Best Grants for Community Service Projects in Massachusetts

The Forest Foundation Regional Grant supports new and emerging non-profits in Greater Boston, focusing on leadership development for undergraduate students. With grants ranging from $2,000 to $8,000, the foundation aims to assist small social service agencies that address critical needs within under-resourced communities, particularly youth and families. The application process is by invitation only, encouraging collaboration among non-profits and emphasizing direct community impact.

The Yawkey Foundation's Transformational Capital Grant provides significant funding, up to $5 million, for nonprofit organizations to enhance their mission delivery through the development of impactful physical spaces. The grants are highly competitive and require compelling proposals demonstrating project need, community support, and financial commitment. Organizations must align with the Foundation's priority Areas of Giving, primarily serving Eastern Massachusetts and Georgetown County, South Carolina. Review timeframe for proposals is approximately 12-18 months.

The Schwartz Charitable Foundation provides financial support to non-profit 501(c)(3) organizations in Worcester County and nearby areas. With average grants between $2,500 and $5,000, the Foundation focuses on various sectors including culture, education, healthcare, social services, and disaster relief. The aim is to assist deserving organizations in making a positive impact within their communities, ensuring continued support for vital local initiatives.

The Penn National Gaming Foundation Grants support various community initiatives across North America, emphasizing education, health services, and cultural affairs. Launched post-Hurricane Katrina, the foundation aids local nonprofits, enhancing community development, public safety, and veteran support. The grants cater to organizations that address the needs of children, senior citizens, and disadvantaged populations, ensuring a broad impact in areas where Penn National Gaming operates. This commitment reflects the foundation's dedication to uplifting communities and fostering resilience.

The Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation provides grants to nonprofit organizations serving Hampden County, Massachusetts. Funding areas include early education, health, economic mobility, and arts. The Foundation supports general operating, capital, program, capacity building, and emergency funding to foster community development and address pressing needs. Eligible organizations must demonstrate measurable outcomes and a commitment to sustainable change while enhancing collaboration among local nonprofits.

The Couch Family Foundation supports nonprofits in the Upper Valley and Martha's Vineyard, focusing on enhancing child and family well-being through equitable opportunities. The foundation prioritizes organizations that demonstrate strong leadership, community impact, and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Grants are available for various needs, including general operating, project funding, and capital support, with an emphasis on collaborative community change.

The Mabel Louise Riley Foundation provides grants to support low-income children and youth in Boston. With a focus on education, human services, and neighborhood revitalization, the foundation funds projects that demonstrate sustainability and community impact. Grants typically range from $50,000 to $100,000 and are available to Massachusetts-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits. Exclusions include multi-year support and unrestricted operating funds. The foundation aims to enhance the lives of vulnerable families through targeted assistance.

The Bristol County Savings Charitable Foundation has been a pillar of support for over 25 years, focusing on education, economic development, affordable housing, and critical needs sustainability. By funding diverse initiatives, the foundation aims to enhance community well-being across Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Grants range up to $10,000, with a commitment to assist qualified 501c3 organizations. This foundation's efforts are crucial in addressing ongoing challenges while fostering a more equitable environment for all residents.

The Island Foundation's Womxn and Girls Grant aims to support organizations that address the root causes of inequality for womxn and girls in the U.S. By focusing on innovative, community-driven solutions, the Foundation seeks to empower womxn and girls of color through initiatives that enhance access to healthcare, economic security, and political representation. With a commitment to systemic change, this grant fosters intergenerational collaborations and prioritizes sustainable organizations working towards gender equity.

The Cummings $30 Million Grant Program will allocate $30 million to 150 local nonprofits in the Greater Boston area in 2026. This program primarily supports organizations focused on human services, social justice, education, healthcare, and environmental initiatives. Eligible applicants must be based in specific Massachusetts counties and provide services within those areas. The program does not fund requests related to the arts, culture, or animal welfare, ensuring resources are directed to pressing community needs.

The Adelard A. and Valeda Lea Roy Foundation Grant focuses on supporting organizations in arts, education, health, and environmental sectors, especially in underserved communities in Massachusetts and Northern New England. Grants typically range from $2,500 to $10,000, with an emphasis on projects that address food security, housing, and cultural access for disadvantaged populations. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that align with its current funding priorities, particularly benefiting low-income youth, Indigenous communities, and immigrants.

The Theodore Edson Parker Foundation Grant supports a variety of community needs in Lowell, MA, focusing on children, disadvantaged young women, and the elderly. Established in 1944, it funds social services, education, and cultural programs, among others. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and not private foundations. The foundation favors projects that create equitable opportunities for underserved groups, promoting a balanced representation in community leadership. General operating costs are typically not funded.

The National Trust Preservation Funds provide grants ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 to support local preservation projects and ongoing work. These funds aim to enhance community engagement in preservation, foster technical expertise, and stimulate financial participation from the private sector. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofit organizations focused on planning and education efforts related to preservation. The program is particularly interested in initiatives that reach new audiences and further the preservation movement.

The Washington Trust Charitable Foundation offers grants to 501(c)(3) organizations in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and southeastern Connecticut. They focus on funding programs that enhance affordable housing, economic development, youth services, health, arts, and environmental initiatives. Multi-year grants may support capital projects and campaigns that directly benefit local communities. The foundation emphasizes projects that align with their mission to improve the quality of life in the areas they serve.

