Best Norfolk city Grants for Nonprofits in Virginia

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties. In 2025, more than $1,000,000 was awarded to local students to help them achieve their educational dreams.

The Don and Elsie Sickafoose Educational Trust Fund

The Don and Elsie Sickafoose Educational Trust Fund was established to assist students residing in Carroll County.

Amount:

• Varies. Minimum $500.

Renewable:

• Yes

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties. In 2025, more than $1,000,000 was awarded to local students to help them achieve their educational dreams.

The Church of Christ (Christian Disciples) Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Church of Christ (Christian Disciples) Memorial Scholarship Fund was established to help students who have permanent residence in Carroll County, Ohio or had a permanent residence on the date they began their post high school education.

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties. In 2025, more than $1,000,000 was awarded to local students to help them achieve their educational dreams.

The Bruce and Crystal Burgett Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Bruce and Crystal Burgett Memorial Scholarship Fund was established to assist Carrollton, Edison, or New Philadelphia High School graduates or graduating seniors majoring in an agricultural-related field of study. Students must demonstrate above-average academic achievement and a history of participation in extracurricular, civic, and/or community activities.

Amount:

• Varies. Minimum $500.

Renewable:

• Yes

About Levitt

The Levitt Family Foundation exists to strengthen the social fabric of America. We partner with communities to activate underused outdoor spaces, creating welcoming, inclusive destinations where the power of free, live music brings people together and invigorates community life.

Festival Grants

The Levitt Foundation is offering grants of up to $5,000 to U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits presenting free outdoor music festivals in 2026. 

Alliance for Social Trust: Trust in Practice Awards

Trust is the foundation of vibrant, resilient communities and healthy civic life. Across the country, local and national organizations are demonstrating the profound ways trust shapes our collective well-being—strengthening relationships between neighbors, cultivating confidence in institutions, and enabling people to work together to solve shared challenges. These efforts are often rooted in the knowledge and leadership of those closest to the work. 

The Trust in Practice Awards support non-profit organizations that are collaborating on new initiatives to build trust across local or virtual communities. Grantees will be part of a national network dedicated to fostering trust through the Alliance for Social Trust’s programs and storytelling platforms. Award recipients will also participate in the annual Trust in Practice Summit to celebrate the work of trust builders.

Coral Gables Community Foundation

Led by community leaders, the Coral Gables Community Foundation provides the philanthropic conduit to connect individuals and corporations looking to positively impact the success of the community. Now in its 33rd year, the Foundation has been at the forefront of the evolving needs of Coral Gables while effectively bringing together beneficiaries and benefactors to fund programs with the greatest impact and benefit to “The City Beautiful.”

Coral Gables Community Foundation’s Scholarships Program

Coral Gables Community Foundation is honored to partner with our fundholders to administer generous scholarships as well as manage the Foundation’s own scholarship funds.

The Foundation and its fundholders have proudly awarded over $6.7 million in scholarships in just the last decade.

High-Achieving Four-Year Scholarship

This 4-year scholarship is given annually to students who have demonstrated overall academic achievement and dedication to service within the school and in his/her community, and have low family income. The Foundation also considers applicants’ motivation, financial need, and personal experiences.

Maintenance

In order to maintain the scholarship each year, the recipient must maintain a minimum overall 3.0 GPA throughout his/her college studies.

United Institute for Theatre Technology

The United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT) connects performing arts design and technology communities to ensure a vibrant dialog among practitioners, educators, and students.

Driven by our core values of inclusion, excellence, and responsibility, we provide mentorship programs, exhibit opportunities, grant funding, awards, and other opportunities for our members and for the entertainment industry. 

Emerging Digital Design Showcase

USITT is seeking expressions of interest from students and early-career creatives to participate in the Emerging Digital Design Showcase during the USITT26 Annual Conference & Stage Expo. Presented on the main USITT Awards Stage, this curated showcase highlights the next generation of digital and graphic designers working in performance, live events, and immersive environments.

This year’s showcase is inspired by the ocean, coastal environments, and the world beneath the surface — reflecting both the Long Beach location and the ideas of depth, motion, and interconnectedness inherent in live performance. Designers are encouraged to interpret the theme broadly rather than literally.

This showcase is not a competition; rather, it is intended as a platform for visibility, mentorship, and the celebration of emerging voices within the USITT community.

The NIH Director’s Transformative Research Award supports individual scientists or groups of scientists proposing bold, groundbreaking, exceptionally innovative, original, and/or unconventional research with the potential to create new scientific paradigms, establish entirely new and improved clinical approaches, or develop transformative technologies. Applications in any area within the biomedical sciences are welcome. No preliminary data are required. Projects must clearly demonstrate, based on the strength of the logic, a compelling potential to produce a major impact in a broad area of relevance to the NIH. The NIH Director’s Transformative Research Award is a component of the High-Risk, High-Reward Research (HRHR) Program of the NIH Common Fund.

