Best Quality of Life Grants in Michigan

The Columbus Foundation

In 1943, during the darkness of World War II, a group of passionate citizens, led by Columbus businessman Harrison M. Sayre, envisioned a way to improve the well-being of the community and the quality of life in central Ohio. With little more than this sound idea and faith, The Columbus Foundation was established.

Our Mission

To assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all its residents.

Ina White Hereford Memorial Scholarship

David J. White, son; Cozine A. White Short, daughter; and Mitzi Short, granddaughter, established this fund in memory of their mother and grandmother, Ina Fern (White) Hereford. This memorial fund initially provided scholarships for students, grades 3-6, attending the Gloria S. Friend Christian Academy at Mt. Olivet Baptist Church. Beginning in the fall of 2022, the Ina Fern (White) Hereford Scholarship provides financial support to college-bound youth who are members of Mt. Olivet Baptist Church. Ina Fern (White) Hereford (1910-2000) was born in North Wilkesboro, NC, and lived in Columbus, OH for most of her life. She was a faithful member of Mt. Olivet Baptist Church for over 60 years. She served as the church clerk and for 12 years, she served as the Church Secretary. Affectionately known as “Mother Dear,” her great mission in life was to be a teacher and storyteller. She told Bible stories at the Juvenile Detention Center located at 50 E. Mound Street for more than 16 years. She exemplified a tower of faith and strength in God. All whose lives were touched by this beloved Christian woman were truly blessed. She left a legacy that is admired and remembered.

The scholarship honors her legacy – her love for God and her church, her passion for education, and her tireless effort to “put feet on her prayers.”

The Columbus Foundation

In 1943, during the darkness of World War II, a group of passionate citizens, led by Columbus businessman Harrison M. Sayre, envisioned a way to improve the well-being of the community and the quality of life in central Ohio. With little more than this sound idea and faith, The Columbus Foundation was established.

Our Mission

To assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all its residents.

Medical Mutual Scholarship Fund for Customer Schools

Education encourages ingenuity, fosters creativity, and inspires us to reach for new horizons. Medical Mutual is honored to play a role in helping prepare the young people of Ohio for a bright future. Medical Mutual is the oldest and largest health insurer based in Ohio. For 80 years, we have been serving our members and the Ohio communities where they live and work. We strive to be the health insurance choice of Ohioans and help make Ohio the best it can be.

The Banfield Foundation's Disaster Relief Grants support nonprofit animal welfare organizations and government agencies affected by natural disasters. Since 2015, the foundation has provided resources to help pets in crisis, including medical supplies, food, and temporary shelter. Grants are also available for organizations assisting those impacted by disasters. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) status and directly help animals and their owners in the U.S., ensuring that pets receive the care they need during emergencies.

The PEDIGREE Foundation offers Program Development Grants aimed at enhancing dog adoption rates by supporting shelters and rescues across the U.S. Established in 2008, the foundation prioritizes initiatives such as transport, matching, and foster programs. Funding is available to 501(c)(3) designated organizations committed to improving the quality of care for dogs and ultimately increasing their chances of adoption, ensuring that every dog finds a loving home.

The Daughters of American Agriculture Scholarship honors pioneering women in agriculture, offering two $1,000 scholarships to women or their daughters pursuing education in agricultural fields. Eligibility includes being a farmer, rancher, or related to one, demonstrating financial need, and having experience in agriculture. The Jean Ibendahl Scholarship supports young women aged 18-23, while the Sister Thomas More Bertels Scholarship is for women 24 and older. This initiative empowers the next generation in agricultural leadership.

Gibson County Community Foundation

The Community Foundation is a charitable resource devoted to our local community. We help people make meaningful gifts that improve life in Gibson County, Indiana today and for generations to come.

The Community Foundation can help you...

Make a difference where it matters

Invest in the future of the community you love

Create greater good together

Lura and Doyle Skelton Family Memorial Scholarship

Annual, renewable scholarship created by the Hillside United Methodist Church and Lawrence F. Skelton in memory of his parents.

Award Amount

• $1,680

Renewal Details

May be renewable for up to four years. Renewal applications may be considered provided the recipient continues to meet his or her college or university’s academic standards. Renewal award amounts may differ from original award. A new recipient for the award will be identified once every four years. Renewal applications will be assigned to renewal candidates in their online student account.

About Disabled Veterans National FoundationThe Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF) was established in 2007 to support veterans facing challenges that traditional systems could not fully address. From its earliest days, DVNF has been focused on closing critical gaps in care and providing resources that help veterans rebuild their lives with dignity and stability. The Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF) provides critically needed support to disabled and at-risk veterans who leave the military wounded—physically or psychologically—after defending our safety and freedom.About Comfort Kits and Grab N' Go ProgramIn addition to our direct outreach, the DVNF also supports like-minded organizations that share our commitment to serving veterans. Approved organizations can apply to receive Comfort Kits for distribution to veterans in their communities. These kits are designed to meet the unique needs of veterans and offer critical support where they are needed most.

