Best Quality of Life Grants in Maryland

The NRF Foundation provides access to the education and opportunities needed for successful retail careers, helping people build better lives and stronger communities.

Retail Training Initiative

Building Career Pathways Through Retail Training

The NRF Foundation Retail Training Initiative expands access to industry‑recognized retail training and credentials for job seekers across the United States. Through partnerships with community‑based organizations, workforce development providers, and educational institutions, the fund equips individuals with the skills, confidence, and credentials needed to secure meaningful employment and advance in retail and related industries.

Retail is the nation’s largest private‑sector employer and offers accessible entry points, transferable skills, and clear pathways for career growth. By investing in training that aligns with employer needs, the NRF Foundation Retail Training Initiative helps individuals overcome barriers to employment while strengthening the talent pipeline for the retail industry and beyond.

Organizations selected to participate in the NRF Foundation Retail Training Initiative receive support designed to help them deliver high‑quality, employer‑aligned training programs, including:

• Access to the NRF Foundation RISE Up training and credentialing program
• Capacity awards to support program implementation and delivery
• Tools and resources to help participants earn industry‑recognized credentials

Together, these resources help organizations expand their impact and better support job seekers on their path to employment and career growth.

The Community Practice Innovation Award by the Rheumatology Research Foundation aims to foster innovative ideas from the rheumatology community that enhance practice implementation and sustainability. Grants, up to $80,000 for one year, support projects in quality improvement, implementation, and pilot studies. Recipients are expected to share findings with the broader community through presentations and disseminate tools developed with the funding. This initiative emphasizes improving patient care through effective collaboration and innovative practices.

The James Elwyn Memorial Scholarship, established in 2020, honors James Elwyn's legacy in the Wenatchee Valley swimming community. This scholarship supports graduating seniors from Chelan, Douglas, or Grant Counties pursuing further education. Applicants must demonstrate leadership, commitment to swimming, and a minimum of two years in high school swimming or USA swimming. It aims to recognize students who embody the spirit of teamwork and academic excellence inspired by James's dedication as a teacher and coach.

The Growing Convergence Research (GCR) initiative by the National Science Foundation (NSF) promotes innovative solutions to complex societal and scientific challenges through multidisciplinary collaboration. By integrating diverse expertise, GCR aims to address specific problems and foster new research paradigms. Proposals must outline a five-year plan, divided into two phases, with budgets not exceeding $1.2 million for Phase I and $2.4 million for Phase II. Successful projects are expected to lead to transformative advances in science and technology.

The Colleen Maher Inspirational Scholarship supports individuals with intellectual disabilities, aged 18-25, who are current students or graduates of Rockford Public Schools. This scholarship empowers them to pursue post-secondary education and develop skills for independent living. Inspired by Colleen Maher, who overcame challenges associated with Down syndrome, this initiative aims to ensure that others like her can access educational opportunities and work towards their dreams, fostering a more inclusive community.

The OREF/ASES Rockwood Clinical Shoulder Research Grant aims to foster innovative clinical research in shoulder care. By offering seed funding to new investigators, this grant supports promising projects that demonstrate clinical relevance and practical application. Successful completion will position principal investigators to pursue larger NIH or DOD funding opportunities, further advancing shoulder research. This initiative underscores the commitment to nurturing talent and excellence within the field.

The Experiential Opportunities Career Development Award, funded by the Society of Toxicology, provides up to $1,000 to support underrepresented undergraduate and graduate students, as well as postbaccalaureate researchers, in enhancing their education and career development in toxicology. Created in 2009, this initiative aims to promote diversity in the field. Four awards may be granted at each deadline, with funds supporting activities occurring by July 31 of the current fiscal year.

The Level 1 Fair Housing Grant, offered by the National Association of REALTORS®, supports initiatives aimed at educating REALTORS® on fair housing issues. Grants can fund classes, forums, or workshops, with a maximum award of $3,000. Starting in 2025, the grant will also support expenses related to the At Home With Diversity class to align with new training requirements. This initiative ensures REALTORS® have the resources to promote diversity and inclusion in their communities.

The Hearst Foundation: Education Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that promote education across various levels, focusing primarily on higher education. With a minimum grant size of $100,000, the foundation prioritizes organizations demonstrating significant impact and sustainability. They support innovative educational models, professional development, and scholarships, specifically targeting underserved populations. Since the 1940s, the foundation has evolved while maintaining its commitment to fostering healthy and productive lives for all individuals in the United States.

The NIH is inviting applications for interventions aimed at enhancing cancer screening and preventive services in underserved populations. This initiative focuses on addressing barriers to healthcare access and promoting timely follow-up on abnormal findings. Collaborations with community partners are encouraged to foster effective outreach. The program particularly seeks to engage patients, clinicians, and healthcare settings in improving health equity and outcomes in cancer prevention.

