Best Grants for Capital Funding in Maryland

The Helen M. Free Award for Public Outreach, established by the American Chemical Society, recognizes outstanding volunteer achievements in public outreach that enhance public appreciation for chemistry. Awardees, selected based on their advocacy, creativity, and impact, receive a crystal award and a $2,000 prize. Nominees must be ACS members whose volunteer efforts have significantly increased public awareness of chemistry's importance. This annual award highlights activities that engage diverse audiences, promoting the significance of chemical sciences in everyday life.

The Daryl Jones Memorial Scholarship honors a beloved coach and mentor from the Dayton area. It is designed for high school graduates who aspire to follow in his footsteps by pursuing a career in education or mentorship. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and be accepted into a two- or four-year college. This scholarship aims to support those who embody Daryl's values of community, teamwork, and dedication.

The Dan L. Hickey Memorial Scholarship, established in 1998 by his children, honors the legacy of Mr. Hickey, a U.S. Air Force veteran and educator. This scholarship supports graduating high school seniors from Dayton Public High Schools who plan to major in education, reflecting Mr. Hickey's commitment to teaching and student development. By investing in future educators, the scholarship aims to foster a new generation dedicated to excellence in education.

The Cindy Wright Memorial Scholarship, established in 2022, honors the memory of Cindy Wright, a beloved community member and family figure. This scholarship supports graduating seniors from the Miami Valley with a minimum GPA of 2.5 who are accepted into higher education institutions. Applicants must demonstrate community service, with financial need considered if qualifications are equal. The scholarship reflects Cindy's legacy of love and commitment to family and community.

The Chuck Dickerson Memorial Scholarship, established in 2018, honors an optimistic entrepreneur dedicated to community service. This scholarship supports the children and grandchildren of current or former members of the Centerville Noon Optimists, encouraging high school seniors to pursue higher education. Applicants must demonstrate commitment to community service and be accepted into a college or university. This initiative reflects Chuck's values of resilience and positivity, fostering a brighter future for young scholars.

The Charles and Jayne Black Scholarship, funded by The Dayton Foundation, supports high school seniors and current college students from the Miami Valley region who demonstrate financial need. This scholarship aids individuals in pursuing higher education at accredited institutions, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder their academic aspirations. With a focus on local students, it fosters educational growth and community development.

The Justin McCurdy Memorial Scholarship, established by The Dayton Foundation, honors the legacy of Justin McCurdy, an aerospace engineer passionate about learning and sports. This scholarship supports graduating seniors from Springboro, Centerville, or Clearcreek Township with a minimum GPA of 3.0 who demonstrate a strong work ethic and financial need. It aims to empower students to continue their education at four-year colleges, fostering both academic and athletic excellence.

The Festa Italiana Reverend Father Augustine Henry Giusani Math & Science Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports high school seniors and college students from select Connecticut towns who are majoring in math, science, or engineering. Preference is given to those of Italian descent and active members of their high school Italian Clubs. This scholarship aims to promote academic excellence while fostering cultural pride and supporting future leaders in technical fields.

The Festa Italiana Reverend Father Augustine Henry Giusani Humanitarian Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports high school seniors and college students from specific Connecticut towns majoring in social sciences. Preference is given to students of Italian descent and those affiliated with Italian organizations. This scholarship aims to promote academic excellence and cultural heritage, fostering future leaders committed to societal improvement.

The Eleanor and Nathan Berry Scholarship, offered by The Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports high school seniors from local towns who aim to pursue a full-time bachelor's degree at accredited institutions. Ideal candidates exhibit strong academic records and personal growth through meaningful activities. Preference is given to those aspiring to careers in medicine or finance, with a personal essay required for application. This initiative highlights the Foundation's commitment to education and community development.

Thomas A. & Mary Jo Russo Scholarship

Award:

• 4-year award of $5,000 per year. Students may be eligible to renew their scholarship for up to three additional years, provided they continue in the same degree program. 

The Christopher Maerz Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports graduating seniors or past graduates from New Britain or Berlin high schools pursuing a bachelor's degree in nursing or a related medical field. Applicants must maintain a C+ average and demonstrate financial need, with a preference for first-generation college students committed to healthcare. This initiative aims to foster skilled, compassionate care in the community.

The Austrian-Hungarian Singing – Sick Benefit Society Donau, Inc. Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports graduating high school seniors pursuing higher education, particularly in fields related to Austrian or German culture. Preference is given to students of Austrian, German, or Swiss-German descent or members of the Austrian-Hungarian Club. This initiative not only aids academic pursuits but also promotes cultural heritage preservation.

Thurman G. Adams and Hilda McCabe Adams Family Scholarship

Award:

• One-time award of $1,000.

The Graton Fellowship, offered by the Sundance Institute, supports Indigenous artists from California-based tribes by providing a $25,000 grant and a year of comprehensive support. This includes access to mentorship, strategic creative services, and participation in the Sundance Film Festival. The initiative aims to empower artists to share their unique stories through film, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of California Indian tribes and fostering a greater understanding of their perspectives.

The Jack and Ruth Calder Scholarship, offered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from specific local high schools who reside in particular towns. With an average award of $300, preference is given to students who are actively involved in their communities through volunteering or have received notable recognition. This scholarship is a valuable opportunity for those dedicated to making a difference.

Northern New York Community Foundation

Since 1929, the Northern New York Community Foundation has invested in improving and enriching the quality of life for all in communities across Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties.

Through partnerships with businesses and organizations, charitable foundations, and generous families and individual donors, the Community Foundation awards grants and scholarships from an endowment and collection of funds that benefit the region. Its commitment to donors helps individuals achieve their charitable objectives now and for generations to come by preserving and honoring legacies of community philanthropy while inspiring others.