Epps Scholarship

The Epps Scholarship Fund was established at the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation by attorneys Willie and Mischa Epps to support the aspirations of college-bound high school seniors with an expressed interest in pursuing a legal education. This fund honors Dr. Willie James Epps, Sr. and Dr. Barbara Bacon Epps, both born and raised in rural, poor and segregated Mississippi, but excelled in school and became a part of the first generation in their respective families to attend college. Both went on to earn Ph.D.’s in the field of education and to teach at various schools, colleges and universities across the country. They instilled in their two children that faith and education are the keys to success. Their children became licensed attorneys who regularly attend church. Willie and his wife Mischa chose a non-traditional path to promote the scholarship opportunity by working in partnership with churches that disseminate the application and deadline information throughout their congregations.

The Epps Scholarship Fund awards scholarships to college-bound high school seniors based on demonstrated academic achievement, financial need, and an express interest in pursuing a legal education.

Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis and disbursed in equal payments in August and January. Each scholarship awarded will be a minimum of $2,000 annually to be paid in two equal installments.

This scholarship is not renewable.

Each year, Innovia awards over $400,000 in scholarships to deserving students like you who are college-bound or pursuing vocational or technical training. Single scholarship awards range between $500 and $4,000.

Spokane Area Swimming Adam England Memorial Scholarship

Graduating high school seniors in all counties served by the Foundation are eligible to apply. Applicants must have participated in competitive swimming meets while in high school and must submit a letter of recommendation from a coach confirming participation in these swimming meets. Applicants must have a minimum 3.5 GPA and plan to enroll in post-high school program at full-time status.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Milton and Ruby McClendon Scholarship

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Milton and Ruby McClendon Scholarship

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

O'Shea Patrick McCarthy Scholarship

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Peoples Bank Scholarship

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Philippine Professionals Association Scholarship

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Peter V. Westhaysen Medical Education Scholarship

Scholarships are available for post-secondary undergraduate, graduate and post-graduate students pursuing a degree to become a physician or nurse at an accredited university. The purpose of the scholarship is to assist the student with the costs of tuition, fees, and books. The Advisory Committee consider two basic criteria: academic achievement and financial need.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Rachel Rodriguez Scholarship

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Schrage Family Enrichment

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.

The American Academy of Optometry Foundation

The American Academy of Optometry (AAOF) is an association of optometric professionals who strive to stay at the top of their field. You will find like-minded colleagues within the American Academy of Optometry, an organization committed to promoting the art and science of vision care through lifelong learning.

The Academy’s membership is comprised of optometrists, vision scientists, and other qualified professionals who have committed themselves to the rigorous process required to achieve its prestigious designation, Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry (FAAO).

For more than a century, the Academy has provided Fellows access to the best minds in optometry, vision science, research, and more. Today’s Fellows welcome the opportunity to attend the Academy’s premiere event, its annual meeting. Other members include students, residents, and Candidates for Fellowship.

Each fall attendees from around the world gather for thousands of hours of continuing education and exposure to the most recent research, networking, and latest products and services. Fellows particularly value the opportunity to connect with colleagues and mentors while enjoying an exceptional level of camaraderie.

OD to PhD Scholarship Program

The OD/PhD Scholarship Program funds optometrists receiving a PhD in eye and vision related fields. Examples of appropriate PhD programs include but are not limited to: Vision Science, Physiological Optics, Biomedical Sciences, Public Health, Education (emphasis on Optometric Education), Neuroscience, and Psychology. The program provides vital support to those who will teach and lead the next generation of optometry students and advance the profession’s cutting-edge research.

The American Academy of Optometry Foundation is proud to partner with EssilorLuxottica to offer the OD to PhD Fellowship, an opportunity created to support optometrists who are ready to take the next step into vision science research. This fellowship is open to individuals who have completed or are completing the clinical training required for the optometry degree and who are enrolling in a PhD program in vision science or a related biomedical discipline.

This competitive fellowship provides financial support during the early years of doctoral training. Awardees receive funding in their first year and may receive additional support in the second year based on successful academic and research progress as detailed in their annual progress report.

Note, awardees may receive the fellowship for up to one successive, two-year period. 

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties. In 2025, more than $1,000,000 was awarded to local students to help them achieve their educational dreams.

The Velma Shotwell Griffin Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Velma Shotwell Griffin Memorial Scholarship Fund was established to assist graduates of Conotton Valley or Carrollton High Schools planning to enroll, or currently enrolled, at an accredited college or university to pursue further education in the following fields: History, Writing (not limited to, English, Journalism, Language Arts, Communications and programs in Mass Media), Graphic Arts, Music (which shall include but not limited to, vocal music, instrumental music, music history, music education, and music performance) and any other program or field of study approved by the Selection Committee. 

Amount:

• Varies. Minimum $500.

Renewable:

• Yes

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Henry Warden/Patty Shannon Scholarship Endowment Fund

Henry Warden, a Pennsylvania native, moved to Virginia in the late 1800’s, residing at his historic Hazel Hill on lower Princess Ann Street. In addition to owning several other farm properties around the city and in Spotsylvania County, Henry was very active in Fredericksburg public affairs: including, but not limited to serving on the Fredericksburg City Council for 12 years, holding a position as a director of the Chamber of Commerce, serving on the board of directors at Planters National Bank of Fredericksburg (a predecessor of today’s PNC Bank), served on the Fredericksburg City School Board and was one of the founders of Lee Hill Cemetery. He also owned several businesses including Hazel Hill Canning Company.

