Best Grants for Nonprofit Human Services in Maine

The Ludcke Foundation

Guidelines

To identify and support charitable endeavors that provide needed resources and services to children and families, with an emphasis on emotional and physical health, education, and social development.

The Foundation devotes its grants to the fields of education, health, and human services. The trustees have a special interest in programs that focus across two or three of the foundation’s areas of interest and in partnering with other donors with similar objectives to enable more ambitious projects.

Current Grantmaking Preferences

Job training for systems involved young people, job training for adults facing significant barriers, and limited support for innovative approaches to helping children in underserved New England communities overcome significant and often overlapping barriers to educational success.

Access to health programs for all ages, and behavioral health services for children and teens in underserved communities or otherwise facing significant barriers.

Homelessness prevention, housing assistance, food security, legal assistance, holistic family support, support for young people at risk, and support for victims of domestic violence.

Grants help Maine human and social service nonprofits with capital and operating needs, including health and welfare, homeless shelters, food banks, and youth and family services, with awards of US $1,000 - US $7,500. Agnes M. Lindsay Trust also supports dental health, summer camps, and related services across Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations providing human and social services in Maine can seek funding for community programs, medical needs, education, arts and culture, and environmental initiatives. The Margaret E. Burnham Charitable Trust awards US $1,000 - US $15,000 to Maine-based nonprofits located, operating, and serving within the state.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Maine can seek project support for education, human and social services, community and civic initiatives, and arts and culture programs that enhance local quality of life. Peckham Family Foundation provides funding to community-based groups in New York and New England, including Maine, through its Basic Support Grants program.

Nonprofit human and social services organizations in Maine with 501(c)(3) status can seek funding for programs in areas such as health, human services, education, and public benefit. Grants from David, Helen, and Marian Woodward Fund also support arts, environment, religion, and related charitable work across New York and the New England states, with historical preference for Connecticut.

Nonprofit human and social service organizations in Maine, along with other eligible 501(c)(3)s and public entities, can apply for Maine Community Foundation’s Community Building Grant Program, with awards up to US $10,000 for projects or general support. Funding can support new initiatives, programs, operations, and capital expenses that strengthen community resources and well-being.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Maine providing human and social services, health, education, workforce, or arts programs can apply for US $2,000 - US $25,000 to support program development, facilities, equipment, and some operations. Grants from Bangor Savings Bank Foundation prioritize initiatives that strengthen Northern New England communities and improve regional economic vitality.

Nonprofit and educational organizations supporting agricultural producers with risk management training in Maine can apply for University of Delaware’s Extension Risk Management Education projects, offering up to US $75,000. Programs must teach producers strategies in at least one of five risk areas: production, marketing, financial, legal, or human.

Nonprofit human and social services organizations in Maine addressing basic needs, health, education, or arts access for low-income youth, immigrants, refugees, Indigenous communities, or the elderly can apply for US $2,500 - US $10,000. With a mission to support community well-being, Adelard and Valeda Roy Foundation prioritizes land conservation, food security, housing, hospice, home health care, and related programs.

Nonprofit and educational organizations providing risk management education to agricultural producers in Maine can seek funding to address underutilization of Federal crop insurance. The University of Delaware’s Northeast Extension Risk Management Education Center offers up to US $100,000 for 18‑month projects focused on production, marketing, financial, legal, or human risk areas across the Northeast region.

The Como Charitable Foundation Grants support various programs in human services and education, prioritizing organizations with proven community service records. Funding is available for projects that demonstrate genuine need and a solid fundraising plan. While operating support is a lower priority, proposals are reviewed year-round. The Foundation particularly favors projects benefiting Franklin Parish and surrounding areas, with a focus on capital projects and human resource improvements that promise broad public benefits.

The Zimmerman, Edward and Beverly Memorial Scholarship Fund offers $1,000 to West Noble High School seniors pursuing higher education at a college or university, with priority given to those demonstrating community service and maintaining a GPA between 2.50 and 3.00. Preference is also given to students studying agriculture, education, social work, or accounting. This scholarship reflects the values of its donors, Edward and Beverly, who were dedicated community members and supporters of local education.

The Festus & Helen Stacy Foundation provides grants to non-profit organizations worldwide, especially those focusing on evangelism, leadership development, holistic ministries, and media outreach. Established in 1980, the foundation aims to support projects that address the needs of the marginalized and promote generous giving. Grants are typically awarded for specific initiatives in South Florida, nationally, and internationally, particularly in emerging nations. Organizations must be tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) to be eligible.

The Piñon Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) organizations and educational institutions focused on enhancing the education, health, and well-being of children and the elderly. Although it primarily funds initiatives in West Texas, the Dallas Fort Worth area, and Oklahoma City, it is open to proposals from other regions that can positively impact community growth. The foundation believes in the transformative power of education and health to foster community success and development.