Next Step Education Program

The Community Foundation’s Next Step Education Program is an ideal opportunity for students and working professionals who are pursuing career advancement and educational growth. The program aims to help individuals as they pursue postsecondary education and career training. It is designed to assist students of all ages, including recent high school graduates, adult learners, and nontraditional students, as they work to earn undergraduate degrees, professional certifications, or technical credentials that will advance their professional goals.

Whether enrolling in an accredited college, university, technical, or trade school or gaining industry-recognized certifications, the Next Step Education Program aims to help individuals achieve lasting success.

This opportunity is made possible by the generosity of donors who believe in the power of lifelong education. Their support ensures that more people in our community have access to the training and education they need to reach their goals.

Award amounts may be used for tuition, books, and course-related expense.

What educational avenues can I pursue?

The Next Step Education Program supports a wide range of educational and professional development pathways, including:

• Micro-credentials and professional certifications to strengthen skills or secure employment
• Courses or programs that lead to a degree
• Technical and trade school training for hands-on, high-demand careers
• Enhanced skills programs for career advancement or to help obtain new employment, such as Microsoft Office programs and more
• Programs at local BOCES campuses
• Professional licensing programs, including CDL and other industry-specific certifications

Pathway to Careers, a Sedona/Verde Valley CTE Scholarship Summer Courses

This fund is designed to meet the employment needs of the Sedona/Verde Valley area communities through the establishment of a new career pathway. The Fund supports any Sedona/Verde Valley high school graduate currently residing in Sedona/Verde Valley who is already attending, or plans to attend, an accredited community college or technical/vocational school in pursuit of an Associate's degree, license, or certificate.

The Frances H. Ducci Scholarship, offered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from public high schools within NCCF's 20-town service area. With awards ranging from $500 to $2,500, this scholarship aims to assist local students in pursuing their academic goals. The foundation is dedicated to enhancing community wellbeing through thoughtful grant-making and scholarship opportunities that address local needs.

The Donald F. and Norma K. Mougenot Scholarship, administered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from public high schools within NCCF’s 20-town service area. With an average award of $2,000, preference is given to past graduates of St. Peter/St. Francis School. This scholarship aims to assist students pursuing their academic goals, fostering community growth and educational advancement.

Who We Are

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area seeks to ensure that our community thrives today, tomorrow, and forever by building our Community’s Endowment to support high impact charitable projects, helping donors achieve their charitable goals, and leading and partnering in community-level initiatives.

A Thriving Community

We envision a fully thriving community where all who live or work in the Holland/Zeeland area equitably experience: physical, mental, and emotional health and safety; financial stability; high quality education; access to opportunities to achieve one’s full potential; and a sense of belonging – are respected, valued, connected and have a voice in community decisions.

Apply for Scholarships

The Woman’s Literary Club Kate Garrod Post Scholarship

The Dr. Christie L. Peterson Scholarship, administered by the Marshall County Community Foundation, aims to empower disadvantaged youth in Marshall County, aged 16 to 21, by providing annual scholarships for trade education. The scholarship is open to all eligible residents and does not require a high school diploma. It fosters community growth by connecting local students with opportunities to learn valuable skills, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.

The Culver Young Farmers Agricultural Scholarship, administered by the Marshall County Community Foundation, provides annual scholarships for students pursuing agricultural studies. This fund supports local scholars, encouraging educational growth and community involvement. Open to all Marshall County residents, the scholarship is designed to benefit both new and returning students, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder educational aspirations in the agricultural field. Applications are free, fostering access to these valuable opportunities.

The William P. and Janet C. McCormack Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports high school seniors from New Britain or Berlin who excel academically, ranking in the top 20% of their class. Eligible students must pursue a bachelor’s degree at an accredited institution and demonstrate commitment to community service. This scholarship also considers work experience and financial need, requiring a personal essay to highlight the applicant's achievements and aspirations.

The Robert D. and Dorothy M. Powers Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports high school seniors from New Britain, CT, pursuing a bachelor’s degree. This scholarship prioritizes academic achievement and financial need, ensuring that deserving students can continue their education and achieve their aspirations. With a strong commitment to community development, CFGNB aims to empower students and foster a brighter future for the region.

The George S. Souten Performing Arts Scholarship, offered by the Four County Community Foundation, supports high school seniors from Armada, Capac, Imlay City, and Romeo who plan to major or minor in performing arts. Applicants must demonstrate a strong background in the arts and submit an essay. Awardees will be recognized during the Foundation's Scholarship Celebration in May and at their respective high school awards events.

Robin V. Jensen Memorial Scholarship Fund

Robin Virginia Jensen was born on January 9, 1986, in Corvallis, Oregon to Ronald and Deborah Jensen. She was an honor roll student at Crescent Valley High School, where she excelled in volleyball, track and field, and swimming. Robin worked as a lifeguard at Osborn Aquatic center, and in her free-time enjoyed riding her bike. Robin started taking classes at Oregon State University the summer after she graduated from Crescent Valley and was enrolled to begin full-time studies at OSU in the fall. She planned to pursue a degree in forensic science and dreamed of a career in criminal justice. She had been a cadet for three years at the Corvallis Police Department.

On the evening of August 10, 2004, Robin was riding her bicycle home from work and was struck by a car. She died the next day at age 18.

Robin’s mother, Debbie Jensen, helped organize the annual Ride of Silence in Robin’s memory. The event is a silent bike ride through Corvallis meant to honor cyclists who have been killed or injured by motorists. In 2006, Robin’s parents created this scholarship fund to further honor the memory of their daughter. The scholarship provides tuition for a Benton County high school student pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree at an institution of higher education with an emphasis in Forensic Science or Criminal Justice. It also benefits the City of Corvallis Police Cadet program and supports bicycle safety programs in Benton County.

This scholarship is renewable.