Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in Minnesota

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Sidney and Adelaide Slater Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Sidney and Adelaide Slater, who established the Sidney and Adelaide Slater Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Although we were never privileged to know them, Sidney and Adelaide Slater were well aware of the Community Foundation and its ability to carry out their charitable objectives. Their will established an annuity trust for a sole beneficiary and stated that, upon the death of that beneficiary, the remainder of the estate should go to the Community Foundation to establish the Sidney and Adelaide Slater Education. This scholarship will be used to help Muskegon County's needy and deserving students attend college, ensuring that the ideals that were important to the Slaters will endure for many years to come.

The Transthyretin Cardiac Amyloidosis Fellowship, supported by Pfizer, Inc., aims to enhance training for healthcare professionals in recognizing and managing ATTR cardiac amyloidosis. This competitive program focuses on clinical practice, research, and education, fostering a deeper understanding of the condition. It specifically targets fellowship programs for Cardiologists and Advanced Practice Providers in Heart Failure, ensuring a strong emphasis on advancing knowledge and care in this critical area of cardiology.

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Shantz Kaydon Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Richard and Dolores Shantz, who established the Shantz Kaydon Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Richard Shantz, President and CEO of Muskegon's Kaydon Corporation for many years, felt strongly about college and the value of an education. In the tradition of giving back to the community and the company that was good to him, Dick Shantz and his wife, Dolores, established the Shantz Kaydon Scholarship to benefit the children and step-children of employees of Kaydon Corporation in its Muskegon locations. This scholarship award of $12,000 over four years will help to ensure that a quality education is received by children of Kaydon Corporation employees far into the future.

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Robert A. and Clara C. Harrell Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Robert A. and Clara C. Harrell, who established the Robert A. and Clara C. Harrell Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Clara is from Muskegon and her husband Bob is from East Detroit. Clara went to Muskegon Community College where she earned her Nursing degree. The Harrell's believe that education is vital and is the gateway to students becoming what they dream they can be. This scholarship is for graduating seniors of any Muskegon County High School.

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Rich McCarthy Oakridge Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Nancy McCarthy, who established the Rich McCarthy Oakridge Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Rich McCarthy knew what matters most in life. His philosophy was: "One hundred years from now, it will not matter what kind of car I drove or what kind of clothes I wore. All that will matter is that I made a difference in the life of a child." His family members, who have established the Rich McCarthy Oakridge Scholarship in his memory, say he far surpassed his goal affecting the lives of scores of young people. The teaching veteran and coach had a rich career at Oakridge as well as several other area schools. Although he struggled with severe health problems for many years he is remembered by wife Nancy as "always smiling; his greatest joy was making people laugh." The scholarship will benefit students of Oakridge Schools.

The Salad Bars to Schools Grant, initiated by the Chef Ann Foundation, aims to provide salad bar equipment to U.S. schools, enhancing children's access to fresh fruits and vegetables. Launched in 2010, this initiative tackles childhood obesity by ensuring nutritious options in school meals. Eligible applicants receive technical support and free enrollments in educational courses to maximize the impact of their salad bars. By promoting healthy eating habits, the program strives to improve children's overall health and well-being.

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Peter J. & Barbara J. Kutches Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the Barbara Kutches, who established the Peter J. and Barbara J. Kutches Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Pete and Barbara Kutches are well known figures in the Muskegon area, even though they both grew up in Escanaba. Pete was a coach in the area stretching over 4 decades at Muskegon High School, Muskegon Catholic Central, and finally Reeths-Puffer before retiring in the late 1990's. He was best known as a football coaching winning state championships as a head coach at MCC and R-P, the only coach in the state of Michigan to do so. Barbara was a nurse for several years at Mercy Hospital, serving as a time as the director of nursing. They shared 62 years of marriage, 5 children, 15 grandchildren, and soon-to-be 15 greatgrandchildren. Pete was the 10th of 13 kids in his family and the only one to go on to get a college degree because of a scholarship he was awarded. Because of this, Pete and Barbara both felt stongly that they wanted to provide that opportuntity to area youth, specifically in the areas which they felt rewarded by in their careers - education and nursing. 

The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin awards nearly $300,000 in annual scholarships to support Central Wisconsin students’ educational needs. 

The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin awards hundreds of scholarships annually to students primarily in Portage and Waushara counties who are pursuing higher education.

The Community Foundation proudly supports students in Portage and Waushara counties with over $325,000 in scholarships annually, thanks to the generosity of local individuals and families. Award amounts range from $500 to $40,000, opening doors to educational opportunities.