The David B. Perry Endowment Fund, established by the Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley, honors a dedicated community member by providing scholarships to local students. With awards typically around $1,000, this fund supports educational aspirations for residents of Kaneville and surrounding areas. It reflects the legacy of David B. Perry, who was committed to preserving his community's heritage and fostering youth engagement in philanthropy.

The Student Conference at the United States Naval Academy (NAFAC) invites Harvard undergraduates to engage in vital discussions on US foreign and international affairs. This three-day event, held in Annapolis, Maryland, gathers over 150 students nationwide to collaboratively devise solutions to pressing global challenges. The Weatherhead Center for International Affairs supports two undergraduates by covering conference fees and contributing to transportation costs, fostering academic growth and networking opportunities.

The IUSE: Innovation in Two-Year College STEM Education (ITYC) program, funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), aims to enhance STEM education at two-year colleges. This initiative encourages innovative projects that promote student success in foundational STEM courses. Eligible institutions can request up to $500,000 for three years, with an extra $100,000 for those without NSF funding in the last five years, facilitating a total budget of $600,000 for impactful educational projects.

The Mary Kay Ash Foundation Domestic Violence Shelter Grant Program supports shelters across the U.S. that provide essential services to women and children escaping abusive situations. Established in 2000, this grant aims to uphold the mission of eradicating domestic violence through financial assistance to dedicated organizations. Eligibility is limited to shelters recognized by state domestic violence coalitions, while those funded in the previous cycle are ineligible. Join the fight against domestic violence by applying for this vital support.

The FX Storytelling Legacy Scholarship, established by the United Negro College Fund, honors the renowned director John Singleton. This initiative aims to empower aspiring filmmakers and screenwriters by providing financial support of $5,000 to four selected students during their junior year, with the possibility of an additional $5,000 in their senior year. The program also includes mentorship opportunities with FX employees, fostering professional development and engagement in the film and television industry.

Small Steps in Speech is offering Individual Grants for Speech Therapy, Therapeutic Summer Camps, or Assistive Devices. Effective February 2, 2024, families with a joint household income of up to $125,000 can apply. Eligible applicants are U.S. citizens aged 3-22. Grants are not solely based on financial need, and previous grant recipients from SSIS may not reapply. Detailed eligibility and application requirements are outlined to ensure fair access to necessary support.

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Jeremy Daniel Hawley Skilled Trades and Technical Education Fund

Humility and hard work -- this scholarship was established in memory of Jeremy Daniel Hawley, who personified these two ideas. A 2001 graduate of Fredericksburg Christian High School and resident of King George county, Jeremy was admired by friends and family, fellow students and teachers for his character and integrity, his community service and his strong commitment to Christian values.

Jeremy was not known for his academic success, but rather for his strong internal compass and his drive to be successful on his own terms. He completed a community college certificate program in heavy equipment operation and began working for a builder while taking business classes at night. In less than a year he had progressed to crew supervisor in his job, but in 2003 an automobile accident took his life before he could realize his dream of running his own excavation business.

This scholarship is intended to promote hard work, skilled trades and personal character in the name of Jeremy Hawley. 

The Edwin & Lanier File Ratcliff Memorial Scholarship, administered by the Beckley Area Foundation, supports students from southern West Virginia pursuing higher education. Established to alleviate college expenses, the scholarship targets deserving individuals committed to their academic goals. The Beckley Area Foundation, founded in 1985, connects donors and community partners to enhance local initiatives, focusing on education, health, and community development. This scholarship embodies the foundation's mission to inspire charitable giving and strengthen regional communities.

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Irene Miller Memorial Nursing Scholarship Fund

This scholarship fund was created in memory of Mrs. Irene Miller of Caroline County. Mrs. Miller began her career in public health nursing in 1940 and joined the Fredericksburg Department of Health in 1948. In 1954 she became nursing supervisor for the planning district and in 1968 she went on to serve as a Virginia Regional Supervisor covering 14 counties and 4 city service areas.

By establishing the Irene A. Miller Memorial Nursing Scholarship Fund in her will, Mrs. Miller wished to support the further education of a Caroline County student or students who wish to pursue a career in nursing. 

Who We Are

We weave the work of communities, connecting and uplifting passionate people, critical resources and transformational ideas. Working side by side with every corner and sector of our region, we have identified social and economic justice as the most critical elements to a thriving community. We serve to advance efforts in these areas by fostering impactful giving, trusted partnerships and authentic engagement for a more equitable southwest Washington.

John and Maradee Potter Scholarship

Maradee Potter established this scholarship to honor her husband, John who died in 2021. John was retired from his career as a proofreader legal editor. John and Maradee were married for 36 years. Maradee is honoring her husband and her work to provide scholarships for students who have graduated from high schools located in Clark County, Washington and have been a recipient of Special Education services with a documented disability. Maradee worked in the Vancouver Public Schools as a Special Education Teacher during her career and continues to be an advocate for people with disabilities by serving on the Clark County Community Services Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board and Homes for Community Living Board. It is important to the donor that people with disabilities have equitable access to education and the support necessary to pursue post-secondary education and career training.

