Best Quality of Life Grants in North Carolina

The Pittsburgh Foundation

Established in 1945, The Pittsburgh Foundation is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and as of 2022 is the 18th largest of more than 750 similar foundations across the United States.

As a community foundation, its resources comprise endowment funds established by individuals, businesses and organizations with a passion for charitable giving and fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of improving quality of life for all in the region. The Foundation currently manages about 2,500 individual donor funds and, together with its supporting organizations and its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, has assets of $1.386 billion (2022). Grantmaking benefits a broad spectrum of basic needs and development opportunities within Pittsburgh and beyond.

Scholarships

The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County provide scholarship opportunities for local students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four-year universities and career/technical schools.

Dr. Matthew R. Hadley Scholarship Fund

The Dr. Matthew R. Hadley Scholarship Fund was established at The Pittsburgh Foundation to provide scholarships awarded to one or more graduating seniors from McKeesport Area, Clairton City, Steel Valley, South Allegheny or East Allegheny High Schools.

Award Type: Single-Year Award

Daviess County Community Foundation

The Community Foundation is a charitable resource devoted to our local community. We help people make meaningful gifts that improve life in Daviess County, Indiana today and for generations to come.

The Community Foundation can help you...

• Make a difference where it matters
• Invest in the future of the community you love
• Create greater good together

Ronald Frette and Ann Frette 4-H Scholarship

Annual scholarship created by the Daviess County 4-H Club Association in honor of long-time supporters, Ronald and Ann Frette.

Award Amount

• $4,330 (multiple scholarships may be awarded from this amount).

The NIOSH Support for Conferences and Scientific Meetings (R13) program aims to fund high-quality scientific gatherings that enhance occupational safety and health research. It supports meetings that align with NIOSH's mission and priorities, encouraging the exchange of information on relevant topics. Applications should focus on advancing research in these areas, fostering collaboration among professionals. Note that training-only events are not eligible for funding under this program.

The NIOSH Support for Conferences and Scientific Meetings (U13) program aims to fund high-quality scientific gatherings that advance research in occupational safety and health. By promoting collaboration among experts, this program supports workshops and conferences aligned with NIOSH mission priorities. Federal involvement is significant, ensuring guidance and coordination throughout the award process. Applications for training-only events are not eligible, emphasizing the focus on comprehensive scientific discourse.

The Occupational Safety and Health Research (R01) grant aims to enhance understanding of workplace hazards, develop strategies to mitigate risks, and translate research into effective prevention measures. This initiative encourages applicants to address specific occupational health challenges and articulate the anticipated outcomes of their research, contributing to the reduction of work-related illnesses and injuries. By fostering innovative solutions, this grant supports the mission of NIOSH and promotes safer working environments.

Chris & Gene Smith "Get and Education" Memorial

To provide financial support to graduates who reside in Hand County.

Chris and Gene were born and raised in Hand County. They encouraged their children with what could be referred to as their family motto, “get an education” as that is something that cannot be taken away from you. As a result, all their children and grandchildren have received post-secondary educations.

Who We Are

The Unitarian Universalist Funding Program (UUFP) is a denominational grantmaking program of the Unitarian Universalist Association. Inspired by the richness and diversity of our liberal religious tradition, the mission of the UUFP is to promote the influence of Unitarian Universalist principles through grantmaking.

With funds generously provided by the Unitarian Universalist Veatch Program at Shelter Rock, the UUFP awards grants to Unitarian Universalist (UU) and non-UU projects and organizations. Grants are made that:

• Support the work of social justice.
• Strengthen Unitarian Universalist institutions.
• Transform gratitude for being into generosity of living.

Get Out The Vote - 2026

The Fund for UU Social Responsibility has increased funding for grants to UU congregations and organizations working to Get Out The Vote in 2026. Grants of up to $1,000 will be made on a rolling basis until funds are depleted.  

Please note that funds must go to a UU congregation or organization for the work by UUs of the organization. The funds may not be passed through to another organization. Collaboration and partnerships are encouraged.

UU congregations and organizations frequently support the democratic process in an election cycle in a non-partisan* manner by participating in voter registration drives, organizing to stop voter suppression, providing non-partisan educational materials or forums for voters, or by volunteering to help registered voters get to the polls on election day.

The Farmers Advocating for Organic Grant (FAFO) supports impactful projects that enhance the organic agricultural sector, focusing on initiatives that assist family farmers and promote organic soil health. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations and research institutions. FAFO prioritizes projects that address the needs of organic dairy, meat, and produce farmers while fostering cooperative growth. This grant aims to strengthen the organic industry and ensure the livelihood of organic farmers across the nation.

The Mary Elizabeth Martin Scholarship Trust, established in 1961, provides financial support for students pursuing higher education in the U.S. Managed by US Bank and the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation, this private foundation awards scholarships ranging from $500 to $3,000 annually. Eligible recipients include organizations exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, ensuring that funds are allocated for charitable and educational purposes.

