Best Quality of Life Grants in Maryland

Hydro Flask's Parks for All Grants offer product donations to U.S. non-profit 501(c)(3) organizations dedicated to enhancing public green spaces and recreational areas. Since its founding in 2009, Hydro Flask has supported initiatives that promote inclusivity and active lifestyles. Organizations can apply for donations in specified quantities, with applications reviewed in January and notifications sent in February. This initiative aims to foster healthier and happier communities through improved access to parks.

The Zeller Summer Scholarship in Medicinal Botany, initiated by the Garden Club of America, supports US undergraduate students pursuing summer studies in medicinal botany. Established in 2003 in honor of Caroline Brown's family, the scholarship encourages students to engage in various educational projects and internships. Eligibility includes enrollment in an accredited US college, with restrictions on international applicants. This initiative fosters knowledge in the field, promoting environmental awareness and academic excellence.

Betsy Rueb Scholarship

The late Mary “Betsy” E. Rueb created this generous scholarship through a gift from her estate. Born in 1936 in Tiffin, Ohio, Betsy moved to Columbus to attend The Ohio State University, where she met her husband, Floyd. Early in their marriage, Floyd taught Betsy about investing—a skill she quickly mastered. After many years of living simply and investing wisely, Betsy left the largest endowed gift ever received by The Columbus Foundation, totaling $55 million.

Described as charitable, modest, charming, frugal, opinionated, and intelligent, Betsy enjoyed doing needlepoint, watching golf tournaments, and meticulously tracking and researching her investments. Betsy also deeply loved children and wanted her gift to open the door to educational opportunities for young people. 

Through her wise investments and generous heart, Betsy Rueb was able to create a legacy that will provide meaningful and significant support to promising students throughout central Ohio in perpetuity.

Award Amount:

• Each award amount is determined based on the need of the recipient.

The TESOL Leadership Mentoring Program connects TESOL members with experienced leaders for mentorship and professional development. Participants receive free registration to the annual convention, up to $1,000 for lodging, and the opportunity to build lasting relationships within the TESOL community. This program is designed for members in good standing, with a preference for individuals from underrepresented groups, fostering inclusivity and active participation in the association's initiatives.

The Pittsburgh Foundation

Established in 1945, The Pittsburgh Foundation is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and as of 2022 is the 18th largest of more than 750 similar foundations across the United States.

As a community foundation, its resources comprise endowment funds established by individuals, businesses and organizations with a passion for charitable giving and fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of improving quality of life for all in the region. The Foundation currently manages about 2,500 individual donor funds and, together with its supporting organizations and its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, has assets of $1.386 billion (2022). Grantmaking benefits a broad spectrum of basic needs and development opportunities within Pittsburgh and beyond.

Scholarships

The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County provide scholarship opportunities for local students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four-year universities and career/technical schools.

Carroll A. Lambton Memorial Fund

The Carroll A. Lambton Memorial Fund was established at The Pittsburgh Foundation to provide undergraduate and graduate scholarships for the educational needs of the employees and children of employees of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) along with members and children of members of the National Contract Management Association (NCMA).

Award Type: Single Year. Previous recipients are encouraged to re-apply in consecutive years.

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.

Regional Scholarships

We believe that post-secondary education is key to healthy, resilient, and thriving communities and are pleased to partner with generous community donors to create and offer a variety of scholarship opportunities for local students across the region.

Traverse City Track Club Scholarship Endowment (Regional)

Available to graduating high school seniors or current college students from Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska or Leelanau County. Eligible students will have demonstrated involvement with running, as a high school or college athlete or through participation in organized running events.

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.

Regional Scholarships

We believe that post-secondary education is key to healthy, resilient, and thriving communities and are pleased to partner with generous community donors to create and offer a variety of scholarship opportunities for local students across the region.

Stan and Martha Scarborough Scholarship Endowment (Regional)

Available to individuals, up to 24, from Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, or Leelanau County who have aged out of foster care.

