Best Quality of Life Grants in Missouri

The Southwest Airlines® Founders Scholarship, administered by the Greater Houston Community Foundation, offers financial support to dependents of Southwest Airlines employees pursuing their first post-secondary degree. Established in 1981, this renewable scholarship awards up to $20,000 over four years, contingent on meeting GPA and enrollment criteria. Eligible applicants must demonstrate community service and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5. This scholarship underscores the commitment to empowering educated communities.

Ruth E. Owen Scholarship Fund

Russ Owen established the Ruth E. Owen Scholarship Fund in memory of his beloved wife. He met Ruthie during World War II when he was home on leave. The couple carried on a long-distance romance throughout the war. Ruthie lived in Pittsburgh and worked as a secretary and a professional singer. She performed on the Rege Cordic and Bill Cullen Show on WWSW and with a group called the Melody Guild.

Ruthie trained in New York for the Metropolitan Opera and considered moving there but, as fate would have it, she remained in Pittsburgh and married her beloved Russell. Russ’ hope for this scholarship is that students who are pursuing further education in music can achieve their dream.

The Dana Marie Underdonk Bryant Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Central Kentucky Community Foundation, aims to support female graduating seniors from Hardin County high schools. Eligible applicants must plan to pursue a college degree in marketing or business, or have participated in high school tennis, with a minimum GPA of 3.5. This scholarship not only provides financial assistance but also encourages leadership and community involvement among young women.

Community Foundation: Central Blue Ridge

Proudly serving the independent cities of Staunton and Waynesboro and the counties of Augusta, Highland, and Nelson in Virginia.

Our Mission

To enrich the quality of life by responding to needs and inspiring philanthropy in our community.

Scholarships

Our 2026 Scholarship Program will disburse over $300,000 this year!

Our scholarships support students of all ages (high school seniors, current college students, and adults returning to school) residing in Staunton, Waynesboro, and the counties of Augusta, Highland, and Nelson. 

Only one application is required to be considered for the majority of Community Foundation scholarships.

Frank and Mollie Butler Scholarship

The Frank and Mollie Butler Scholarship was established in 2025 by the Ravenhill Charitable Foundation.

Description

The Frank and Mollie Butler Scholarship will be awarded to graduating high school seniors from Augusta County who are pursuing degrees in Medical/Health Sciences fields or Accounting.

Yellow Dog Studio Memorial Scholarship

The Yellow Dog Studios Memorial Scholarship was established in memory of Mari Zimmerman-Thompson and Christopher Thompson. Mari and Chris became husband and wife in May of 2002. They lived their remaining years together as kindred spirits until July 2, 2015 when a tragic automobile accident took them from their family and friends.

Evaluation Criteria

• Special skills/interests (30)
• Career goals (20)
• Essay (15)
• Letters of recommendation (15)
• Extracurricular activities (5)
• Awards and honors (5)
• Overall involvement in work, school and community activities (5)
• Academic performance (5)

The Dr. Thomas E. and Mary M. Ashley Nursing Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides a $2,000 grant to undergraduate nursing students attending Cox College of Nursing or the College of Health Professions at Southwest Baptist University. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need via FAFSA-SAI and submit a personal essay along with a letter of recommendation. This scholarship supports aspiring nurses in their educational journey, fostering future healthcare professionals.

Washington County Community Foundation

The Washington County Community Foundation seeks to improve the quality of life in Washington County by promoting and facilitating philanthropy. We accomplish this by assuming four philanthropic roles of Grantmaker, Donor Service Organization, Fundraiser, and Community Leader. Fostering philanthropy by offering charitable gifting opportunities to donors on an individualized basis and at reasonable fees, we make charitable giving easier, more satisfying, and more effective. 

The Foundation is a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation organized under the laws of Pennsylvania, which is registered with the Pennsylvania Charities Bureau and annually files the Federal Form 990.

Scholarships for Post-Secondary (Undergraduate) School

The Foundation provides both need-based and merit-based scholarships to students in Washington County, with a few scholarships also available to students in Greene County. All scholarships are made payable to the educational institution the student is attending. 

Curtis Wachter Scholarship Fund

For a current year graduating senior who resides within the boundaries of any Washington County or Greene County school district, who intends to study photography, photojournalism, or a related discipline.

The Alice and Richard Henriquez Memorial Fund and Youth World Awareness Program, established by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, supports young individuals (ages 14-22) from Berkshire, Columbia, northeast Dutchess, and northwest Litchfield counties. It provides grants for international travel experiences aimed at promoting peace and justice. Since 1995, this initiative has encouraged students to engage in humanitarian work abroad, fostering cultural understanding and personal growth while addressing social injustices.

Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia

Our Community Foundation was established in Roanoke in 1988. With our growth, we expanded into the Martinsville/Henry County area in 2005. Today, we administer many hundreds of named endowment funds ranging in size from a minimum of $10,000 to millions of dollars. To date, donors have also committed very significant resources to the Foundation through future estate gifts.

Our Mission:Enabling people who love their community to easily give back.

Scholarships

Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, the region’s community foundation, administers a variety of scholarships to reward and assist capable and deserving students based on the criteria established by the fund donors.

Joycelyn “Fudgie” Lee Farrelly Music Education Scholarship Fund

Fund provides higher education scholarship assistance to deserving students who intend to pursue a degree in music or music education.

The Pediatric Rheumatology Symposium (PRSYM) Abstract Award supports students and residents attending the ACR’s Pediatric Rheumatology Symposium, providing essential clinical insights into pediatric rheumatic diseases. This opportunity encourages medical students and residents to engage in pioneering research, enhancing their understanding and management of these conditions. Applicants must be authors of accepted abstracts and demonstrate significant contributions to their work. This award fosters the next generation of healthcare professionals in pediatric rheumatology.

The Dollie Lane Harp Memorial Scholarship Fund for Classical Music, established by Ruth Harp Gibson, honors her mother’s legacy through music. This scholarship is available for students majoring in classical music at accredited U.S. universities or conservatories. Eligible candidates include graduating seniors from specific Texas high schools who have participated in music during their studies. Awards range from $500 to over $5,000, with payments made directly to educational institutions.

The Tillie Odam Memorial Scholarship, established by John Odam in honor of his mother, supports Big Country high school seniors and alumni pursuing Health Information Technology or Allied Health programs. This scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, provides financial assistance to students enrolling in accredited vocational or college programs. Awards range from $500 to over $5,000, with payments sent directly to educational institutions for the fall and spring semesters.

The African-American Community Foundation - Waverly Glover Scholarship, offered by The Dayton Foundation, supports African-American students pursuing higher education at Central State University or Wilberforce University. Eligible candidates must be business or accounting majors with junior or senior status, enrolled full-time, and maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher. This scholarship honors Waverly Glover's legacy, promoting educational opportunities and empowering the next generation of leaders in the community.

The Betsy Frabotta Educate and Engage Scholarship for Q+ Youth honors the legacy of a dedicated educator and community builder, providing $2000 to outstanding LGBTQ+ and ally students in the Miami Valley. This scholarship supports individuals who demonstrate a commitment to learning and equity, encouraging applicants who are actively involved in advocacy and community service. By fostering inclusion and empowerment, this initiative aims to honor the fight against discrimination and promote a fulfilling life for all.

The SAVC Presentation Award, offered by the Society for Vascular Surgery, recognizes vascular surgeons who have completed clinical research in office-based or ambulatory surgical center settings. This award encourages innovative research on topics such as drug-eluting technology, patient safety, and health disparities. Three recipients will present their findings, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in vascular care. Applications are welcomed from SVS members and eligible trainees, emphasizing community engagement and impactful health projects.

The SAVC Research Seed Grant, offered by the Society for Vascular Surgery, aims to support innovative research in vascular health. With a focus on quality improvement and actionable insights, this grant provides $10,000 to each of three selected recipients. Eligible applicants include SVS Active or Candidate Members and trainees in outpatient vascular practices. The grant emphasizes diversity and community engagement, encouraging projects that address health disparities and enhance patient care through various innovative approaches.

The Esther Roth Gillette Registered Nurse Scholarship, established by The Dayton Foundation in 2017, supports students enrolled in accredited nursing programs. This scholarship aims to empower future nurses by providing financial assistance to those demonstrating community service and financial need. The Dayton Foundation, serving Greater Dayton since 1921, is dedicated to enhancing local philanthropic efforts and addressing pressing community issues, making this scholarship a vital resource for aspiring healthcare professionals.

The Gough Family Scholarship, established in 2021 by The Dayton Foundation, aims to support graduating high school seniors from specific Dayton zip codes who exhibit a strong work ethic and plan to pursue education in a STEM-related field or business. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and have a history of successful employment. This scholarship reflects the Foundation's commitment to fostering education and enhancing opportunities for youth in the community.