American Chemical Society

The American Chemical Society (ACS) is a non-profit organization founded in 1876 and chartered by the U.S. Congress. ACS is committed to improving all lives through the transforming power of chemistry. Our mission is to advance scientific knowledge, empower a global community, and champion scientific integrity. Our vision is a world built on science.

What We Do

More than 145 years after our founding, we remain a champion for chemistry, its practitioners and our global community of members.

We’re recognized as a leading publisher of authoritative scientific information. Our 80+ peer-reviewed journals are ranked the “most-trusted, most-cited and most-read.”

We empower our members to advance chemistry, elevate their career potential, expand their networks, inspire future generations, collaborate globally and build communities that provide scientific solutions.

We provide broader networks that facilitate connections and open doors in a way no other professional organization can match!

ACS Award for Team Innovation

Purpose

To highlight the value and importance of technical teams and teamwork to the chemical and allied industries by recognizing a multidisciplinary team for successfully moving an innovative idea to a product in commercial use now.

The award was established in 1994 with financial support from the Committee on Corporation Associates of the American Chemical Society.

Description

The award will consist of a cash award of $6,000 which will be shared equally by all team members. Each team member will receive a certificate and a certificate will also be provided to the employers of the team.

Community Foundation of Northern Nevada

Established in 1998 as a Nevada nonprofit 501(c) 3 Corporation, the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada has distributed more than $200 million in grants and scholarships from over 300 charitable funds to strengthen our Nevada home. 

Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Northern Nevada’s Scholarship Program is intended to help students cover the ever-increasing cost of tuition. Some of our scholarships are based on financial need, but others represent an award for achievement. These scholarships typically go to students who have excelled in an academic area or have shown they can balance academics, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities. There are also scholarships designated for students who have overcome adversity, students pursuing degrees in high-need areas, and adult learners outside the traditional college age group. Community Foundation scholarships can help cover tuition, books, and on-campus housing.

Orville Belding Memorial Scholarship

You are eligible to apply for the Orville Belding Memorial Scholarship if you meet all of the following criteria:

• You are a student-athlete
• You were born and raised in Nevada
• Your family income shows a need for tuition assistance
• You are a Washoe County High School senior
• You have a minimum 1100/SAT or 20/ACT score
• You agree to maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA and provide a copy of your unofficial transcripts at the end of each semester you are receiving a scholarship

R. Kubly Family Foundation

The goal of the R. Kubly Family Foundation is to enhance the quality of life in Monroe, Wisconsin by empowering educated and leadership-focused individuals who live and work in the Monroe area.

Scholarship Loan Program

The R. Kubly Family Foundation makes low interest loans to qualified individuals for use in paying their school tuition for graduate, professional, or certain undergraduate degrees through the Scholarship Loan Program. The Foundation will forgive those loans if the individual lives and works in the Monroe, Wisconsin area for five years after graduation. See the Program Detail & Policies PDF for more information. 

Scholarship Loan Program applications are accepted throughout the year.

Mid Shore Community FoundationMid-Shore Community Foundation awards scholarships to high school seniors in Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot Counties, who are planning to attend a college, university, or trade school. In general, scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate academic achievement, community service, financial need, and other criteria specified by the donor.

The Foundation awards scholarships to high school seniors through a pooled scholarship application - students complete one online application in consideration for all scholarships to which they meet eligibility. All applications are reviewed and considered by the Foundation’s Scholarship Committee. Frederick Douglass Scholarship (2026-07-27)Awarded to students graduating from high schools in Talbot County. 

Who We Are & What We Do

On November 26, 1997, a small group of citizens with an abundance of enthusiasm embarked on a mission to secure the quality of life in our region now and forever. By yearend, they had a modest $1,050. Through commitment and vision, the Quincy Area Community Foundation expanded and grew to become the Community Foundation Serving West Central Illinois & Northeast Missouri.

Serving 12 counties on both sides of the Mississippi River, we operate as a bridge between our donors’ charitable visions and the nonprofit organizations that bring those visions to life. 

Scholarship Opportunities

Community Foundation scholarships are offered annually for high school and college students throughout our region. Each scholarship has its own eligibility requirements.

John Petty Trade School Scholarship Fund

Grants Awarded

• Spring.
• $1,000 awarded, renewable for one additional year.

The Administration for Children and Families invites applications for Head Start and/or Early Head Start services in Cabarrus County, NC. With an annual funding of $1,270,165, this opportunity supports organizations aiming to aid local families and children. Interested parties can reach out to the OHS Operations Center or visit relevant links for comprehensive application guidance. This initiative emphasizes community involvement and aims to enhance early childhood education and support services.

