Best Grants for Grassroots Organizations in New York

The Leonard C. and Jeannette W. Varkal Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports high-achieving seniors from Berlin, New Britain, and Plainville, CT. Eligible candidates must rank in the top 10% of their class or maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, pursuing degrees in Education or Business. Preference is given to those demonstrating financial need, ensuring support for dedicated students committed to enhancing their communities through education.

The MacDonald/Hjerpe Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports graduating seniors from New Britain, Plainville, and Farmington High Schools. Eligible applicants must demonstrate academic achievement with a minimum GPA of C+, exhibit financial need, and have clear educational goals. Preference is given to those pursuing careers in sciences, education, or human services and who will not receive substantial other scholarships. This award aims to help deserving students overcome financial barriers.

The New Britain-Berlin Rotary Club Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports graduating seniors from local high schools, especially INTERACT Club members. This scholarship aims to promote educational attainment and community engagement, assisting students in pursuing further education or technical training that fosters personal growth and career success. By investing in youth leadership and service, it encourages a vibrant community and strengthens the region's educational landscape.

The Elvira A. Davis Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, offers renewable financial support to residents of Denmark, Maine, who are pursuing a college or university education or equivalent post-secondary studies. Founded in 1983, the Maine Community Foundation focuses on strategic giving and community leadership, aiming to strengthen local initiatives and empower individuals through education. This scholarship helps ensure that residents can achieve their academic goals and contribute positively to their community.

The Ruth M. and Adolph J. Betterini Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports graduating seniors from Berlin and New Britain High Schools. Eligible students must maintain at least a C+ average and intend to pursue a bachelor's degree in engineering or a medical field. Preference is given to those demonstrating financial need and good citizenship, ensuring that motivated individuals can further their education and contribute positively to their communities.

The Allen and Rosalind Humes Humanitarian Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports high school seniors from Berlin and Deep River, CT, and residents of Winchester, NH. Eligible candidates must be active members of a faith community and average students, ranked in the middle third of their class. This scholarship aims to foster future success in humanitarian disciplines such as social work, nursing, and teaching, encouraging a commitment to serving others.

The Diane Ober and Kevin Hubbard Memorial Blue Sky Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, supports residents of Islesboro and graduates of Islesboro Central School who are 23 or older. It encourages projects and studies that nurture individual passions, honoring the adventurous spirits of Diane Ober and Kevin Hubbard. Preference is given to applicants who have shown resilience, kindness, and a desire to learn. This fund aims to foster personal growth and community development.

The Denmark Lions Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, offers financial assistance to deserving high school graduates from Denmark. This initiative supports local students pursuing post-secondary education and those with a history of community service. Since its inception 30 years ago, the fund has aimed to empower individuals and strengthen the community through education, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder academic aspirations.

The Mellon Postdoctoral Fellowship in History of Art and Visual Studies at Cornell University invites applications for a two-year position starting August 1, 2026. The fellowship, sponsored by the Society for the Humanities, offers a stipend of $64,000 per year. Candidates will engage in comparative studies of art history and visual culture prior to 1000 AD while teaching two courses annually. International applicants are encouraged, contingent upon visa eligibility.

The Established Advocacy Grant, offered by the AADA, provides crucial financial support to state dermatology societies that have previously received multiple advocacy grant awards. This program aims to enhance health policy initiatives, focusing on specific legislative priorities. Eligible states must align their applications with AADA’s policy priorities and demonstrate their advocacy efforts through a detailed plan. Compliance with IRS regulations and timely reporting is mandatory for continued funding.

The Development Advocacy Grant by AADA supports state dermatology societies new to advocacy, providing essential funding for health policy initiatives and lobbying. This program is tailored for states with limited prior funding, ensuring a simplified application process to encourage participation. Eligible states must align their projects with AADA's policy priorities and submit a final report detailing advocacy progress. This initiative fosters growth in advocacy efforts, empowering societies to influence key legislation effectively.

The Tim Considine Memorial Scholarship, provided by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, offers two $1,250 scholarships for Torrington residents who are high school seniors or vocational technical students aiming for university admission. Preference is given to those involved in organized sports and faith-based activities, highlighting academic achievement and character through community service. This scholarship is non-need-based, ensuring accessibility for dedicated students.

The Carolyn Lewis Scholarship Fund, established by Barrett Lewis's estate, supports residents of Lubec in pursuing post-secondary education. Managed by the Maine Community Foundation, which has been serving Maine since 1983, this fund aims to empower local students through financial assistance for college or community college. With a focus on strategic giving and community leadership, the foundation ensures that resources are effectively utilized to foster educational opportunities in the region.

The United Nations Association of Connecticut Scholarship, managed by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, provides financial support ranging from $2,000 to $3,000 for current high school students in Connecticut. Eligible applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, engage in international issues, participate in Model UN or similar programs, and study a foreign language. This initiative aims to empower students committed to global citizenship while ensuring equitable access to educational opportunities.