The Helen and Howard Smith Nursing Scholarship, established by The Dayton Foundation in 2002, supports students pursuing LPN or BSN degrees. Eligible applicants must be sophomores or above enrolled in nursing programs within Montgomery or Greene counties and demonstrate financial need. Preference is given to non-traditional students. The Dayton Foundation, a key philanthropic entity since 1921, aims to enhance community welfare through charitable initiatives, focusing on education, health services, and cultural advancement.

The African-American Community Foundation - Yokley-Gamblin Family Scholarship, established in 2019, aims to support underrepresented ethnic minority students from Montgomery County in their educational journeys. This scholarship is awarded to students who demonstrate financial need, excel in community involvement, and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or below. Recipients can use the funds for tuition at accredited institutions, including technical schools and colleges, fostering educational opportunities for deserving candidates.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Ralph & Alice Kramp Scholarship Endowment Fund in Memory of Randy Kramp

The Ralph and Alice Kramp Scholarship Endowment Fund in Memory of Randy Kramp was created in 2010.

Randy Kramp, a lifelong Auroran, was forty years old when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. After a three-year battle, he died in June of 2010 of complications from the treatment. Mr. Kramp joined Cub Scouts as soon as he reached the age of eligibility and that began a lifelong enjoyment and commitment to the values of scouting. After he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, he assumed the role of adult leadership as a Wood Badger. He remained active in scouting his entire life.

Scholarships from this fund are available to current or former Boy Scouts in the Fox Valley who are pursuing a higher education toward a career in the field of fire service or emergency medical service.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. The most common scholarship award amount is $1,000 for a single year. Scholarships are designated as non-renewable one-year awards or renewable multi-year awards depending upon the scholarship fund criteria, as established by the donor of the scholarship fund.

The Helen T. Bianca Nursing Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports high school seniors from New Britain and Berlin who are pursuing nursing degrees at accredited institutions. Applicants must show financial need and commitment to community service through volunteer work. A personal essay detailing their dedication to nursing and community impact is required. This scholarship aims to foster future nurses dedicated to improving healthcare in their communities.

The Louis J. (Mattioli) Matt Music Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports graduating seniors from public high schools in New Britain, Newington, or Plainville. Eligible students must pursue a bachelor's degree in music education or performance, demonstrate outstanding musical talent, and rank in the top 25% of their class. Financial need is also a key consideration, encouraging talented young musicians to further their education and hone their skills.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Mary Virginia Hughes and Wesley C. Hughes Scholarship Endowment Fund

This fund was created upon receipt of bequests from the estates of Mary Virginia Hughes and Wesley C. Hughes.

Their parents, Wayne and Sadie Hughes, owned and operated a farm in Newark.

Mary Hughes lived and worked on the family farm her entire life and was a member of the Millbrook United Methodist Church.

It was important to both Mary and Wesley to use their legacies to support the education of local students.

Scholarships from the fund are available to students graduating from a high school located in Kendall County for attendance at an accredited college or university.

These awards are reserved for students pursuing a major in the field of agriculture.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. The most common scholarship award amount is $1,000 for a single year. Scholarships are designated as non-renewable one-year awards or renewable multi-year awards depending upon the scholarship fund criteria, as established by the donor of the scholarship fund.

Buesching-Tucker Memorial Scholarship

This Scholarship is available to any Whitley County resident. Applicants may be current students, non-traditional students, home-school students, and traditional graduating high school seniors with aspirations for a nursing career or obtaining a degree in music.

In loving memory of our amazing mother, sister, aunt, and “Gummi”, and our dear father, uncle, brother, and “Baba” we establish this scholarship to honor Nancy Buesching Tucker and Robert Lewis Tucker residents of rural Churubusco. Our family invites you to apply hoping that in some small way we can aid you in becoming as gifted a nurse as Nancy was or as entertaining a musician as Bob was.

The Barbara Berger Clark Memorial Nursing Scholarship

The family of Barbara Berger Clark created this scholarship in her memory to support the next generation of nurses who share her commitment to public health and to serving their communities. Open to all nursing students, including those entering the field later in life or as a second career, this scholarship especially honors those who share Barbara’s commitment to public health nursing, prevention, and advancing health equity.

Number and Size of Awards

Number of recipients and individual total award amounts vary annually. Award paid in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters. Award renewability varies and is dependent on the length of the recipient’s program of study. Minimum award size $5,000.

Allowed Use of Award

Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with higher education.

Molly Efron Scholarship

To support a Monroe County female high school senior planning to attend a four-year college or university to study science, technology, engineering, or math.

Number and Size of Awards

Two awards of $1,000 each; paid in one lump sum.

Allowed Use of Award

Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with higher education.