Best Grants for Community Centers in Missouri

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Kelsey Family Scholarship for Nursing and Biomedical Engineering

This scholarship was established by Rick and Darla Kelsey in memory and patrimony of Richard and Greta Kelsey and their ancestors. For six generations, the Kelsey family farmed in the Kansas River Valley near Topeka. They were active in Freemasonry and devoted to charitable work and service to their church and community.

This is a one-time award. Students can reapply annually to be considered for a scholarship.

The Starseed Foundation Grant offers support to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on enhancing the arts, environmental protection, literacy, and social services. Grants are available to organizations throughout the United States, with a specific emphasis on programs based in Oregon. Interested parties must first submit a Letter of Inquiry to be considered for funding. This initiative aims to improve the quality of life for underserved communities through cultural and educational enrichment.

The Mabee Foundation provides challenge grants for projects in Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arkansas, Missouri, and Kansas, primarily focusing on construction, renovation, and major medical equipment purchases. Organizations must raise 40% of project costs from other donors before applying. Grants can reach up to 20% of total costs, with a maximum of $2 million. Applications are considered quarterly, requiring submissions by specific deadlines for review at upcoming board meetings.

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation 

The Greater Kansas City Community Foundation is a nationally respected leader in charitable giving, dedicated to improving quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing philanthropy, educating and connecting donors to community needs, and leading on critical local issues. Founded in 1978 with a simple belief that charitable giving should be accessible to all, the Foundation has grown into one of the largest and most innovative public charities in the country, offering donor advised funds and other giving vehicles that make philanthropy convenient, efficient, and impactful. Today, it manages more than $7 billion in assets, administers over 7,000 charitable funds, and has distributed more than $8 billion in grants, consistently ranking among the top community foundations nationwide.

R. E. (Rosey) Roseberry and Eileen E. Roseberry Scholarship Fund at the College of the Ozarks

R. E. (Rosey) Roseberry and Eileen E. Roseberry Scholarship Fund provides scholarship support to residents of Kansas or Missouri who are enrolled as full time students at the College of the Ozarks in Point Lookout, Missouri. Eligible applicants must have been residents of Kansas or Missouri for at least ten years at the time of application and must maintain continuous enrollment with a minimum 2.5 GPA to remain eligible. Scholarship award amounts vary, recipients may reapply in subsequent years, and the fund is administered through the Franklin County Community Foundation, supporting students in pursuing their postsecondary education.

Simmons First Foundation: Mini Grant

Amount:

• $1,000 up to $2,500 
•  Projects must pertain to youth (K-12) in the fields of education or health care. Mini Grants are for immediate (long-term) needs for programs and entities must be a 501c3 organization.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Harley and Geneva Anderson Memorial Scholarship Fund

This fund was established in memory of Harley and Geneva Anderson by their Family to provide academic scholarships for students to/from the Kansas City area and Scandinavia.

The California Casualty Music & Arts Grant supports K-12 public schools facing budget cuts that threaten their music and arts programs. Eligible applicants, who must be active employees of public K-12 schools and members of specified educator associations, can request grants of $250 for music or arts needs. This initiative aims to enhance creative education across the states, excluding AK, HI, MA, MI, NY, and WI. Applications received by July 15 will be notified by November 30.

Simmons First Foundation: Make a Difference Grant

Amount:

• $2,500 up to $50,000

For the upcoming grant cycle, funding will be limited to programs focused on:Special Education:  K-12 Youth with disabilities, including physical disabilities, developmental and cognitive disabilities, and sensory impairments.   (examples including):

• Inclusive theater and performing arts programs
• Adapted, hands-on STEM learning
• Accessible coding, robotics, and maker-space activities
• Science-based learning adapted for diverse abilities
• Assistive technology and adaptive learning tools
• Adaptive physical education and recreation programs

Substance Abuse and Violence Prevention:  K-12 Youth (examples including):

