Best Youth Sports Grants in Missouri

The Dr. Thomas E. and Mary M. Ashley Medical Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides an $8,000 grant to a postgraduate student in their third or fourth year at the University of Missouri School of Medicine–Springfield. Eligible candidates must demonstrate academic excellence and financial need, supported by a FAFSA-SAI form, a letter of good standing, and a personal essay, along with a letter of recommendation.

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.

The Ralph J. Torraco Food Bank/Shelter Fund Grant, offered by the UNICO Foundation Inc., aims to combat hunger and provide shelter for the homeless and indigent. Eligible applicants include registered non-profit food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters in 13 U.S. states. The grant focuses on direct services, ensuring that all funds are used for food and shelter, not for operating expenses, thereby promoting effective community support for vulnerable populations.

The Walker Charitable Foundation provides funding for charitable, religious, scientific, literary, and educational endeavors. Organizations must contact the Foundation at least 30 days prior to grant submission to discuss eligibility. The Foundation aims to support as many worthy organizations as possible, guided by its Executive Director and Board, primarily consisting of Walker family members. Over the years, it has proudly funded numerous organizations that have made significant contributions to their communities.

The Carolyn L. Kuckein Student Research Fellowship, awarded by Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, supports first and second-year medical students conducting research over 2 to 12 months. With a total funding of $7,000, students can receive reimbursement for travel expenses up to $1,000 for presenting their findings at national conferences. Eligibility requires enrollment in schools with active AΩA chapters, while those taking a year off for research or holding a PhD are ineligible.

The Cigna Group Foundation is launching the Improving Youth Mental Health Grant, committing $9 million over three years to enhance mental health support for youth aged five to 18. This initiative targets post-pandemic challenges, offering resources to parents, caregivers, and youth service professionals. Nonprofits are encouraged to apply for funding between $100,000 and $150,000 to develop programs that promote social-emotional skills, enhance caregiver support, and improve access to mental health interventions in underserved communities.

The AHRF: Bernard and Lottie Drazin Memorial Grants provide up to five $1,000 awards to otolaryngology residents conducting research projects during their residency. Eligible applicants must be from selected Chicago programs or institutions represented by AHRF Board members. Proposals are evaluated on criteria such as novelty, significance, and feasibility. Grant recipients are required to submit progress reports and notify AHRF of any publications resulting from their funded research.

The Ford Philanthropy Advanced Manufacturing & Trades SkillPointe Scholarship provides $5,000 scholarships for students pursuing high-demand skilled trades and technical careers. Sponsored by the SkillPointe Foundation, this initiative addresses the skills gap by funding scholarships for various fields, including manufacturing, energy, and construction. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a post-secondary institution and reside in specific locations. The program aims to empower individuals with hands-on skills and industry-recognized credentials.

The Neighborhood Empowerment Grant program supports Kansas City's communities by funding projects that enhance public safety, neighborhood identity, and quality of life. By fostering community engagement and supporting local initiatives, this grant empowers neighborhoods to thrive. Eligible applicants include not-for-profit Neighborhood Associations registered with the City of Kansas City and the State of Missouri. This initiative is vital for building stronger, safer, and more vibrant communities, ensuring the needs of residents are prioritized.

The MRC/SOT Early Career Toxicologist Award, presented by the Society of Toxicology, recognizes an outstanding Midwest toxicologist with up to 10 years of experience. This prestigious award honors candidates actively contributing to the field or recently retired, showcasing their unique research achievements and teaching proficiency. Winners receive an engraved plaque and an honorarium, celebrating their commitment to advancing toxicology and enhancing human, animal, and environmental health.

The Diann Bomkamp Leadership Scholarship, offered by the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA), supports students pursuing an Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene in Missouri. Eligible applicants are required to demonstrate leadership within their Student ADHA Chapter and show active community volunteerism. A minimum GPA of 3.0 is necessary, along with enrollment in an accredited dental hygiene program, ensuring students have the resources to excel in their education and future careers.

The Express Health Information Outreach Awards aim to enhance public health by increasing access to biomedical information for U.S. health professionals and the general public. These awards support projects that improve health information literacy among consumers and caregivers, ensuring they can effectively find and utilize health information. Focused on partnerships and outreach to underrepresented communities, the initiative seeks to promote healthy behaviors, prevent illness, and improve health outcomes through informed decision-making.

The NRCS' Feral Swine Eradication and Control Pilot Program for FY 2026 aims to combat the environmental and agricultural threats posed by invasive feral swine. With over $3.4 billion in annual damage attributed to these species, the program seeks to mitigate their impact on ecosystems and human health. Funded by the USDA, this initiative targets states with high feral swine populations, emphasizing collaborative efforts with State Technical Committees to implement effective control measures.

The Manufacturing Extension Partnership Center State Competition aims to support small and mid-sized manufacturers in the U.S. by facilitating the adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies. This initiative, funded by the NIST, encourages innovation in manufacturing through the integration of robotics, AI, and other technologies. Eligible applicants can establish MEP Centers in various states, helping manufacturers improve competitiveness and economic outcomes. This program is vital for enhancing productivity and fostering growth in the manufacturing sector.

The Encova Foundation of West Virginia is dedicated to improving communities by supporting local causes that align with the values of its associates and policyholders. They focus on health, education, and wellness, emphasizing the importance of children's success. Organizations applying for grants must be U.S.-based and verified as charitable. Preference is given to initiatives impacting health and education, especially those involving Encova associates as active participants.

The Bootheel Regional Community Foundation Grantmaking Program, founded by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, aims to enhance the quality of life in the Bootheel region through strategic grantmaking. Since its establishment on September 13, 2023, it has distributed over $84,800 in grants and currently manages assets totaling $3,246,877. The program supports 501(c)(3) organizations and other IRS-approved entities to foster community development and leadership across Scott, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Dunklin, and Stoddard counties.

