Best Volunteer Grants in Michigan

The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation aims to enhance the educational, economic, cultural, and religious lives of Michigan residents. Grants are made exclusively to 501(c)(3) or governmental organizations in Michigan. The foundation seeks proposals with clearly defined objectives and strong management, prioritizing innovative programs that can achieve long-term sustainability. Collaborations that foster synergy towards common goals are encouraged, while support is not extended to discriminatory or political organizations.

Honda’s Community Event Sponsorship aims to support local, regional, and national events that enhance community engagement and celebrate diverse cultures. Organizations must be U.S.-based and tax-exempt, focusing on projects that serve communities where Honda associates are active. Eligible events include parades, festivals, and educational initiatives. Honda evaluates requests based on community needs and available funding, reinforcing its commitment to social responsibility and community enhancement.

Grantmaking

Funding Rooted in Relationships

Our grantmaking supports the work that helps people, families, and neighborhoods build healthy, equitable communities, across generations. It is strategic, relationship-centered, grounded in trust, and shaped by ongoing learning with our community partners.

We focus on work that addresses root causes, strengthens community-led solutions, and builds long-term capacity in Kalamazoo County.

Strategic Pillars

Our strategic pillars are based on what we’ve learned from community, nonprofit and elected leaders. We all share the vision for a Kalamazoo County that includes:

The Service Club Alliance Grant, initiated by the Exchange Club of Midland, Michigan, is designed to enhance collaboration among local service clubs. This unique partnership streamlines the grant application process for nonprofit organizations in Midland County, ensuring that essential resources are allocated effectively. Organizations can submit applications freely, with their proposals reviewed collectively by all participating clubs, fostering impactful community support and engagement.

The ACCF Youth (TAG Team) Grants support youth development initiatives in Allegan County, inviting high school students to represent their peers through the T.A.G (Teens Aiding Growth) Team. This funding opportunity prioritizes programs that enhance early childhood education, promote mental and physical health, and support youth-led social change. Grants are available for 501(c)3 non-profits and governmental units, ensuring they meet specific eligibility criteria to benefit local youth aged 0-19.

The Art and Mary Schmuckal Family Foundation, established in 1999, aims to support charitable organizations in the Grand Traverse region. It honors the philanthropic legacy of Art and Mary Schmuckal, who dedicated their lives to community service. The foundation is managed by a volunteer board consisting of family members and friends, ensuring a commitment to wise stewardship of its resources. It welcomes applications from 501(c)(3) organizations throughout the year, focusing on making a meaningful impact in the community.

The Corporate Giving Program by the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation focuses on supporting nonprofit organizations within specific states. They prioritize initiatives that enhance community welfare, especially in agriculture, education, health, and environmental sustainability. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status to apply, and preference is given to those involving Perdue associates. Ineligible requests include those from religious, political, or individual-focused groups. This program emphasizes broad community benefits over organizational affiliations.

The NRA Foundation: Michigan Grants provides vital financial support for educational and public service programs related to shooting sports. The foundation focuses on promoting firearms safety, educating individuals about firearms history, and conducting research to enhance firearms safety techniques. Eligible organizations include government entities and recognized nonprofits, while discrimination based on protected characteristics is prohibited. This initiative aims to foster community engagement through grants that benefit youth and promote responsible firearm use.

The Capital Region Community Foundation offers Mini-Grants of up to $5,000 to 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations and eligible entities for projects benefiting residents of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties, Michigan. Emphasizing diversity, the Foundation seeks applications from small and mid-size nonprofits that promote equitable access to services. Eligible projects include programming, operations, or ongoing initiatives, with a focus on underserved communities. Licenses may be required for solicitation, and certain ineligible requests apply.

The Capacity-Building Grants from the Capital Region Community Foundation aim to enhance the sustainability and effectiveness of eligible nonprofits in Michigan. These grants provide essential support for internal system improvements, enabling organizations to achieve their missions more effectively. Applicants must have a minimum annual budget and paid staff to qualify. The grants are designed to foster partnerships between the Foundation and grantees, focusing on critical areas like board development, fundraising planning, and equity training.

The AABE National & Regional Scholarship, awarded by the American Association of Blacks in Energy, supports students pursuing careers in the energy sector. Annually, over $350,000 is distributed through multiple scholarships, including six regional awards of $3,000 and one national award of $5,000, renewable for up to four years. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate commitment to energy-related fields, promoting diversity and equity in education.

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

A.C. “Kate” & Leo Joseph Merlone Scholarship Fund

Kate and Leo Merlone understood the value of education, both in formal academia and through any media that would expand a person’s mental horizons.

Commitments to family obligations in their youth did not allow them to continue their formal education to the extent that they had desired. Instead, throughout their lives, they chose self-education through books, travel, museums, volunteer involvement in the community and always good conversations.

They passed on this message of self-education to their children, even as they encouraged them to pursue a higher education. Their strong work ethic and efforts to constantly improve themselves have been a wonderful example for their children and grandchildren.

The Berrien Community Foundation's "For Good" Grants support community projects in Berrien County, Michigan. These grants are available in two sizes: Major grants ($1,501-$15,000) and Minor grants (up to $1,500). Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) entities, schools, and government or religious organizations. The foundation prioritizes programs that are innovative, sustainable, and address critical local needs while fostering collaboration among community groups.

The Evans Graham Preservation Award, established in 1998, supports the preservation of historic architecture in Michigan through $30,000 in annual funding. It honors David Evans, a noted preservation architect, and is awarded based on project merit by a jury. Eligible projects must be led by IRS-qualified nonprofits and involve an AIA Michigan architect. Applications open yearly on January 1st, with a submission deadline of March 17th, promoting creativity, community benefit, and preservation excellence.

