continuing education. 

The Thomas J. Bowers Aviation Scholarship Fund

A scholarship fund created in honor of Thomas J. Bowers to provide scholarships to deserving Washington County students who are active members of the Civil Air Patrol and express a desire to pursue a degree in an aviation-related field.

The Karim Thomas Ziyad Memorial Engineering Scholarship Fund supports students from Washington County or nearby areas pursuing a career in engineering, especially in Mechanical Engineering. Established in memory of Karim Thomas Ziyad, this scholarship aims to empower deserving students to achieve their educational goals. The fund is part of the Community Foundation of Washington County Maryland, which offers numerous scholarships to enhance educational opportunities for local students.

The Carver, We’ll Find a Way Scholarship Fund, established by the Carver Family, offers scholarships to local students passionate about helping others. This fund is part of the Community Foundation of Washington County, Maryland, which manages over 100 scholarships aimed at supporting both high school graduates and non-traditional students pursuing further education. The foundation seeks to enhance the quality of life in Washington County through educational support and community engagement.

The Art Richards Scholarship Fund of Children In Need, Inc. offers scholarships to graduating clients of Children In Need, empowering them to pursue secondary education in academics or trades. Established in 1998, this fund was inspired by Art Richards' vision to uplift children living in poverty in Washington County, MD. Through local partnerships, the fund supports educational opportunities and honors community values, ensuring every child has the resources needed to thrive.

The Artist’s Palette Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Washington County, MD, supports students pursuing careers in cosmetology, aesthetics, barbering, nail technology, and massage therapy. This fund is designed to assist deserving individuals from Maryland, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania in achieving their educational goals. Scholarships are made possible by local families and organizations dedicated to enhancing community welfare and honoring significant contributions to the community. Applications open annually from January to April.

The National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) is set to release a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) focused on the ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI) of genomics. This initiative aims to explore how genomics can enhance health and well-being while addressing its broader societal impacts. The NHGRI encourages applications from diverse academic disciplines to promote innovative and replicable research approaches that effectively analyze the consequences of genomic advancements.

The Samuel Hunter Agricultural Education Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Washington County, MD, aims to support students graduating from WCPS high schools, especially those from Smithsburg High School. This scholarship is designed for students pursuing post-secondary education in agricultural fields, with a preference for FFA/4-H participants. With its commitment to enhancing local education, this scholarship not only honors community contributions but also promotes vital career paths in agriculture.

The Saint James School Scholarship Fund provides essential financial assistance to deserving students in the greater Washington County area. Established by local families and organizations, this fund aims to honor individuals and promote education. With over 100 scholarships available through the Community Foundation of Washington County, MD, it supports both high school graduates and non-traditional students pursuing continuing education. This initiative strengthens the community and fosters educational opportunities for all.

The Ryan Myers Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Washington County, MD, supports graduating seniors from various educational backgrounds in Washington County. This scholarship honors Ryan Myers' legacy, encouraging students pursuing higher education, trade schools, or apprenticeships. Ideal candidates reflect Ryan's positive spirit and aspirations, aiming to make a meaningful impact in their communities while achieving their academic and career goals.

The Rotary Club of Hagerstown Sunrise Foundation Scholarship Fund provides financial assistance to graduating high school students and non-traditional learners pursuing a degree or certificate in various fields. This initiative, supported by the Community Foundation of Washington County, aims to honor local contributions and foster educational opportunities. Applicants must demonstrate commitment to community service and leadership. Scholarships open annually in January and close on April 1st, benefiting the community for generations.

The Robert and Jenilie Palla Education Fund offers scholarships to graduating WCPS seniors who have participated in Cross Country and/or Track & Field Teams. This initiative, supported by the Community Foundation of Washington County, Maryland, aims to honor local students and encourage their academic pursuits. With a commitment to enhancing the community's quality of life, the fund exemplifies the importance of education and athletics in shaping future leaders.

The Richard and Mary Myerly Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Washington County, MD, supports low-income students pursuing careers in photography or fine arts at accredited institutions. Established in memory of Richard and Mary Myerly, this scholarship invites applications from students in Washington County and surrounding areas, promoting educational opportunities and honoring community values. With over 100 scholarships available, this initiative aims to empower the next generation of artists and photographers.

The Remsberg-Trout Scholarship Fund supports local students pursuing STEM degrees. One scholarship assists a senior from Williamsport High School, while two additional scholarships are available for graduates from other Washington County public high schools. All applicants must be members of the National Honor Society. This initiative, part of the Community Foundation of Washington County, MD, aims to foster educational opportunities and enhance the community's future.

The Quinn Alec Hoover Legacy Scouting America Scholarship Fund supports graduating seniors from Scouting America in the Mason Dixon District, encompassing Washington County, MD, and parts of Pennsylvania. Established by the Community Foundation of Washington County, this scholarship honors the legacy of Quinn Alec Hoover, aiming to recognize and assist students who embody the values of scouting. Applications open annually in January, closing by April 1st, promoting community engagement and educational advancement.

The Paul Lawson Memorial Aviation Scholarship is dedicated to supporting deserving students aged 15-25 from Maryland and West Virginia who are pursuing aviation lessons. Established in memory of Paul Lawson, this scholarship aims to empower young individuals to achieve their dreams in aviation. Offered by the Community Foundation of Washington County MD, it reflects the commitment of local families and organizations to enhance educational opportunities in the community.

The Jon Christopher Gauss, Jr. Wrestling Scholarship Fund, established by his parents, supports high school wrestlers pursuing post-secondary education at accredited institutions. This initiative, part of the Community Foundation of Washington County MD, aims to honor Jon's legacy while empowering students to achieve their educational goals. The scholarship enhances community engagement and provides vital financial assistance to promising athletes, ensuring that their dedication to wrestling translates into academic success.