The AAD Advocate Of The Year Award, presented by the American Academy of Dermatology Association, honors exceptional grassroots advocacy efforts in dermatology. This prestigious award promotes year-round advocacy and highlights the significant impact of dedicated individuals. Eligibility includes active participation in legislative efforts and direct engagement with legislators. It aims to inspire and recognize those who contribute to the advancement of dermatology and skin health through advocacy initiatives.

The Gunvor Lund Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, awards between $500 and $2,000 to students from Southeastern Connecticut pursuing studies in engineering or the sciences. Since 1983, over $11.9 million has been distributed through various funds to support students in their educational journeys. Scholarship awards are paid directly to colleges by August 1, aiding students in achieving their academic and career goals.

The Gilbert W. Mead III Memorial Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports students from Southeastern Connecticut who show talent in the Arts and have financial need. Offering an award of $500, the scholarship aims to assist these students in pursuing their educational goals. Priority is given to those with physical limitations or disabilities, reinforcing the foundation's commitment to inclusive education since 1983.

The National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) is set to release a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) focused on the ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI) of genomics. This initiative aims to explore how genomics can enhance health and well-being while addressing its broader societal impacts. The NHGRI encourages applications from diverse academic disciplines to promote innovative and replicable research approaches that effectively analyze the consequences of genomic advancements.

The Ashley and Sarah Abel Memorial Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Abilene, honors two sisters who cherished their bond and creativity. Designed for graduates or undergraduates from Region 14 high schools pursuing careers in English, literature, or communications, this scholarship reflects the sisters' dedication to education and artistic expression. It aims to support students in achieving their college dreams, continuing the legacy of Ashley and Sara Abel's passion for learning and community involvement.

The APA Foundation's Helping Hands Grants provide up to $5,000 to medical schools for projects aimed at improving mental health education and assistance in under-served communities. Initiated in 2005, this program empowers medical students to lead initiatives that promote awareness of mental illness and encourage community service, particularly among minority populations. By partnering with community agencies, these projects foster a deeper interest in psychiatry while addressing critical mental health needs.

The Catherine Aileen Smith-Jones Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, supports graduating high school seniors who are members of Holy Family Catholic Church and plan to attend an accredited four-year college or university in the United States. This scholarship honors Cathy Smith-Jones, who valued community, resilience, and the gift of life, leaving a lasting legacy through her organ donations and commitment to helping others.

The Cad and Dorothy Kelley Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation in 1983, supports two graduating seniors residing in Lubec to pursue post-secondary education. This initiative reflects the foundation's commitment to strategic giving and community leadership, offering personalized service and deep local expertise. By facilitating educational opportunities, the fund aims to empower young individuals and contribute to the development of their community in Maine.

The Gilbert Cook Memorial Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Abilene, honors Gilbert Cook, a devoted community leader and philanthropist. This scholarship aims to support graduating seniors from local high schools planning to attend accredited colleges or universities. Through this initiative, the foundation continues its mission of fostering educational opportunities and empowering students to achieve their dreams, thereby contributing to a thriving Abilene community.

The Harold Dean Wade Memorial Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Abilene, honors a dedicated Christian educator who believed in the transformative power of education. This scholarship supports graduating seniors from Texas and Oklahoma who plan to attend Christian colleges or universities full-time. Applicants must rank in the top 15% of their class, ensuring that deserving students continue to pursue their academic dreams while upholding Harold's legacy of service and education.

The Allen C. & Leurene F. Hodgkins Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, offers renewable scholarships for high school seniors or recent graduates from Lamoine, Maine. This fund supports those pursuing post-secondary education, prioritizing academic achievement and financial need. Founded in 1983, the Maine Community Foundation connects resources to enhance community well-being, ensuring that students from Lamoine can access the education they need to succeed.

Bold Foundation

Our Mission: Fighting Student Debt

The average student today will graduate more than $30,000 in debt and is far less likely to start small businesses, seek the highest impact careers, buy homes, or start families. At Bold.org®, we believe that’s a problem worth solving.

Fishers of Men-tal Health Scholarship

The Fishers of Men-tal Health Scholarship honors the life and legacy of Dima Kapelkin—a beloved brother, son, and friend who loved fishing, Jesus, and serving those in need.

Today, mental health and addiction are among the most pressing challenges facing individuals and families. Each struggle is difficult on its own, and yet they often coexist—nearly 50% of people with severe mental illness also experience substance abuse. To support those on the path to healing, we need compassionate, well-equipped professionals who are called to this work.

To apply, please share how your personal experiences with mental health have shaped your beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations.

"Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." Matthew 4:19

The Robert D. and Dorothy M. Powers Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports high school seniors from New Britain, CT, pursuing a bachelor’s degree. This scholarship prioritizes academic achievement and financial need, ensuring that deserving students can continue their education and achieve their aspirations. With a strong commitment to community development, CFGNB aims to empower students and foster a brighter future for the region.