• Evidence-based prevention programs targeting alcohol, opioids, vaping, and other substance use
• Skill-building programs that focus on refusal skills, decision making, coping strategies, and peer pressure resistanc
• Early intervention programs for at-risk youth
• Recovery support services for youth in early recovery (including peer support groups, mentoring, and relapse prevention planning)
• Youth-focused programs that teach emotional regulation, anger management, and non-violent communication
• Intervention programs for youth exposed to or at risk of violence
• Peer mediation and restorative justice programs that reduce disciplinary incidents and promote accountability

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Tony DiPardo Instrumental Music Foundation Scholarship

The Tony DiPardo Instrumental Music Foundation and Scholarship Fund was established in honor and memory of instrumental music leader Tony DiPardo to support students pursuing instrumental music education at the college or university level and also programs that enhance and encourage students’ appreciation for instrumental music.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

reJOYCE KC Foundation Scholarship Fund

The purpose of this fund is to honor all those in the profession of nursing. In addition, recognizing the legacy of Joyce Ann Maurer whose dedication and passion for her patients, family, and advancement in nursing education paved a trailblazing path for others to follow. This fund will assist students pursuing higher education to become an RN, BSN, or NP.

Simmons First Foundation: Environmental Grant

Amount:

• $2,500 up to $25,000

These funds are to be used for conservation and/or environmental purposes. We prefer the projects support the overall theme of youth (K-12) in the fields of education or health care, however, we do have flexibility on projects that will have an indirect impact on youth. Categories for this grant include, but not limited to: water, air, hunting/fishing, forestry, outdoor education, energy, etc.

The Elevance Health Foundation's Behavioral Health Grant aims to address significant challenges in mental health and substance use disorders. With a commitment of up to $90 million over three years, the Foundation seeks partnerships with nonprofits to enhance treatment access, promote prevention strategies, and alleviate loneliness among affected individuals. This initiative emphasizes innovative solutions and measurable outcomes, targeting both national and local programs, particularly in states with pressing health disparities.

The WGPF: Legends & Lore Marker Grant Program celebrates and promotes local folklore, legends, and folklife as vital aspects of cultural heritage. Targeted at 501(c)(3) organizations and government entities across 14 US states, it aims to enhance cultural tourism by commemorating community stories. Successful applications typically focus on folktales, historical legends, and community traditions, while excluding purely literary works or personal folklore that lacks broader community significance.

The FDC Foundation, established in 2008, is a private non-profit dedicated to providing grants to 501(c)(3) public charities across three main areas: Health & Nutrition, Education, and Housing. The foundation supports initiatives that improve nutrition, assist diabetic individuals, enhance early childhood development, and promote housing opportunities for those in need. However, it does not fund for-profit entities or international organizations, nor does it provide grants for specific excluded purposes.

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. 

Forty and Eight Scholarship

This fund was established by World War I Veterans to provide academic scholarships to individuals obtaining a nursing or medical degree. Forty and eight refers to forty men and eight horses/mules to a French train boxcar during World War I.

Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis and disbursed in August. 

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers Adult Literacy Grants to support organizations providing essential literacy services to adults. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for programs in Adult Basic Education, GED preparation, and English language acquisition. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and libraries located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store. The foundation aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster personal growth through literacy.

The Indian Environmental General Assistance Program (GAP), administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), provides crucial funding to tribal governments and intertribal consortia for developing environmental protection programs. Since 1992, GAP has focused on remediation of pollutants and, more recently, supports climate adaptation initiatives. The program emphasizes tribal sovereignty while aiding in capacity building, policymaking, and establishing joint EPA-Tribal Environmental Plans to effectively address environmental challenges faced by tribal communities.

The E.B. Henderson Award, presented by SHAPE America, honors minority members who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to scholarship, mentorship, and advocacy for ethnic minorities within health and physical education. Established in 1885, SHAPE America serves over 200,000 professionals, promoting high-quality education standards. The award recognizes individuals who have significantly contributed to increasing the participation of underserved populations in the field. Limited to two awards annually, it highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in health education.