Whether you're a student seeking financial support or a donor looking to grow a scholarship fund, we invite you to explore available opportunities and learn how you can be involved.

COLLEGE Scholarship

Criteria for Selection:

• Financial need and community involvement.

The Nolan County Foundation Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Abilene, provides financial assistance to eligible graduating seniors from Nolan County high schools. Awards range from $500 to over $5,000 and are sent directly to educational institutions. This initiative supports various students, including those pursuing trade certifications, ensuring broader access to higher education opportunities. Applications require a completed acceptance form before payment processing in August and January.

The Margaret Wheeler Kennedy Scholarship Fund, established by the children of Margaret Wheeler Kennedy, supports graduating high school seniors who are active members of Holy Family, Sacred Heart, St. Francis, or St. Vincent Pallotti Catholic Churches in Abilene. Eligible students must rank in the top 25% of their class and have participated in religious education. Awards are sent directly to educational institutions, assisting students in pursuing their academic and career goals.

The Leo and Piney Scott Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, honors the legacy of Leo and Piney Scott, who dedicated their lives to education and community service. This scholarship supports students who have completed at least one year of higher education, maintain a 2.0 GPA, and prioritize African American students from the Big Country area. Awards range from $500 to over $5,000, reflecting the foundation's commitment to empowering future leaders.

The Four Directions Scholarship Fund for Native Students, created by Penny Gill, aims to support Ojibwe students through higher education. With a total award of $10,000 distributed over four years, the scholarship is available to enrolled members of specific Chippewa tribes who demonstrate financial need. It reflects Gill's commitment to sharing educational opportunities with her community on Madeline Island, honoring the original caretakers of the land.

The Fred C. and Mary H. Lewis Scholarship Fund supports aspiring business leaders in Duluth through financial assistance for tuition, books, and fees. To qualify, applicants must be full-time MBA students at the University of Minnesota Duluth, having graduated from Duluth, Superior, Proctor, Esko, or Hermantown, and demonstrate a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 along with financial need.

The African-American Community Foundation - Hazel Carter Scott Scholarship, established in 2006 by The Dayton Foundation, aims to support graduating high school African-American students from Montgomery County. It provides scholarships to those planning to attend a four-year post-secondary institution full-time. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and achieve at least a 21 on the ACT or its SAT equivalent, while also demonstrating financial need.

The African-American Community Foundation's Deloris L. Winslow Scholarship for Community Excellence, established in 2013 by The Dayton Foundation, supports minority students from Clark and Montgomery Counties pursuing degrees in social work, political science, counseling, psychology, or addiction treatment. The Dayton Foundation, established in 1921, aims to enhance community welfare through philanthropy, focusing on education, health, arts, and urgent regional needs. This scholarship reflects its commitment to fostering equitable opportunities and community service.

The Hazel Herring Civic Improvement Grant, established by the Woman's National Farm and Garden Association, supports projects aimed at enhancing community spaces. Eligible initiatives include community gardens, playgrounds, and beautification efforts. This grant allows members to fund new phases of ongoing projects, fostering civic engagement and improving public areas. Since its inception, the grant has evolved from an award to a funding opportunity for branches and divisions, ensuring a lasting impact on local communities.

The Hubert A. Nelson Scholarship Fund, established in honor of a distinguished Duluth native, provides financial support of up to $8,000 over four years. It is aimed at graduates from select Duluth high schools who pursue Business or Accounting at the University of Minnesota Duluth or the University of Wisconsin Superior. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, ensuring that deserving students can access quality education.

The African-American Community Foundation - Charles and Pat Meadows Scholarship, established by The Dayton Foundation, supports underrepresented students from Dayton Public, Jefferson Township, or Trotwood Public Schools. This scholarship aims to honor Charles Meadows' belief in education as a pathway to success. Eligible applicants must be high school seniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA, accepted to an accredited college, demonstrate financial need, and show participation in extracurricular activities. It fosters educational opportunities for deserving students.

The Adam Broock Scholarship, established by The Dayton Foundation, honors the memory of Adam Broock, a compassionate Oakwood High School graduate. This scholarship supports college students from Montgomery County, Ohio, who demonstrate financial need and academic success. The Dayton Foundation, founded in 1921, is dedicated to enhancing community welfare through philanthropic services and strategic grantmaking, focusing on workforce development and equitable opportunities.

Pat Gainey Student Scholarship Award

In 2006/07, through support from the Shoen Family Foundation, the Pat Gainey Student-Athlete Scholarship Award was established to recognize "Athletic Achievement and Strength of Character" annually and provide financial support for two student-athletes with a major focus on need-based applicants.