About Disabled Veterans National FoundationThe Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF) was established in 2007 to support veterans facing challenges that traditional systems could not fully address. From its earliest days, DVNF has been focused on closing critical gaps in care and providing resources that help veterans rebuild their lives with dignity and stability. The Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF) provides critically needed support to disabled and at-risk veterans who leave the military wounded—physically or psychologically—after defending our safety and freedom.

About Grants to Provide Stability (GPS) ProgramThe Disabled Veterans National Foundation’s GPS (Grants to Provide Stability) Program is a grant program for veterans who find themselves in temporary financial setback. DVNF will provide up to $1,000 (not guaranteed) to help eligible veterans pay for rent or mortgage and essential utilities such as water or electricity. Applications are open on a monthly basis. Please note that each veteran can only be approved once per fiscal year (October – September).

The Dr. Glenn Neil Love Medical Scholarship, established in 2014, provides annual financial assistance to individuals pursuing medical training and education. It aims to support nontraditional applicants currently employed in healthcare who demonstrate financial need and a commitment to advancing their skills. Priority is given to those seeking additional certifications or training to enhance their expertise in the medical field.

The ASPCA's Rescue Effect Campaign Grants provide $1.8 million to support animal welfare organizations in the U.S. during a crucial adoption initiative. Eligible non-profits can receive funding based on their intake of adoptable pets and commitment to hold fee-waived adoption days. The program aims to promote responsible pet adoption and community involvement, making a significant impact on animal welfare during the months of August to October.

Who We Are & What We Do

On November 26, 1997, a small group of citizens with an abundance of enthusiasm embarked on a mission to secure the quality of life in our region now and forever. By yearend, they had a modest $1,050. Through commitment and vision, the Quincy Area Community Foundation expanded and grew to become the Community Foundation Serving West Central Illinois & Northeast Missouri.

Serving 12 counties on both sides of the Mississippi River, we operate as a bridge between our donors’ charitable visions and the nonprofit organizations that bring those visions to life. 

Scholarship Opportunities

Community Foundation scholarships are offered annually for high school and college students throughout our region. Each scholarship has its own eligibility requirements.

John Petty Trade School Scholarship Fund

Grants Awarded

• Spring.
• $1,000 awarded, renewable for one additional year.

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties. In 2025, more than $1,000,000 was awarded to local students to help them achieve their educational dreams.

The Don and Elsie Sickafoose Educational Trust Fund

The Don and Elsie Sickafoose Educational Trust Fund was established to assist students residing in Carroll County.

Amount:

• Varies. Minimum $500.

Renewable:

• Yes

The Zimmer Biomet Foundation, established in 2018, supports health care professionals through fellowship funding aimed at enhancing education and clinical research. This private foundation focuses on improving community health and advancing STEM education, while also promoting diversity and inclusion. Importantly, funding decisions are made independently of any commercial interests in Zimmer Biomet's products, ensuring a commitment to quality education and patient care.

The Beaufort Jasper Water & Sewer Authority Scholarship, established in 2024, offers financial support to students from Beaufort and Jasper Counties, South Carolina. This scholarship is both merit-based and need-based, aiming to assist deserving students in pursuing their post-secondary education. Funded by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, it reflects a commitment to fostering educational opportunities in the region.

The RPAC Fundraising Grants, offered by the National Association of Realtors, support state and local associations in organizing fundraising events aimed at boosting RPAC contributions. These grants require a fundraising goal three times the amount requested, ensuring tangible results. The initiative emphasizes developing detailed fundraising plans that comply with state laws regarding corporate treasury funds. This program is vital for enhancing RPAC participation and advancing property ownership advocacy.

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties. In 2025, more than $1,000,000 was awarded to local students to help them achieve their educational dreams.

The Howard and Edith Robertson Malvern Rotary Scholarship Fund

The Howard and Edith Robertson Malvern Rotary Scholarship Fund was established to assist graduating high school seniors who are residents of Brown Township in Carroll County, Ohio. 

Amount:

• Varies. Minimum $500

Renewable:

• Yes

The Lenore Marshall Poetry Prize, established in 1975, awards $25,000 to the best book of poetry published in the U.S. the previous year. It includes a ten-day residency at Glen Hollow, New York, and distribution to Academy of American Poets members. Eligible poets must be U.S. citizens or residents and submit original works published in the prior year. Self-published books and translations are ineligible, promoting excellence in contemporary American poetry.

The Bentley and Roberta Pollard Family Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of West Texas, honors the legacy of Bentley and Roberta Pollard. This scholarship supports Gold Star families and families of U.S. military veterans seeking higher education. It aims to empower students from Lubbock County high schools, emphasizing financial need and the importance of education in building a brighter future for the community. Over 100 scholarships are awarded annually to deserving individuals.

The U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation honors exceptional graduates with the Distinguished Graduate Award, recognizing their significant contributions to the nation and communities over the past 40 years. This prestigious award celebrates those who exemplify the core values of integrity, service, and excellence, serving as an inspiration for current cadets and graduates. Nomination is exclusive to U.S. Air Force Academy alumni, reinforcing the legacy of the Long Blue Line.

