Best Quality of Life Grants in North Carolina

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.

About Us

We are YOUR Community Foundation! Our mission is to bring people and resources together to strengthen the quality of life, both now and in the future, for the residents of Randolph County.

The Community Foundation of Randolph County, Inc. is here to make our community the very best place to live, work, and raise a family. As a non-political private organization, we are uniquely able to provide grant money for innovative projects that have a major impact on our community.

Stephen Family Community

It was Kellie’s request that the Stephen family establish a scholarship in honor of his family, who all valued education.He wanted it in memory of him; his grandfather, Leroy Stephen, who was a bus driver at Randolph Central for years; his parents, Gerald and Patsy, who have always been great supporters of the schools; his wife, Cathy, who was also an educator; and his children, who received excellent educations here in Randolph County. His hope was that this scholarship could give back just a little bit of the great experiences the Stephen family received from Randolph County schools.

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.

Armstrong County Community Foundation (The Community Foundation Serving the Heart of Western Pennsylvania)

In 1997 Merchants National Bank, an Armstrong County community bank, marked its 100th anniversary. The centennial celebration included a unique expression of gratitude to the community in the form of $100,000 to be used as a seed fund to initiate a community foundation for Armstrong County. The bank challenged the community to keep the principal balance of the endowed funds intact and spend only a portion of the interest earnings to ensure a lasting legacy.

The Armstrong County Community Foundation, a public nonprofit corporation,

• Gives grants, scholarships, and organizational support to address the needs of our community.
• Builds a permanent endowment to help our donors create a legacy through this endowment.
• Promotes informed philanthropy to increase and sustain charitable resources for the region.
• Provides leadership and builds partnerships to identify and solve community issues.

Marsha J. Alico Memorial Scholarship

Marsha Alico taught for Apollo-Ridge School District from 1972-2006, with 30 of those years teaching third grade. (A few of her later students were children of her early students!) Throughout all of those classes, there was not a single kid she did not care deeply about; and she kept every card and homemade gift they gave her, some for decades. She spent evenings, school breaks, and summers finding and working on new ways to engage her students; and she talked about her “kids” daily until her family felt like we knew them too. 

Shortly after she retired, Marsha, who laughed easily and rarely stood still, was diagnosed with cancer and died after a courageous nine-month battle.  In her memory, we hope to help the next generation of teachers and child advocates pursue their degrees and inspire future kids.

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.

Armstrong County Community Foundation (The Community Foundation Serving the Heart of Western Pennsylvania)

In 1997 Merchants National Bank, an Armstrong County community bank, marked its 100th anniversary. The centennial celebration included a unique expression of gratitude to the community in the form of $100,000 to be used as a seed fund to initiate a community foundation for Armstrong County. The bank challenged the community to keep the principal balance of the endowed funds intact and spend only a portion of the interest earnings to ensure a lasting legacy.

The Armstrong County Community Foundation, a public nonprofit corporation,

• Gives grants, scholarships, and organizational support to address the needs of our community.
• Builds a permanent endowment to help our donors create a legacy through this endowment.
• Promotes informed philanthropy to increase and sustain charitable resources for the region.
• Provides leadership and builds partnerships to identify and solve community issues.

Leo S. Kijowski Memorial Scholarship

Leo S. Kijowski was a lifelong resident of Armstrong County who fought in the Korean War. While on patrol in Korea in October, 1951, a bomb exploded near him and burnt over 55% of his body, 30% of which were 3rd degree burns. Leo spent a total of two years at the Fort Sam Houston Burn Center and had his weight drop to as little as 75 lbs. He then spent two more years at the Aspinwall VA Hospital where he went through painful physical therapy and numerous plastic surgeries. At times during his hospitalization he came close to death.

Leo received numerous medals, including the Purple Heart for his service. Upon returning home, Leo spent much time recuperating in veteran’s hospitals, but he furthered his education by attending St. Vincent’s College, and was involved in citizen efforts to improve Ford City. He joined the Ford City Lion’s Club and became one of its most active and productive leaders. Leo was a Lion for over thirty five years, serving as the Club president and chairman of numerous committees. Not only was he instrumental in activities that raised money for building and maintaining the Ford City Public Library, but he also guided the efforts involving the design and the raising of funds to erect the monument to our nation’s veterans in Ford Park. He was an active promoter of the annual Candlelight Service each Memorial Day, the Meals on Wheels Program, and the Youth Work Referral Service. The Lions presented him with the Achievement Award in 1970, the District Service Award for Lionism in 1981, and the Outstanding Humanitarian Award to Lionism and Community in 1983. Leo was a member of the Ford City Planning and Zoning Commission for six years, he helped to formulate the Comprehensive Master Plan that made possible the renewal of Ford City during its Renaissance and was also involved in the planning and construction of the Ford Park gazebo. In 1995, he was inducted into the Ford City Hall of Fame. 

Leo lived to the age of 91 and found a way to continually selflessly volunteer in the local community in spite of all of his injuries. 

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.