The Autism Community Impact Grant by the Flutie Foundation supports not-for-profit organizations that enhance the lives of individuals and families affected by autism. In 2023, the grant focuses on underserved and culturally diverse communities, funding programs that make an immediate impact. Eligible projects include educational, vocational, and recreational opportunities, as well as support services. The Foundation encourages applications that serve those profoundly affected by autism, aiming to improve their quality of life.

The Reliant Foundation Community Grants support charitable initiatives from 501(c)3 non-profits in Central and MetroWest Massachusetts. Priority is given to programs addressing substance use disorders and mental health services for youth. Collaborations aligned with Community Health Improvement Plans are encouraged. Grants are not available for individuals, for-profit businesses, or funding specific salaries. This initiative aims to enhance the health and wellbeing of all community members.

The William J. & Margery S. Barrett Fund supports innovative projects in Adams, Cheshire, and Savoy, MA, focusing on low-income and underserved populations. Established in 1995, it aims to enhance community welfare through grants to nonprofits, municipalities, and civic organizations. Eligible projects include those in arts, education, environment, and health services. The fund encourages collaboration and seeks to improve the quality of life in these communities while requiring a one-to-one match for funding.

The PLTW Launch - New Program initiative, sponsored by Burns & McDonnell, aims to enhance STEM education by providing grants to eligible schools within specific U.S. counties. Schools must implement PLTW modules over two academic years, ensuring access to real-world learning experiences for students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds. This program emphasizes the importance of empowering educators and fostering student engagement in STEM fields to prepare them for future careers.

The New England BioLabs Foundation Grant focuses on supporting nonprofit organizations that enhance biocultural diversity and ecosystem services in regions such as Central America and West Africa. Projects should aim to conserve biological diversity, sustain traditional knowledge, and promote local economic vitality. The foundation prioritizes community-led initiatives, especially in coastal communities along Massachusetts' North Shore. Those interested must first submit a letter of inquiry, adhering to specific guidelines before proceeding with full proposals.

The Massachusetts Cultural Facilities Fund Grant offers vital support for nonprofit cultural organizations to enhance their facilities. With over $9 million available for repairs, renovations, and new construction, the grant encourages projects that promote sustainability and align with the state’s net zero emissions goal by 2050. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, municipalities, and educational institutions that provide public access. The fund aims to strengthen cultural infrastructure, ensuring these facilities continue to serve their communities effectively.

The MMS&A Charitable Foundation provides organizational grants aimed at promoting equitable health outcomes for marginalized communities. They focus on funding non-profit organizations that deliver quality healthcare services to the un- and underinsured, as well as enhancing behavioral health services. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and have limited government funding. Capital campaigns, for-profit entities, and discriminatory practices are not supported. The foundation prefers innovative proposals over repeat requests, emphasizing new programs to address health inequities.

The Adelaide Breed Bayrd Foundation provides grants primarily to 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations that serve Malden and surrounding communities. Established in 1927, the foundation focuses on areas such as culture, education, healthcare, and poverty relief. Grant applications are accepted annually, with a deadline on the second Tuesday in February. The foundation emphasizes support for local initiatives that enhance community welfare and development, excluding certain categories like endowment funds and research grants.

The Chickering Foundation Grant supports programs and organizations dedicated to assisting women and children in crisis, inspired by the legacy of Hannah B. Chickering. The foundation prioritizes community-based resources in Eastern Massachusetts, fostering relationships to bridge gaps in government services. By raising awareness and addressing underserved needs, the foundation aims to enhance the quality of life for these vulnerable populations. Financial support is contingent on private funding, ensuring a meaningful impact in the lives of those served.

The Peter and Elizabeth C. Tower Foundation is dedicated to empowering children and young adults affected by substance use disorders, learning disabilities, mental illness, and intellectual disabilities. Their Programs & Services Grants support initiatives within Erie and Niagara Counties in New York and parts of Massachusetts, focusing on enhancing community capabilities and improving quality of life. Note that applications for certain grant cycles are paused for the remainder of 2025 as the foundation shifts towards emergency response funding.

The Trust for the Meditation Process offers grants focused on mindfulness and contemplative Christianity, aiming to promote health, wholeness, and inner awareness through silent practices. These grants support non-profit organizations that enhance contemplative traditions, expand mindfulness education, and connect with underserved communities. With a rich history dating back to 1986, the program seeks to foster compassion and dialogue among various contemplative practices, making a significant impact on mental and emotional well-being.

The Harold Brooks Foundation, established in 1984, supports nonprofit organizations that enhance the lives of South Shore residents in Massachusetts. Focused on five key areas—education, food and nutrition, health, housing, and mental health—the Foundation aims to address the basic human needs of the community. By funding impactful programs, it seeks to assist the underserved and improve the overall well-being of the region's residents.

The White Family Foundation provides support to non-profit organizations that enhance community engagement through art and artistic elements. Their mission emphasizes empowering individuals, fostering cultural awareness, and improving well-being through access to the arts. Organizations seeking funding should demonstrate how their programs impact lives, educate youth, and develop leadership skills. The foundation primarily serves Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts, focusing on enriching the community and promoting collaboration.