The Pittsburgh Foundation

Established in 1945, The Pittsburgh Foundation is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and as of 2022 is the 18th largest of more than 750 similar foundations across the United States.

As a community foundation, its resources comprise endowment funds established by individuals, businesses and organizations with a passion for charitable giving and fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of improving quality of life for all in the region. The Foundation currently manages about 2,500 individual donor funds and, together with its supporting organizations and its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, has assets of $1.386 billion (2022). Grantmaking benefits a broad spectrum of basic needs and development opportunities within Pittsburgh and beyond.

Scholarships

The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County provide scholarship opportunities for local students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four-year universities and career/technical schools.

Conservation Officers of Pennsylvania Scholarship Fund

The Conservation Officers of Pennsylvania Scholarship Fund was created at The Pittsburgh Foundation to provide scholarships for Pennsylvania resident undergraduate students enrolled or planning to enroll in a degree program studying the conservation of wildlife and related fields.

Award Type: Single Year. Previous recipients are encouraged to re-apply in consecutive years.

The Pittsburgh Foundation

Established in 1945, The Pittsburgh Foundation is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and as of 2022 is the 18th largest of more than 750 similar foundations across the United States.

As a community foundation, its resources comprise endowment funds established by individuals, businesses and organizations with a passion for charitable giving and fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of improving quality of life for all in the region. The Foundation currently manages about 2,500 individual donor funds and, together with its supporting organizations and its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, has assets of $1.386 billion (2022). Grantmaking benefits a broad spectrum of basic needs and development opportunities within Pittsburgh and beyond.

Scholarships

The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County provide scholarship opportunities for local students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four-year universities and career/technical schools.

Dr. Matthew R. Hadley Scholarship Fund

The Dr. Matthew R. Hadley Scholarship Fund was established at The Pittsburgh Foundation to provide scholarships awarded to one or more graduating seniors from McKeesport Area, Clairton City, Steel Valley, South Allegheny or East Allegheny High Schools.

Award Type: Single-Year Award

The NIDCR Small Grant Program for New Investigators (R03) supports early-stage scientists in dental and craniofacial research. It funds pilot studies and developmental projects aimed at generating preliminary data for future Research Project Grant (R01) applications. Key deadlines for applications include February 16, June 16, and October 16 from 2025 to 2027, addressing the need for timely submissions in this competitive funding landscape.

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.

Regional Scholarships

We believe that post-secondary education is key to healthy, resilient, and thriving communities and are pleased to partner with generous community donors to create and offer a variety of scholarship opportunities for local students across the region.

LGBTQ Pride Scholarship Fund (Regional)

Available to LGBTQ+ students and students who see themselves as LGBTQ+ allies that are pursuing post-secondary education. Graduating seniors from a public high school within Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska and Leelanau Counties are eligible to apply.

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.

Regional Scholarships

We believe that post-secondary education is key to healthy, resilient, and thriving communities and are pleased to partner with generous community donors to create and offer a variety of scholarship opportunities for local students across the region.

Katie Bigelow NP Memorial Scholarship (Regional)

Available to support single mothers who are enrolled in a post-secondary degree program and reside in Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, or Leelanau County. Preference is given to those pursuing programs in the medical or health care field.

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.

Regional Scholarships

We believe that post-secondary education is key to healthy, resilient, and thriving communities and are pleased to partner with generous community donors to create and offer a variety of scholarship opportunities for local students across the region.

Kalee Bruce Memorial Scholarship Endowment (Benzie County)

Available to graduating seniors from Benzie or Frankfort High Schools who are planning to pursue post-secondary education.

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.

Regional Scholarships

We believe that post-secondary education is key to healthy, resilient, and thriving communities and are pleased to partner with generous community donors to create and offer a variety of scholarship opportunities for local students across the region.

John S.E. Dieckman Husky Scholarship Endowment (Benzie County)

Available to graduating seniors from Benzie County Central Schools planning to pursue postsecondary education including a certificate or degree program at an accredited school. Emphasis is placed on character, citizenship, and service to the school and community. Financial need is also a consideration.