Patty Shannon is Henry’s great-granddaughter.

High school seniors graduating from Spotsylvania County or the City of Fredericksburg are eligible for this renewable scholarship as a first-generation college student in their immediate family and demonstrate financial need.

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Lee Wingate Pappandreou Drama Award

The Lee Wingate Pappandreou Award was established in honor of Mrs. Lee Wingate Pappandreou, an outstanding and dedicated drama teacher at James Monroe High School. This award, established by her husband, is given to the single drama student who best exemplifies the dedication to, professionalism towards, and talent in theater arts that Mrs. Pappandreou dedicated herself to instilling in her students.

The award is available on a one-time basis to local graduating high school seniors only.

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Mary B. and Perry A. Thompson Scholarship Fund

The Mary B. and Perry A. Thompson Scholarship Fund honors two of the Fredericksburg region’s prominent civic leaders of the 50’s and 60’s: Mary Thompson, an educator who served Fredericksburg City Schools for nearly 40 years, and Perry Thompson, who retired as advertising director of the Free Lance-Star after 40 years of service. Mr. Thompson established this scholarship fund in July of 1989 to support meritorious local high school seniors with a demonstrable need for financial support. The fund was transferred to The Community Foundation in January 2013.

The Thompson’s Scholarship Fund supports the college or university education of graduating high school seniors from the City of Fredericksburg or the counties of Spotsylvania or Stafford. In particular, the donors intend for their gift to support the further education of high school students who have strong character and who demonstrate applying their intellect. Priority will be given to students for whom financial need or other circumstances create barriers to further education.

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Paris B. Swisher Memorial Scholarship

The Paris B. Swisher Memorial Scholarship is an honor to a grandaughter's fighting spirit.

Paris graduated from Patrick Henry High School in Roanoke, VA and attended Liberty University. She exemplified a faithful and fearless life by learning music and sailing, enjoying art and embracing her friendships and faith. This scholarship fund celebrates who she was and will continue to do so by supporting local students to shine their light.

A memorial is from David and Shirley Swisher, Paris' grandparents. The Swisher’s also have the David and Shirley Swisher Charitable Fund. They see this scholarship as a meaningful way to continually commemorate service and faith, principles Paris stood for.

Eligible students are high school seniors graduating from specific schools that must be enrolled, accepted or awaiting approval of acceptance from Liberty University and demonstrate service to their community. 

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Rev. Douglas T. Pinkard Memorial Scholarship Fund

This scholarship fund was created in memory of Reverend Douglas T. Pinkard. He was a loving father who had five children who attended Spotsylvania County high schools. He was a Baptist Minister in the Spotsylvania community who committed his life to serving others. Some of his missions included: preaching and teaching the gospel, teaching Sunday school and feeding the hungry, as well as visiting the hospitals and prisons. At the age of 62, he was diagnosed with a brain tumor that took him home to be with the Lord. Reverend Pinkard once said, “Plant the seed, even though you may not be there to see the beauty of its maturity.”

The Pinkard family wishes to memorialize their loving family member through an annual scholarship that supports Spotsylvania County or City of Fredericksburg high school graduates who share Reverend Pinkard’s commitment to service. At least one scholarship of $1000 will be offered.

This scholarship is given as a seed that will be planted and cultivated so others may see its beauty.

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Schmidt Trade Construction Fund

The Schmidt Family Construction Fund aims to alleviate the financial burden on students and ensure they have the necessary resources to succeed in their chosen trade.

Joe Schmidt knows construction and Sharon Schmidt knows The Community Foundation. So, when it came time to create a charitable fund, they knew what they wanted to accomplish. The Schmidt's worked with the foundation to meet the needs Joe sees in the construction business today. More people are needed in the industry and the idea of this fund is to help students that are just getting into the field of construction.

This approach recognizes that while funding for classes and education is often available, students may face challenges in acquiring the tools of the trade such as protective equipment or specialized clothing.

This scholarship provides funds to purchase tools and other essential items crucial for practical training and professional development. Grants will be available for local students enrolled in an industry or construction training and certification program in either a high school or a community college. 

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Seay Family Scholarship Fund

Nick and Marvin Seay (Garnett Marvin Seay, II) and their parents Kathryn and Garnett are representatives of a family with ties to our region that are 200 years old. Kathryn Hill Seay was a successful businesswoman and community volunteer who operated the General Washington Inn and who lead the effort to create Fredericksburg’s Meals on Wheels program. Garnett Seay was a businessman as well, but was also a fine craftsman, particularly known as a furniture builder.

This scholarship fund was initially created in memory of Garnett Marvin Seay II, known to all as Marvin, upon his untimely death at just 24 years old. When their parents passed, Nick Seay modified the scholarship to honor each of his family members and the Seay Family legacy in Spotsylvania and Fredericksburg.

Students who attend Fredericksburg City Schools, Spotsylvania County Schools, Fredericksburg Academy, or Fredericksburg Christian School are encouraged to apply.