The Civil Money Penalty Reinvestment Grant Program, overseen by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, aims to utilize funds from civil money penalties imposed on nursing homes to support initiatives that enhance the quality of care and life for residents. Eligible organizations include advocacy groups, nursing home associations, and academic institutions. The program prohibits using funds for compliance-related expenses or projects exceeding three years, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively for resident benefit.

The AmeriCorps Missouri Operational Grant aims to enhance community service through national service and volunteerism. Focused on underserved populations, it supports evidence-based interventions, especially in rural and urban areas facing poverty and social inequities. The grant prioritizes programs that bolster civic engagement, environmental stewardship, and workforce development for AmeriCorps members, ensuring a lasting impact in communities while promoting inclusivity and resilience.

The Native Voices Endowment Grants, managed by the Endangered Language Fund, support the preservation of endangered languages associated with Native American tribes that interacted with the Lewis and Clark Expedition from 1803-1806. Grants are available for language documentation, revitalization, and educational projects, fostering cultural heritage through various initiatives. Eligible applicants include tribal members and language programs, ensuring the continuation of linguistic traditions and community involvement in revitalizing native languages.

RBC Foundation – USA aims to enhance community quality of life by supporting non-profit organizations that promote diversity and positive change. In 2023, it awarded over $2.8 million in grants, prioritizing youth programs for ages 15-29, arts access for diverse populations, and mental well-being initiatives. The foundation encourages sustainable projects that foster economic independence, providing critical support for education, mental health, and cultural enrichment, thereby making a significant impact across various communities.

The RMEF Grant Program lies at the core of advancing our mission.

RMEF established the program in 1986 to provide financial and logistical support to projects that align with our priorities and goals. Grant funds raised by RMEF members, volunteers and generous donors from across the country translate into significantly more conservation accomplishment when matched with partner funds. The RMEF Grant Program also aims to build recognition for RMEF’s work, grow engagement, and boost local fundraising efforts.

Governed by clear guidelines and criteria, the RMEF Grant Program seeks to foster meaningful collaborations and long-term impacts in the conservation of natural resources and outdoor traditions. Grant project partners include federal, state, local, and tribal wildlife and land management agencies, private landowners and local stakeholders, sportsmen and women, and conservation organizations, universities, foundations and the outdoor industry. Eligible projects primarily focus on habitat stewardship, land conservation and access, wildlife management, and hunting heritage.

We support organizations recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as a 501(c)3 entity, federal, state, local, or tribal government entities, sportsmen’s organizations, or educational institutions. All applicants must have a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) issued by the IRS. RMEF does not offer grants to individuals.

Land Conservation and Access

RMEF conserves critical big game habitat and migration corridors, while expanding and improving public access, including through land acquisitions and voluntary conservation agreements. RMEF's

2026 priorities include:

• Conserving migratory corridors and connecting landscapes through land conservation efforts
• Creating new or improved public access through access easements and agreements and state-run access programs

The Nixa Affiliate Grantmaking Program, managed by the Nixa Community Foundation, seeks to enhance community well-being through strategic funding. It supports innovative projects that address pressing local needs, encourages collaboration among organizations, and prioritizes areas such as culture, economic development, education, environment, family, and health. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and other IRS-approved entities serving the Nixa area, with grants available up to $10,000.

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS)

The MNRS originally began to provide a place for nurses to collaborate, and collaborate they did! Over time, the founding members began to realize the benefits of having an organization dedicated specifically to nursing research. With some careful attention and a lot of hard work, we have grown into the organization it is today. We're a society where scientists, innovators, and drivers of clinical practice across the career trajectory, come together to share ideas and grow our field through innovative research.

The mission of the MNRS is to generate knowledge, translate evidence into practice, and enhance careers through collaborative engagement, implementation, and dissemination among diverse scholars. Our Vision to be the premier society that advances science, fosters leadership, and drives dissemination to improve health equity for all people.

It is an honor to recognize the important contributions of our nursing colleagues. MNRS accepts nominations for our five very prestigious awards to selected members of the Society who have made significant and notable contributions to the field of nursing through research.

The Excellence in Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Award

The purpose of the Excellence in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award is to recognize the contribution of a member who has demonstrated outstanding commitment and made significant contributions to advance equitable health outcomes and reduce health disparities through research, which has enhanced the science and practice of nursing in the MNRS region.  

The AW Environmental Grant Program, backed by American Water Works Company, Inc., aims to support community-driven projects focused on water conservation and the protection of vital water resources. Since 2012, the foundation has invested over $15 million in innovative initiatives that enhance access to clean water and promote responsible water usage in underserved communities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) charities and educational institutions committed to environmental stewardship.

Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS)

The MNRS originally began to provide a place for nurses to collaborate, and collaborate they did! Over time, the founding members began to realize the benefits of having an organization dedicated specifically to nursing research. With some careful attention and a lot of hard work, we have grown into the organization it is today. We're a society where scientists, innovators, and drivers of clinical practice across the career trajectory, come together to share ideas and grow our field through innovative research.

The mission of the MNRS is to generate knowledge, translate evidence into practice, and enhance careers through collaborative engagement, implementation, and dissemination among diverse scholars. Our Vision to be the premier society that advances science, fosters leadership, and drives dissemination to improve health equity for all people.

It is an honor to recognize the important contributions of our nursing colleagues. MNRS accepts nominations for our five very prestigious awards to selected members of the Society who have made significant and notable contributions to the field of nursing through research.

MNRS Lifetime Achievement Award

The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes an MNRS member who has significantly advanced the profession of nursing either through an extensive program of research or creation of environments where research can flourish, and whose sustained leadership and distinguished career yielded outstanding and noteworthy accomplishments.