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.

Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS) Scholarships

The Community Foundation is home to a variety of scholarships designated to benefit a graduating senior from Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS). 

Jim Ooley Scholarship Fund (Central, West)

When Jim Ooley retired in 1993 after 39 years of teaching and coaching, it was his desire to establish a scholarship fund to recognize an outstanding senior student athlete whose dedication and leadership exemplifies the ideals for which Jim Ooley stood.

One scholarship is awarded annually at each Central and West.

The Sustainable Disaster-Relief Fund, established by Vanguard Charitable in 2006, aims to support communities affected by natural disasters. By providing funding for rebuilding efforts and necessary infrastructure, this initiative helps ensure that affected areas are better prepared for future disasters. Grants are available to 501(c)(3) organizations in good standing, focusing on charitable purposes like operating expenses and specific projects. The fund plays a critical role in enhancing community resilience and promoting effective disaster recovery.

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.

Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS) Scholarships

The Community Foundation is home to a variety of scholarships designated to benefit a graduating senior from Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS). 

Achievement of Excellence Award (Central, West)

Available to a graduating senior who has distinguished him/herself through academic achievement, leadership, and proven skills in the adult roles of: Citizen, Healthy & Fit Individual, Family Life Member, Life-Long Learner, and Worker.

The Enbridge Safe Community First Responder Program is designed to support emergency response organizations across Canada and the U.S. by providing grants for safety equipment, training, and educational programs. Launched in 2002, it has invested over $22 million in enhancing community safety. Eligible organizations include fire departments and medical services located near Enbridge operations. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $10,000, helping improve the capabilities of first responders in rural and underserved areas.

The Pittsburgh Foundation

Established in 1945, The Pittsburgh Foundation is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and as of 2022 is the 18th largest of more than 750 similar foundations across the United States.

As a community foundation, its resources comprise endowment funds established by individuals, businesses and organizations with a passion for charitable giving and fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of improving quality of life for all in the region. The Foundation currently manages about 2,500 individual donor funds and, together with its supporting organizations and its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, has assets of $1.386 billion (2022). Grantmaking benefits a broad spectrum of basic needs and development opportunities within Pittsburgh and beyond.

Scholarships

The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County provide scholarship opportunities for local students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four-year universities and career/technical schools.

Eugene J. Andolsek Memorial Scholarship

Eugene Andolsek was a gifted artist who used the medium of drawing to convey his struggles and insecurities, spending hours at the kitchen table with a compass, ruler, inks and graph paper creating intricate and complex pieces of art. Unable to pursue his education at a higher level due to family circumstances, Eugene felt he was denied the opportunity to reach his potential and be valued in life. Eugene was a quiet, frugal man who spent many years of his life creating pieces of art which on the surface communicate order and uniformity, whilst giving you a glimpse of the many complexities that must have existed in Eugene’s thoughts. Art was quite simply his escape. In 2005, when Eugene was 84 years of age, his work was featured in the exhibition ‘Obsessive Art’ at the American Folk Art Museum in New York, his work garnered much critical acclaim and proved to Eugene that despite being an untrained artist he was remarkably gifted and much sought after.

The Eugene J. Andolsek Memorial Scholarship is a lasting tribute to a man who valued education above most other things. From the proceeds of Eugene’s vast portfolio this memorial scholarship will enable a young student to continue their education in a way he was never able to. This scholarship has significant value and is renewable for up to 4 years of post secondary education.

Award Type: Multi-year (up to 4 years). Recipients must maintain 3.0 GPA.

The Hart Family Fund for Small Towns offers grants between $2,500 and $15,000 to support preservation projects in towns with populations of 10,000 or less. These funds aim to encourage local preservation efforts, enhance public discussion, and build technical expertise among community groups. The application process is competitive, with a review period of approximately three months. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofits, with a cash match required. Projects must start within six months of receiving funding.