Armstrong County Community Foundation (The Community Foundation Serving the Heart of Western Pennsylvania)

In 1997 Merchants National Bank, an Armstrong County community bank, marked its 100th anniversary. The centennial celebration included a unique expression of gratitude to the community in the form of $100,000 to be used as a seed fund to initiate a community foundation for Armstrong County. The bank challenged the community to keep the principal balance of the endowed funds intact and spend only a portion of the interest earnings to ensure a lasting legacy.

The Armstrong County Community Foundation, a public nonprofit corporation,

• Gives grants, scholarships, and organizational support to address the needs of our community.
• Builds a permanent endowment to help our donors create a legacy through this endowment.
• Promotes informed philanthropy to increase and sustain charitable resources for the region.
• Provides leadership and builds partnerships to identify and solve community issues.

Brett Charmello Memorial Scholarship

The Brett Charmello Memorial Scholarship Fund was started by friends of Brett, after he lost his life in a tragic car accident in 2010.

Armstrong County Community Foundation (The Community Foundation Serving the Heart of Western Pennsylvania)

In 1997 Merchants National Bank, an Armstrong County community bank, marked its 100th anniversary. The centennial celebration included a unique expression of gratitude to the community in the form of $100,000 to be used as a seed fund to initiate a community foundation for Armstrong County. The bank challenged the community to keep the principal balance of the endowed funds intact and spend only a portion of the interest earnings to ensure a lasting legacy.

The Armstrong County Community Foundation, a public nonprofit corporation,

• Gives grants, scholarships, and organizational support to address the needs of our community.
• Builds a permanent endowment to help our donors create a legacy through this endowment.
• Promotes informed philanthropy to increase and sustain charitable resources for the region.
• Provides leadership and builds partnerships to identify and solve community issues.

Armstrong Concert Band Scholarship

The Armstrong Concert Band Scholarship was established in 2006 to assist in funding the education of Armstrong Concert Band members.

The Joan & Bob Rutman Scholarship, established in 2001 by longtime New London residents, aims to support graduating high school seniors from various Connecticut towns in pursuing four-year degrees. With an approximate award of $4,000, this scholarship reflects the Rutmans' commitment to giving back to their community. Financial need is taken into consideration, ensuring that deserving students receive the assistance they need to further their education and build successful careers.

The John Coleman Prince, American Legion Post 9 Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports graduating high school seniors from New London. This $1,000 award honors veteran Anthony John "Tony" Basilica and encourages civic engagement through postsecondary education. Eligible students must demonstrate interest in community activities like NJROTC or scouting, paving the way for a brighter future through higher education.

The OREF/John W. Brown Early-Stage Investigator Grant supports innovative research in musculoskeletal health, encouraging early-stage investigators to submit proposals utilizing enabling technologies. Established by the Orthopaedic Research and Education Foundation, this grant honors John W. Brown's contributions to orthopaedics. With a maximum funding of $100,000 over one or two years, the grant aims to enhance clinical practice and improve patient outcomes through groundbreaking research.

About Us

We are YOUR Community Foundation! Our mission is to bring people and resources together to strengthen the quality of life, both now and in the future, for the residents of Randolph County.

The Community Foundation of Randolph County, Inc. is here to make our community the very best place to live, work, and raise a family. As a non-political private organization, we are uniquely able to provide grant money for innovative projects that have a major impact on our community.

Frances I. Woods Scholarship Fund

Frances Woods was born in Farmland, Indiana on March 21, 1926. She was a hard worker, simultaneously working while putting herself through all her schooling. At age 16, she started working at the Boston Store in Winchester. She graduated from Lincoln High School and attended Sinclair College, Ball State University, and IU East. Frances retired from Union Trust Bank after 25 years of service. She also worked in real estate for several years and enjoyed learning that business. In addition, she also helped manage and work the family farm. While she was responsible for the financial operating of the farm, there wasn’t a piece of farm equipment she didn’t know how to run. Frances was a charter member of Ad-a-Link Club, a group of graduates from Lincoln High School. She attended Peaceful Valley Friends Church in Lynn and was a member of the Peaceful Valley Ladies Aid.

Scholarship recipient must have demonstrated good character and citizenship, participated in extracurricular activities or community activities, and graduated with a 3.5 GPA or higher. 

This scholarship is renewable for four years as long as the student is enrolled as a full-time student at an accredited institution of higher education pursuing a bachelor’s degree, and student meets GPA requirements.

The Malcolm F. and Harriet B. Brown Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, provides financial support ranging from $4,000 to $8,000 over four years to graduating high school seniors from Southeastern Connecticut. Established in 1983, this scholarship aims to encourage students to pursue their educational goals, contributing to over $11.9 million awarded since its inception.

The BK℠ Scholars Program, initiated by the Burger King Foundation, provides scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $60,000 to support high school seniors, restaurant team members, and their dependents in pursuing post-secondary education. Established in 2000, the program aims to empower individuals through education, encouraging leadership and civic engagement while also offering emergency assistance to employees facing hardships. This initiative reflects the Foundation's commitment to education and community empowerment across North America.