The U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation's Leadership Achievement Award recognizes alumni who have exemplified exceptional leadership, integrity, and character in their professional endeavors. This prestigious honor is awarded to graduates who have achieved notable accomplishments 16 to 39 years post-graduation, thereby enriching the legacy of the Long Blue Line. Nominations must be submitted by fellow graduates and reapplication is necessary for previous nominees.

The Dr. D. Walter Cohen Teaching Award, provided by the American Academy of Periodontology, offers a $10,000 grant to support new periodontal educators. This funding aims to facilitate their entry into teaching and research careers in periodontal education. Eligible candidates must be in their third year of an accredited periodontal post-doctoral training program in the U.S. and demonstrate a strong commitment to education and research in this field.

The AAP Foundation's Educator Scholarships aim to support future periodontal educators by offering financial assistance to students enrolled in U.S. periodontal postdoctoral programs. Each scholarship provides $12,000, disbursed as $4,000 annually over three years, to help cover tuition and living costs. Recipients must commit to teaching full-time at a U.S. periodontal program for each year they receive funding. This initiative fosters the growth of qualified educators in the field.

Parkview Health Foundation

The Parkview Health Foundation plays a vital role in supporting Parkview Health and its ability to provide expert, specialized healthcare to our entire region. As the area’s largest health system, Parkview Health serves a population of more than 1.3 million in northeast Indiana and northwest Ohio.

Since 1878, charitable giving has been an important part of Parkview’s ability to deliver excellent care for every person, every day. The Parkview Health Foundation helps ensure philanthropic donations are used to support Parkview patients and the community at large by enhancing the patient experience through comfort and healing.

Scholarships

Helping train and educate the next generation of Parkview caregivers is an important part of our purpose. Through the generosity of donors, we are able to offer scholarships to Parkview co-workers and area students who are pursuing their nursing degrees or EMT certifications — helping ensure the excellence in care continues.

Parkview Huntington Spirit of Service Scholarship

The Parkview Huntington Spirit of Service Scholarship – This scholarship was initially funded by a portion of a legacy gift from the Parkview Huntington Hospital Guild, which ceased operations in 2018. Scholarships have been awarded annually since 2019. The scholarship is sustained by proceeds from operation of the Parkview Huntington Hospital gift shop.

The Sullenberger Award for Courage, presented by the U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation, recognizes exemplary acts of bravery by graduates of the Academy. This prestigious award honors those who demonstrate outstanding leadership and service, reflecting the core values of integrity, service before self, and excellence. Nominations can be submitted by anyone, and the award celebrates acts that positively impact the Academy and its legacy.

Parkview Health Foundation

The Parkview Health Foundation plays a vital role in supporting Parkview Health and its ability to provide expert, specialized healthcare to our entire region. As the area’s largest health system, Parkview Health serves a population of more than 1.3 million in northeast Indiana and northwest Ohio.

Since 1878, charitable giving has been an important part of Parkview’s ability to deliver excellent care for every person, every day. The Parkview Health Foundation helps ensure philanthropic donations are used to support Parkview patients and the community at large by enhancing the patient experience through comfort and healing.

Scholarships

Helping train and educate the next generation of Parkview caregivers is an important part of our purpose. Through the generosity of donors, we are able to offer scholarships to Parkview co-workers and area students who are pursuing their nursing degrees or EMT certifications — helping ensure the excellence in care continues.

Albright Gemlick Scholarship

Beginning in 2003, the Albright Gemlick Scholarship has honored remarkable senior high school student athletes. Dr. James E. Albright was a driving force behind the establishment of the SportONE Athletic Training program in 1990. He was committed to the safety and care of student athletes, serving as a team physician for several local high schools and colleges. Dr. Brett F. Gemlick continued Dr. Albright's commitment to serving area athletic teams throughout his time as an orthopedic surgeon in Northeast Indiana.

The Albright Gemlick Scholarship is made possible by the generosity of donors through the Parkview Foundation. Up to eight scholarships can be awarded to local high school athletes annually. Award winners of this scholarship will receive four years of funding support to pursue their undergraduate degree.

Each PSM high school may nominate up to two students from their high school. Club athletic trainers may nominate up to three students from their club.

The Youth Advisory Council (YAC) Regular Grants, provided by the Barry Community Foundation, aim to fund initiatives that significantly benefit the youth in Barry County, Michigan. Grants up to $3,000 are available, with proposals due on March 15th and October 15th. Additionally, mini grants of up to $300 can be submitted year-round. This program empowers local youth by requiring that grant applications be written by youth members of their organizations, fostering leadership and community engagement.

Gibson County Community Foundation

The Community Foundation is a charitable resource devoted to our local community. We help people make meaningful gifts that improve life in Gibson County, Indiana today and for generations to come.

The Community Foundation can help you...

• Make a difference where it matters
• Invest in the future of the community you love
• Create greater good together

Sutch–Briner Memorial Scholarship

Annual scholarship created by Charles P. and Cathy J. Briner in loving memory of Pauline Hassel Briner Sutch, George Lester Sutch, and Jane McFetridge Sutch.

Award Amount

• $550