The Christopher Day Memorial Scholarship is offered by the Crown Point Community Foundation to support graduating high school seniors pursuing a degree in Culinary Arts. Applicants must be accepted into an accredited program. This non-renewable scholarship aims to assist students with financial needs while encouraging involvement in the ProStart program. The foundation manages over 80 scholarship funds, ensuring that community-driven financial support is directed to those who meet specific criteria.

Wright Coating Company Scholarship

Wright Coating Company established this scholarship fund in 1991 for the purpose of providing financial assistance to college‑bound youth residing on the north side of Kalamazoo.

KZCF scholarships may be applied to any items under your school’s cost of attendance (COA). Each school has a different COA that may include items such as tuition, fees, housing, transportation, food, health insurance, etc. Scholarship payments are sent directly to your institution.

This scholarship is a one-time award, meaning that it will not repeat in subsequent years. The money awarded can be applied to your education costs alongside other scholarships or funding that you may receive, and there are no necessary steps once funds are sent.

The Kids Run the Nation Grant Fund, managed by the RRCA, offers financial support to running clubs, schools, and nonprofits that promote inclusive youth running programs. Since 2007, the fund has awarded over $385,000 to 495+ programs, helping more than 198,500 children embrace running. Grants between $500 and $1,000 are available for structured, gender-inclusive programs that meet specific criteria, encouraging healthy lifestyles and regular participation in running activities.

The Baskin Family Foundation Grant supports innovative organizations that focus on education and social justice. Established by Samuel and Hadassah Baskin, Sheldon Baskin, and Judy Wise, this grant aims to empower 501(c)(3) organizations to create meaningful change in their communities. By promoting forward-thinking initiatives, the foundation strives to enhance the lives of those it serves and foster equality in access to education.

The John O. Behrens Institute for Land Information Memorial Scholarship aims to support undergraduate students pursuing education in geospatial science or land information systems. Awarded by the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS), it provides a $3,000 grant and a one-year student membership in ASPRS. This scholarship honors Mr. Behrens' significant contributions to the field, encouraging students to excel in a profession that enhances the value of geospatial disciplines.

The L. Jane Keene Memorial Scholarship, administered by the Crown Point Community Foundation, aims to support graduating high school seniors and college students from Crown Point or the Crown Point Community School District. This scholarship offers financial assistance to meet various community needs while fostering educational advancement. Selection is based on donor-specified criteria, ensuring that resources are aligned with the aims of both students and the community.

The Folded Flag Foundation offers educational scholarships for college-bound spouses and children of U.S. military members and government employees who died due to combat-related incidents. This program supports tuition, fees, and living expenses for eligible applicants under 26 years old. It aims to assist families in achieving educational goals while navigating the challenges of loss. The scholarships cover various educational expenses, ensuring access to both college and technical training opportunities.

The Karen and Cornel Raab Scholarship, administered by the Crown Point Community Foundation, offers financial support to graduating high school students from Crown Point, Cedar Lake, or Lowell with a minimum GPA of 2.8. This non-renewable scholarship aims to assist students in achieving their educational goals. The foundation oversees over 80 scholarship funds, ensuring resources are allocated to meet the diverse needs of the community.

The General Montgomery (Monty) C. Meigs Scholarship, offered by the Folded Flag Foundation, honors individuals who embody Monty Meigs' exceptional leadership and dedication. This scholarship is available to high school and college students who display academic excellence and commitment to service. Applicants must submit academic records, a recommendation letter, and a personal essay. Designed to support the next generation of leaders, this scholarship reflects Monty's legacy of service and achievement.

Through the generosity of fundholders and donors, NCCF has awarded more than half a million dollars in scholarships to assist students in Northwest Connecticut with the cost of higher education.

NCCF awards more than $530,000 in scholarships a year. 

SVNA Educational Enrichment Program Scholarship 

Academic Focus:

• Health care professionals pursuing continued education in a health care field, except pre-med

Award Average:

• $10, 000 renewable up to 4 years

Consistent with the SVNA’s mission to provide the best home health, hospice and preventative care, this scholarship supports health care professionals pursuing continued education in a health care field who reside in Canaan, Cornwall, Goshen, Kent, Norfolk, North Canaan, Salisbury, Sharon or Warren. 

The PEN America: Phyllis Naylor Grant for Children’s and Young Adult Novelists awards $5,000 annually to authors of children's or young adult fiction. This grant supports writers at critical stages in their careers, specifically for a novel-in-progress. Candidates must have published works that received positive critical reception but limited sales. Self-published works and collaborative manuscripts are ineligible, ensuring that the grant focuses on authors with established literary merit.

The Slater Excellence in Teaching Award, offered by the Polk County Community Foundation, supports certified classroom teachers and media specialists in Polk County and Landrum. This program encourages professional growth by funding attendance at educational conferences and unique travel experiences related to their curriculum. The aim is to enhance classroom teaching through innovative learning opportunities. Eligible applicants must work directly with students and submit individual applications, ensuring impactful teaching practices in the local community.