The Aloyce and James Barnhill Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, supports a graduating high school senior or undergraduate student pursuing education at Mineral Area College, Three Rivers College, or Southeast Missouri State University. This $900 scholarship requires applicants to demonstrate financial need through a FAFSA-SAI form and submit a personal essay. It aims to alleviate financial barriers for students aiming for higher education in Missouri.

The Giving Branch Scholarship, funded by Flat Branch Mortgage, Inc. employees, aims to support working adults in pursuing higher education within the communities served by Flat Branch. This scholarship offers financial assistance ranging from $500 to $5,000, targeting individuals aged 25 and older who meet specific employment, residency, and academic criteria. By investing in education, the Giving Branch Foundation seeks to empower local residents and contribute positively to the community.

The Arthur G. Tesar Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides two renewable $2,000 scholarships for graduating high school seniors planning to attend Missouri State University or Ozarks Technical Community College. Applicants must have a GPA between 2.5 and 3.0, be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours, and demonstrate financial need. Required application materials include a transcript, personal essay, and details of community service involvement.

The Gabby Girls Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides a $550 grant to female undergraduate students in Missouri entering their third or fourth year at a four-year accredited college or university. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, demonstrate financial need through FAFSA-SAI, and submit a transcript, personal essay, and details about their community service and work experience. This scholarship aims to support women's education and empowerment.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

AABE William Grant Pinkard Scholarship Fund

The American Association of Blacks in Energy (AABE) is a professional organization of African Americans in the energy industry. Through its Scholarship Program, AABE seeks to help increase the number of African Americans, Hispanics and Native Americans (underrepresented minorities) in energy related fields. By doing so, we help our nation address a critical need and a challenge to our future economic vitality in the world market.

About William Grant Pinkard II

The William Grant Pinkard Scholarship Fund was named after a member of the Kansas-Missouri Chapter of the AABE who best exemplified the organization’s purpose and goals. William Grant Pinkard, II was a dedicated and active member.

Awards

The Kansas-Missouri Chapter of AABE will award one scholarship of $2,000 per semester paid in August and January. Awards of $1,500 per semester will be issued to community college students. The top winner’s application is forwarded to compete for one of six National AABE Regional Awards of $3,000 per year. Additionally, a “Rufus D. Gladney” Premier Award of $5,000 is given annually to the candidate who is judged to demonstrate the most outstanding achievement and promise. National Awards are made to the students upon presentation of proof of enrollment at an accredited college or university. Distribution of local chapter awards are made at the discretion of the local chapter upon proof of enrollment at an accredited college or university. A William Grant Pinkard Scholar may renew the scholarship for a second year provided documentation that all scholarship guidelines and criteria have been sustained.

The James Craig Carr Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides a $3,000 grant to high school seniors or undergraduate students who have participated in the Lost and Found Program in Springfield, Missouri. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5, demonstrate financial need, and plan to attend an accredited institution. Required documentation includes a transcript, an essay, and details of community service and work experience.

The James P. Robinson Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides a $900 grant to undergraduate students majoring or minoring in Religious Studies at Missouri State University–Springfield. Applicants must have completed or be currently enrolled in REL 131 or REL 332, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, and submit an official transcript, personal essay, and a recommendation letter from a Religious Studies faculty member.

The CHS Foundation's Cooperative Education Grant aims to support educational projects that enhance understanding of the agricultural cooperative business model. With a focus on middle school to college-age students, the program encourages innovative approaches, measurable outcomes, and engagement strategies. It prioritizes initiatives with a national or state-level reach within the CHS trade area, fostering success and growth in cooperative education. Funding will be allocated to programs that align with these goals, ensuring a robust educational framework for future leaders in agriculture.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Genevieve Edmee Lenz Guldner Kansas University Fine Arts Scholarship

The purpose of the fund shall be to provide scholarships to students attending the Kansas University Fine Arts School.

Renewable for 4 years if all requirements are met.