Award Information

The number and amount of scholarships will be determined by the scholarship committee. The scholarship may be renewable. Renewal applicants must reapply each year.

The Marshall J. Schiff, MD, Memorial Fellow Research Award, established by the Rheumatology Research Foundation, aims to support exceptional scholarship in rheumatology. This award not only honors Dr. Schiff's legacy but also recognizes fellows presenting at ACR Convergence. Recipients receive a $1,500 award plus $1,000 for travel expenses, ensuring they can attend this crucial meeting, which showcases the latest advancements in rheumatic disease research and care.

The Artists & Scholars Project Grants support individual artists and scholars residing in Montgomery County, MD, with awards ranging from $1,000 to $5,000. These grants aim to foster creativity, enhance skills, and promote diverse artistic and scholarly work. Eligible applicants must be at least 21 years old, have resided in the County for at least 12 months, and demonstrate a commitment to their respective fields. The funding period covers activities from May 1, 2026, to April 30, 2027.

The Guy P. Gannett Journalism Scholarship supports aspiring journalists through financial assistance based on need and academic merit. Students are selected for their commitment to journalism, demonstrated through coursework and activities. This scholarship, which ranges from $1,000 to $60,000, is renewable for students pursuing journalism or related fields, provided they are graduates from Maine high schools or homeschooled in Maine. Recipients are encouraged to show continued dedication to their journalism careers.

The Bicycle Advocacy Grants Program, supported by New Belgium Brewing Co, aims to foster community engagement through bicycle projects. With over $11.3 million donated since its inception in 1995, the program focuses on breaking down barriers to cycling and promoting accessibility for all. Projects targeting increased ridership and addressing systemic inequities are prioritized. This initiative reflects New Belgium's commitment to sustainability and social equity, enhancing community connections through the joy of cycling.

About

What is the Pizza Hut Foundation?

In pursuit of happiness, the Pizza Hut Franchisee community, in partnership with Pizza Hut U.S. is proud to announce the formation of the Pizza Hut Foundation.

Our foundation is seeking to touch the lives of over 100 youth annually by partnering with youth-serving nonprofit organizations focusing on literacy education programs to enable our team members and their peers to be career and life ready.

Pizza Hut Foundation, Inc. is a nonprofit, tax-exempt charitable organization under the Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Donations are tax deductible as allowed by law.

Financial Assistance & Scholarships for Education

Education is key to success in life. However, each year two million students drop out of college due to financial hardship and a lack of financial assistance. In the United States there are more than 900,000 college-bound students who qualify for federal financial assistance each year. Yet almost 90% of these students don’t receive adequate guidance or support, leaving hundreds of thousands of students’ needs unmet.

The Pizza Hut Foundation is proud to partner with Kaleidoscope as our scholarship platform provider, pairing education dreams with funding.

Mentorship Program

While the Scholarship program financially supports the awarded students enrolled in higher education, it doesn’t stop there. The Pizza Hut Foundation offers a mentorship opportunity, through leaders from within the Pizza Hut organization and Vendor partners, to engage Scholarship recipients in a meaningful way throughout their educational journey.

The Pizza Hut Foundation will support engagements with the students via monthly connections to ensure a positive experience for both the mentors and the mentees.

Society of Hospital Medicine (SHM)

The Society of Hospital Medicine (SHM) is dedicated to promoting high-value care and achieving optimal outcomes for acutely ill patients. As part of this mission, SHM seeks to address inequities in acute patient care and contribute to a greater dialogue on this important issue. As the home for hospitalists, SHM activates and engages our community to

• Advocate for our specialty, our members, and the diverse patients we serve.
• Promote high-value care and optimal outcomes for acutely ill patients.
• Meet the evolving educational needs of a dynamic specialty.
• Cultivate an inclusive community for hospitalists and support career growth and wellbeing.
• Advance the research and innovation of healthcare delivery, quality, safety, and experience across the care continuum.

Society of Hospital Medicine: Junior Investigator Award

SHM’s Junior Investigator Award was created to recognize junior/early-stage investigators. Junior/early-stage investigators are defined as faculty in the first 7 years of furthest postgraduate training. Applicants must be a hospitalist and a clinician investigator or non-clinicians (i.e., a PhD) researching Hospital Medicine relevant topics. Nominations from mentors and self-nominations are both welcome. Applicants may request feedback about their applications after adjudication of the winner. The winner will present the Junior Investigator Award commendation talk (30 minutes) during SHM Converge.

The Richard E. & Nancy P. Marriott Foundation is dedicated to uplifting communities in Washington, D.C. by supporting nonprofit organizations focused on education, human services, and employment opportunities. With an emphasis on early childhood education, mentoring, and relief from hunger and homelessness, the Foundation awards approximately 150 grants annually, totaling around $1.8 million. They prioritize partnerships that foster community strength and individual dignity, especially for vulnerable populations, ensuring access to essential resources and job training.