Pat Gainey, a Dunn, NC native and proponent of women's athletics, showcased a phenomenal record in women's basketball. His overall women's basketball record at Pamlico was an incredible 93-6. He then moved to Taylorsville where he coached from 1955-1964. His women's basketball teams collectively won five Western North Carolina High School Activities Association titles and at one point, recorded 54 consecutive wins and 140 straight conference victories. His overall women's basketball mark was 358-57.

Under Pat's tutelage, the Pamlico baseball teams captured 4 Seashore Conference Championships and compiled an overall record of 67-7 including 24 straight conference wins. Pat Gainey always had a great knowledge of baseball and spent the summer months scouting professional baseball prospects. Pat scouted a combined 18 years for the New York Giants and Chicago White Sox.

Award presentation: NCHSAA Annual Awards Celebration, Piedmont Hall/Greensboro; June 2026 (date TBD)

Awards

• 2, $5000

Charlie Adams Endowed Scholarship

First awarded in 2010, this scholarship honors the late former Executive Director of the Association, Charlie Adams, who was the fifth Executive Director of the NCHSAA and served from 1984 until 2010. The female award is given in honor of his daughter, Michelle, who participated in cross country at Chapel Hill on the 1984 State Championship team. The male award is given in memory of his son, C. Scott Adams, who was the first wrestler at Chapel Hill to compete in the State Wrestling Championships.

Funding sources for this scholarship include donations from individuals and athletic organizations (private donations) and interest earnings. This scholarship is awarded to one female, senior varsity cross-country athlete and one male, senior varsity wrestler at an NCHSAA member high school. Each recipient currently receives a one-time scholarship towards continuing their education.

Award presentation: NCHSAA Annual Awards Celebration, Piedmont Hall/Greensboro; June 2026 (date TBD)

Awards

• 4, $2500

The Jack and Mary Rowe Memorial Scholarship Fund honors the legacy of Jack and Mary Rowe by supporting high school graduates in Duluth, Hermantown, or Proctor who are pursuing engineering studies. This scholarship, valued at $4,500 for one year, recognizes academic excellence without considering financial need, encouraging students with a GPA of 3.9 or higher, or 3.5 in honors courses, to apply and engage in extracurricular activities.

The Dunkirk Community Funds: Ella & Irene Cunningham Scholarship, established in 1995, provides financial support to students residing within Dunkirk, IN, particularly those pursuing higher education in business or education. Preference is given to female applicants. The fund transitioned to The Portland Foundation in 2023, following the merger with The Dunkirk Foundation, continuing its mission to empower local students through educational opportunities and promote community growth.

The Dunkirk Community Funds: Dr. H. L. Shroyer Christian Love Scholarship, established in 1970, provides scholarships to high school graduates from Jay County and nearby areas who exemplify Christ’s love in their daily lives. The scholarship aims to support students who demonstrate strong moral character and faith through an essay on the significance of Christ’s love. This fund was transferred to the Portland Foundation in 2023, enhancing its mission to foster community growth and opportunity.

The Iron River Lions Club Marie Larson Scholarship Fund offers $2,000 to graduating high school seniors from public or private schools in the Iron River area. Established by Marie Larson, this fund supports students pursuing higher education, with its origins tracing back to a golf tournament begun in 2008. The scholarship honors Larson's legacy and her commitment to the community, encouraging local youth to achieve their educational goals.

Jerry McGee Endowed Scholarship

The Jerry McGee Endowed Scholarship was created in honor of Jerry McGee for his 24+ years of service as executive director of the North Carolina Athletic Directors' Association (NCADA). This award is unique in that it honors student-athletes who have distinguished themselves by overcoming adversity and returning to excel beyond expectations in their respective scholastic athletic sport(s).

Recipients of the Jerry McGee Endowed Scholarship will be eligible to apply for the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association Scholarship (NIAAA) provided each meets the criteria set forth by the NIAAA. NIAAA scholarship applications are due by May 1 to the NIAAA.

Awards

• 2, $3000

The SHAPE America: Research Fellow Program recognizes dedicated members for their significant contributions to health and physical education scholarship. Nominees must demonstrate excellence through impactful research, including a minimum of 10 peer-reviewed articles and participation in SHAPE America conventions. This prestigious designation promotes ongoing scholarship and encourages engagement within the diverse community of health and physical educators, enhancing professional practice and advancing the mission of SHAPE America.