The Bartus Trew Providence Preservation Fund, established by a generous gift to the National Trust for Historic Preservation, supports local efforts to acquire and preserve historic landmarks on Maryland's Eastern Shore. Grants aid in the restoration and maintenance of culturally significant sites, fostering public awareness of heritage conservation. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofit organizations capable of matching funds. This initiative prioritizes the preservation of unique local history and heritage, ensuring its continuity for future generations.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Marion Women’s Business Council Scholarship

The Marion Women’s Business Council created this scholarship fund in 2017 from member contributions to support future women in business. 

The Women’s Business Council Scholarship Fund annually awards a scholarship to a female student from a Marion County high school pursuing studies in business, finance, economics, marketing, management, advertising, accounting, human resources, or entrepreneurship.

The Berkshire Woodworkers Guild Scholarship offers financial support to aspiring professional woodworkers and designers. Established in 1998, this scholarship is funded through generous donations and proceeds from an annual silent auction. Recipients are encouraged to engage with the Guild and showcase their work at events. Preference is given to applicants pursuing comprehensive woodworking programs that lead to certification or degrees, but other professional development opportunities may also be considered.

Community Foundation of the North State

The Community Foundation builds trust through relationship, integrity, and by providing safe places for donors to give their resources.

We are a nonprofit, public charity serving the people of Shasta, Siskiyou and Tehama counties, with a mission to impact the region through the power of giving.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of the North State manages many scholarship funds that are awarded to graduating high school seniors as well as students already in an undergraduate program. Some scholarships were started by families or individuals; others by businesses or organizations. All scholarships share one important focus: helping young people reach their educational goals.

Keefer Scholarship Award

United Scholarships, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing scholarships to deserving students of the Yreka Union High School District.

Through wise investments and sound stewardship, United Scholarships, Inc. is committed to making available to graduates of Yreka Union High School District for many future years the monetary awards they will need to be successful at college.

United Scholarships, Inc. partners with the Community Foundation to offer applications for the Keefer Scholarship Award and Merit Scholarship Award.

Community Foundation of the North State

The Community Foundation builds trust through relationship, integrity, and by providing safe places for donors to give their resources.

We are a nonprofit, public charity serving the people of Shasta, Siskiyou and Tehama counties, with a mission to impact the region through the power of giving.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of the North State manages many scholarship funds that are awarded to graduating high school seniors as well as students already in an undergraduate program. Some scholarships were started by families or individuals; others by businesses or organizations. All scholarships share one important focus: helping young people reach their educational goals.

Kelly Moravec Academic Encouragement Scholarship

An award opportunity for graduating students who are dealing with, or have dealt with, a serious medical adversity.

The Kelly Moravec Academic Encouragement Scholarship, is in honor and loving memory of Kelly Moravec. Kelly Moravec was a young man who despite huge battles with medical tragedies, kept true to his academic goals and dreams. The Fund was established to honor the overcoming of medical adversities and to encourage continued education beyond high school through the awarding of scholarships, awards, and gifts for academic achievement, and the facilitation of connecting students for resource networking and peer support.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Jeannette Turner Memorial Scholarship

Dorothy Ellen Thew, a lifelong member of the Marion community, left, as part of her legacy, a gift to create three scholarship funds at Marion Community Foundation. A noteworthy person in her own right, Dorothy designated that three scholarship funds be created from her estate to honor beloved members of her family. The Jeannette Turner Memorial Scholarship, created in 2010, honors her aunt’s work as a teacher at the former Silver Street Elementary School.

The UNICO Foundation's Ralph J. Torraco Scholarship provides two scholarships of $2,500 each to students pursuing a degree. Open to all ethnicities, applicants must be U.S. citizens, attend an accredited college full-time, and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. They should continue their studies in the 2026-2027 academic year and may apply if sponsored by a UNICO chapter from specific states. This initiative underscores UNICO's commitment to supporting educational opportunities for deserving students.