The Built to Play Skatepark Grants, funded by the Tony Hawk Foundation, aim to support the creation of free, public skateparks in low-income communities across Southeast Michigan and Western New York. With grants up to $250,000, the program emphasizes community involvement, environmental sustainability, and accessibility. It prioritizes projects designed by experienced contractors that engage local skaters in leadership roles. This initiative reflects a commitment to fostering healthy lifestyles and combating childhood obesity through active play.

The Alger Regional Community Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations in Alger County to enhance quality of life through various programs. With a focus on charity, education, health, and youth development, the foundation encourages innovative projects that meet community needs. Grants typically do not exceed $2,500 and are awarded based on the potential impact and collaborative efforts of applicants. The foundation prioritizes youth involvement, ensuring future generations benefit from its initiatives.

The Capital Region Community Foundation offers Impact Grants to enhance the long-term effects of organizations serving Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties in Michigan. These grants focus on projects that foster collaboration among nonprofits, address the needs of under-served populations, and create sustainable community change. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and other qualified entities. Applications require a preliminary submission and a 1:1 cash match, emphasizing transformative initiatives rather than ongoing operational support.

The Heart of Cook Grants support non-profit organizations, schools, and government units in furthering education, enhancing human services, and protecting the environment within Southwest Michigan and Northwest Indiana. With funding priorities focused on skill development, community independence, and environmental restoration, the grants aim to foster local leadership and innovative solutions. Eligible applicants may submit one application per cycle, with particular attention given to measurable outcomes and projects addressing emerging community needs.

The Ethel and James Flinn Foundation aims to enhance mental health services in Michigan through its Capacity Building & Advocacy Grants. These grants, up to $50,000, support non-profit organizations in improving service quality and expanding access. The Foundation prioritizes collaboration, equity, and dignity, fostering initiatives that reduce stigma and enhance treatment practices. By integrating mental health into primary care and advocating for policy changes, the Foundation seeks to empower underserved communities and promote a holistic approach to mental health care.

The Jeremiah Lucey Grant Program, managed by the Leary Firefighters Foundation, supports paid and volunteer fire departments across the US, focusing on training, equipment, and technology enhancements. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $25,000, with larger amounts occasionally available. Departments must demonstrate proactive problem-solving efforts. The Foundation prioritizes partnerships aimed at achieving impactful results, particularly in response to emergencies caused by natural or man-made disasters.

The AAACF Community Grantmaking Program aims to promote equity in education and reduce racial and economic disparities in Washtenaw County. Established in 1963, the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation supports nonprofits and scholarships, focusing on literacy for marginalized youth, mental health services, and empowering programs. By engaging community-based organizations, AAACF fosters impactful partnerships to enhance the quality of life and build a sustainable future.

The Youth Impact Grant, administered by the Jackson Community Foundation's Youth Advisory Committee, aims to support youth-focused initiatives in Jackson County, Michigan. It provides funding to 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and government entities that create positive impacts on local youth. This grant not only benefits the community but also empowers student volunteers by enhancing their leadership skills and philanthropic experience. Applications for projects that cater to youth needs are currently being accepted.

The Aspirus Scholars Program, developed by Aspirus and community partners, addresses healthcare needs in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Michigan. This initiative offers scholarships up to $175,000 to medical students at the MCW-CW Campus in exchange for a service commitment with Aspirus. The program aims to alleviate the debt burden of future medical providers while fostering a commitment to primary care and community connection, ensuring quality healthcare for generations to come.

The Horizon Bank Community Grant Program aims to enhance local communities by funding initiatives in education, arts, and economic development. With grants starting at $5,000, the program supports 501(c)(3) organizations addressing housing needs for low- to moderate-income families. Applications are accepted annually, with a strong emphasis on corporate citizenship and community involvement. However, grants are not available for political activities or organizations that discriminate. This commitment reflects Horizon Bank's dedication to fostering community growth and responsibility.

Experience Support Grant Program

The Experience Support grant program provides arts and culture-related project funding to Michigan organizations for which arts and culture is not the primary focus of the organization’s mission. Eligible applicants include municipalities, tribal entities, PreK-12 schools, colleges/universities, and non-arts/culture 501(c)(3) nonprofits. Applicants can submit one grant application to request funding in any/all of these categories: Project Support, Facility Enhancement & Equipment Purchase, Professional/Organizational Development and Field Trips.

Professional & Organizational Development

Professional/Organizational Development funding is designed to assist an organization in providing arts and culture-related educational opportunities that increase the knowledge and skills of the organization’s personnel. Only staff members, contracted employees, board members, and/or volunteers may be selected to participate in the organization’s Professional/Organizational Development request.

• Allowable Expenses:
  • Registration fees directly related to an in-person or virtual professional development opportunity including conferences, training, or certification
  • Consultant fees directly related to organizational development opportunities including strategic planning, coalition building, fundraising planning, needs assessment, grant writing, and board governance
  • Travel (in OR out-of-state) including meals and lodging
  • Materials directly related to the professional development opportunity

The Baltimore Life Community Grants Program, established by the Baltimore Life Foundation, awards grants of up to $500 to nonprofit organizations in various states, including Maryland and Virginia. This initiative aims to enhance community quality of life through projects that focus on family safety and community enhancement. Eligible applicants must be IRS-certified 501(c)(3) organizations, with priority given to those with volunteer support. This program reflects Baltimore Life's commitment to corporate citizenship and community involvement.