The Clarence W. Winter Charitable Trust, established from Mr. Winter's Will, provides annual grants of $3,000 to $5,000 to support tax-exempt organizations focused on charitable, religious, scientific, literary, or educational purposes. While there are no geographic restrictions, the Trust prioritizes organizations in Bucks County, PA. With a commitment to community betterment, Mr. Winter's legacy continues to support impactful initiatives for years to come.

The Joan M. Wismer Foundation, established in 2001, honors the legacy of Joan Marilynn Wismer, who was dedicated to charitable work and community service. The foundation focuses on improving lives through education, youth development, safety, humanitarian services, and medical research. It primarily supports IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and churches, while emphasizing the importance of sustainable funding and effective financial management in its grant-making process.

The Harry Kramer Memorial Fund Grant supports U.S. charitable organizations that assist individuals and institutions in Israel, focusing on welfare, healthcare for the sick and aged, and education in South Florida. Founded by Harry A. Kramer, a successful entrepreneur and veteran, the fund reflects his deep commitment to charitable causes. Organizations must qualify under Section 501(c)(3) and meet specific eligibility criteria to apply for funding, ensuring that aid reaches those in need.

The James B and Lois R Archer Charitable Foundation offers Smaller Grants of $10,000 or less to support initiatives in Arts and Culture, Civic Engagement, Education, Health, and Human Services. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and comply with eligibility criteria, including a one-year waiting period for reapplications. The foundation aims to have a significant impact on communities, especially in West Texas, while avoiding funding for specific exclusions such as endowments and fundraising events.

The James B and Lois R Archer Charitable Foundation offers Large Grants for requests exceeding $10,000. Focused on fostering positive change, the foundation supports initiatives in Arts and Culture, Civic Engagement, Education, Health, and Human Services. Eligibility includes 501(c)(3) organizations, while restrictions apply to consecutive grant cycles and non-qualifying purposes such as endowments and fundraising events. Organizations are encouraged to apply for various projects to enhance community well-being.

The Andrew Burgin Charitable Trust Grant supports organizations that are exempt under Section 501(c)(3) and focuses on charitable, educational, religious, and scientific purposes. With grant sizes ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 and an annual budget of approximately $55,000, the trust primarily serves Alabama organizations. Applications are accepted year-round, but must meet specific deadlines for review. This grant offers opportunities across diverse areas such as arts, education, health, and human services.

The Slomo and Cindy Silvian Foundation Grant supports a range of subjects including education, children's welfare, medical care, medical research, and Jewish philanthropic endeavors. Established in honor of Cindy Silvian, the foundation has awarded over $30 million since 2008. Applications are by invitation only, and organizations must meet specific eligibility criteria to be considered for funding. This year, the foundation allocated over $2.4 million to more than 110 organizations, highlighting its commitment to impactful philanthropy.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) human and social service organizations, including those in Maine, can seek Strategic Impact Grants to support programs in international development, community development, education access, and LDS initiatives. The Bertin Family Foundation looks for strong governance, measurable outcomes, financial transparency, and alignment with its values, with applications accepted annually through its Foundant portal.

St. Mary's Bank Charitable Foundation Community Support Grants aim to enhance community welfare by providing financial support to nonprofit organizations. With a commitment to 'people helping people' since 1908, the foundation focuses on areas like youth programming, homelessness, and civic support. In 2023 alone, they donated over $200,000 to 190 organizations, reflecting their dedication to improving lives in New Hampshire. They prioritize funding for nonprofits within their service areas, ensuring impactful contributions to local communities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations providing human and social services in Maine communities where Athene employees live and work can seek funding for programs. With a mission to create positive social impact, Athene Charitable Foundation provides support for initiatives in education, human services, health and well-being, and environmental sustainability that align with its values.

Focused on community safety and services, Enbridge invites Maine human and social service nonprofits near its operations to apply for Enbridge Community Grants. Awards range from US $1,000 - US $10,000 to support safe, vibrant, and sustainable communities, including emergency services, youth development, social services, environmental education, and Indigenous-focused initiatives.

Nongovernmental U.S. human and social service charities, especially those serving children and people in need, can seek program funding, including for Maine communities. Nailba Charitable Foundation provides support for initiatives such as at-risk youth programs, emergency food or shelter, disability services, and mental health or substance abuse programs that are backed by a NAILBA member agency or corporate partner.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations running educational, human and social services, health, arts, or historic preservation programs may be eligible for funding that improves quality of life. Focused on societal betterment, Valley Foundation invites groups in Santa Clara County and beyond, which can include Maine-based human services nonprofits, to apply.