The BK℠ Scholars Program, administered by the Burger King Foundation, provides substantial scholarships to support high school seniors and restaurant team members in their pursuit of education. With awards ranging from $1,000 to $60,000, the program focuses on academic merit, community service, and financial need. The Foundation emphasizes empowerment through education, ensuring students can access opportunities that foster personal and community growth. This initiative not only honors co-founder James W. McLamore's legacy but also aims to expand educational access across North America.

The Equitable Excellence Scholarship® Program, administered by Scholarship America, provides 100 annual scholarships of $5,000 to high school seniors with financial need. This program aims to support students as they pursue higher education, with scholarships renewable for up to four years, totaling $20,000 per recipient. Eligible applicants must demonstrate ambition and reside in the U.S. This initiative promotes educational access and equity, celebrating 23 years of empowering students to achieve their dreams.

MetroWest Health Foundation

The MetroWest Health Foundation is an independent health philanthropy whose mission is to improve the health status of the community, its individuals, and families through informed and innovative leadership.

The foundation meets the health needs of our region's residents by supporting community-based and community driven programs. We encourage and foster leadership on critical health issues. We are a grantmaker, convener and facilitator, working to provide resources, information, ideas and advocacy for community change. Since its inception in 1999, the foundation has provided more than $50 million in financial support that helps residents and their families lead healthier lives.

MetroWest Health Foundation: Medical/Clinical Scholarship

Scholarships are provided to students who are residents of one of the 25 towns in our MetroWest service area. Students must be accepted into an eligible medical, or clinical program at an accredited academic institution.

Tuition scholarships are awarded for a maximum of up to $4,000 per academic year. Students can receive a maximum of 4 scholarships. Applicants are eligible to reapply on an annual basis.

The Matthew Chew Memorial Scholarship, established in memory of Matthew Chew, supports students pursuing degrees in the arts, particularly in painting, drawing, or music performance. With an award range of $500 to $1,000, the scholarship aims to assist those from East Lyme, Groton, Ledyard, Montville, New London, Norwich, Stonington, and Waterford. Since 1983, the Community Foundation has awarded significant scholarships to help students achieve their educational goals.

The Michael Todd Gavitt Memorial Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, honors Mike Gavitt's culinary passion and musical talent. Since 1983, the foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships to support students in their educational pursuits. This scholarship is specifically for Eastern Connecticut residents in good academic standing who are pursuing studies in culinary arts, with secondary preference for those studying music. The approximate award is $500.

The Pat & Ernestine Patterson Music Scholarship, established in 1983, offers $500 to graduating seniors of New London High School who show a talent and interest in music, particularly jazz, and plan to attend a 4-year accredited institution. With over $11.9 million awarded in scholarships by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, this scholarship aims to support students in their educational pursuits and foster their musical talents.

Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County 

The mission of the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County is to enhance the quality of life for all residents of our community by fostering philanthropy and stewarding charitable resources. We strive to identify and address the most pressing needs in our area, and to support innovative solutions that create positive, sustainable change. Through partnerships with donors, nonprofits, and other community leaders, we seek to build a thriving, inclusive, and resilient community that provides opportunities for all to succeed.

Angelica G. Muns Nursing Scholarship

The Community Foundation for Ocala Marion County is pleased to administer the Angelica G. Muns Nursing Scholarship.

Mrs. Muns, a United States Airforce Lt. Colonel, was a registered nurse who served during World War II. Her love of her service and her profession led to her desire to establish a nursing scholarship to ensure that those wanting to excel in the field of nursing had the opportunity to attend school to become an RN or BSN.

Mrs. Muns and her husband were provided excellent healthcare in Marion County and her scholarship is established for those students who plan on staying in Marion County and working at a Marion County acute healthcare facility.

Recipients must maintain a 3.0 GPA through the duration of nursing school. 

The Margaret Mary Curtin Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, provides $500 to support female students from Southeastern CT pursuing degrees in government or politics. Since 1983, the Foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships to help students achieve their educational and career goals. Awards are paid directly to colleges by August 1, ensuring timely funding for recipients.

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. 

Carol L. Berthold Scholarship Fund for Dance

For a current year graduating senior who is pursuing a degree in dance at an accredited post-secondary educational institution and demonstrates both financial need and academic excellence. The award is renewable annually, provided the recipient remains enrolled in the dance program and in good academic standing (as defined by the institution).

The Patricia K. Drake Scholarship, established by Bill Mayo to honor his mother-in-law, supports New London high school seniors of color pursuing education in healthcare or human services. Since 1983, the Community Foundation has provided over $11.9 million in scholarships to help students achieve their career goals. Each award is approximately $800, with disbursements to colleges made by August 1. This initiative encourages diversity and empowers future leaders in critical service areas.

The Pfizer Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, provides $1,000 awards to graduating seniors from select high schools in New London County, CT, and Westerly High School, RI, pursuing STEM studies at accredited colleges. Since 1983, the foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships, supporting students in achieving their educational and career goals. Notably, children of Pfizer employees are ineligible for this scholarship.