Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in Ohio

The Leonard Litz Foundation supports LGBTQ+ organizations through grants that promote health, wellness, crisis intervention, racial justice, advocacy, and social assistance. Priority is given to organizations in the northeast U.S. and those serving communities of color and transgender individuals. Applications that clearly link funding requests to specific needs will receive stronger consideration. The foundation aims to foster a supportive environment for the LGBTQ+ community to thrive.

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.

The Brighter Tomorrow Foundation Fund Grant, established in 1989, supports organizations serving individuals with developmental disabilities in Montgomery County. Grants up to $10,000 are available for initiatives focused on housing, lasting equipment, education, and recreation. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and local governmental agencies, while support is not available for capital campaigns or activities outside the county. This grant aims to enhance the quality of life for those with developmental disabilities.

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.

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 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.

Building a global community of creative problem solvers, effective collaborators, and empathetic individuals through theatre

Our Mission and Goals

The Educational Theatre Foundation (ETF) is the philanthropic arm of the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA).

ETF advances the field of educational theatre by broadening representation and increasing access for all. ETF’s programs aim to support students, educators and the field at large by realizing three strategic goals:

• Subsidizing new, emerging, and underserved student theatre programs;
• Creating paths for theatre educators to develop new skills; and
• Commissioning research to showcase the value of a theatre education.

Educator & Program Grants

Giving school theatre programs a boost

The Thespian Growth & Excellence Fund is committed to supporting the ongoing development of theatre programs and the pursuit of excellence for educators, students, schools, and communities by offering a number of grants that assist in EdTA membership, teacher support, and programmatic resources for theatre in schools.

By the end of 2024, the Thespian Growth and Excellence Fund has awarded 349 grants to 276 schools, totaling $286,167 in assistance provided to school theatre programs, many at schools with Title 1 designations.

Educator Support ($500)

Can be used for professional development for theatre educators that would benefit their students, including coursework, EdTA’s Theatre Education Conference registration fees, and related travel expenses.

The Eleanor and Nathan Berry Scholarship, offered by The Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports high school seniors from local towns who aim to pursue a full-time bachelor's degree at accredited institutions. Ideal candidates exhibit strong academic records and personal growth through meaningful activities. Preference is given to those aspiring to careers in medicine or finance, with a personal essay required for application. This initiative highlights the Foundation's commitment to education and community development.

The Festa Italiana Reverend Father Augustine Henry Giusani Humanitarian Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports high school seniors and college students from specific Connecticut towns majoring in social sciences. Preference is given to students of Italian descent and those affiliated with Italian organizations. This scholarship aims to promote academic excellence and cultural heritage, fostering future leaders committed to societal improvement.

The Festa Italiana Reverend Father Augustine Henry Giusani Math & Science Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports high school seniors and college students from select Connecticut towns who are majoring in math, science, or engineering. Preference is given to those of Italian descent and active members of their high school Italian Clubs. This scholarship aims to promote academic excellence while fostering cultural pride and supporting future leaders in technical fields.

The Carl H. & Thelma L. Moherman Stitzlein Scholarship, offered by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools who aspire to major in Agriculture or a related field. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and be accepted into an accredited college or university. This scholarship honors the legacy of Carl and Thelma Stitzlein, who dedicated their lives to promoting quality beef and education in the agricultural community.

Building a global community of creative problem solvers, effective collaborators, and empathetic individuals through theatre

Our Mission and Goals

The Educational Theatre Foundation (ETF) is the philanthropic arm of the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA).

ETF advances the field of educational theatre by broadening representation and increasing access for all. ETF’s programs aim to support students, educators and the field at large by realizing three strategic goals:

• Subsidizing new, emerging, and underserved student theatre programs;
• Creating paths for theatre educators to develop new skills; and
• Commissioning research to showcase the value of a theatre education.

Grants for Educators & Theatre Programs

A core piece of the Educational Theatre Foundation’s work is supporting theatre educators and theatre programs directly. We do this through a series of production and educator grants available to both members of EdTA as well as non-members.

EdTA Membership Grant

Theatre matters.

It belongs in our classrooms and communities – now more than ever. Yet the role of the theatre educator has become increasingly complex, and financial support is often uncertain or even eliminated.

To help meet this moment, the Educational Theatre Foundation is proud to introduce the EdTA Membership Grant.

The Louis P. Gianoli Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports graduating seniors from New Britain High School or E.C. Goodwin Technical High School. This award recognizes students who have demonstrated resilience, personal discipline, and the ability to overcome adversity. Candidates must be recommended by a teacher or guidance counselor to apply. The scholarship aims to empower students in their educational pursuits and personal development.

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 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 Spotlight Funds: Inclusive Classroom Grants support K-12 educators by providing financial assistance to acquire essential tools and materials for diverse classrooms. These grants address inequities based on race, gender identity, and ability, ensuring that all students have the resources they need to succeed. With awards ranging from $500 to $1,000 per educator, the program prioritizes high-needs schools, empowering teachers to create inclusive learning environments that reflect their students' unique backgrounds.

The Shirley Bradway Serafin Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, provides financial support to residents of Northeastern Connecticut pursuing nursing studies. Since 1983, over $11.9 million in scholarships have been awarded to help students achieve their educational goals. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and can receive up to $5,000 over four years, with awards disbursed to colleges by August 1.

About The Community Foundation

The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties is a community-based social impact investor whose mission is to engage, invest, and lead—working toward a vision of community vibrancy with opportunity for all. Our team of experienced staff and dedicated trustees is committed to boldly leading and supporting transformational community investments. We channel charitable contributions from donors through nonprofit partners that are meeting current community needs and steward community resources responsibly to ensure greater capacity for the future.

Adirondack League Club Scholarship

Established by Adirondack League Club to award scholarships to students in the Central Adirondack region of the Adirondack Park.

Candidates are identified by a committee.

Terrance Lavell Winters Memorial Scholarship

The Terrance Lavell Winters Memorial Scholarship was established to honor the life and legacy of a loving son, father, brother and uncle – Terrance Lavell Winters. He was born October 7, 1983 to his parents Barbara Ezell and Ray Henderson. Terrance had one son, Trevontae Lavell Winters, whom he considered his true love.

Sometimes shy, Terrance was loved by his smile. He enjoyed buying cars, repairing them and then selling the vehicles. He was known by his family as “Mr. R.P.M.”

Since Terrance’s passing on April 26, 2005, his mother Barbara has promised to keep his memory alive. To honor her son, Barbara created the Grandma Barb’s World-Class Students program. She bought and filled book bags for nearly 300 students for nine years. Barbara also organized a successful rally, prayer vigil and march to remember and honor her son in April 2015. By establishing this scholarship, Barbara hopes to keep the memories of Terrance alive.

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 Sean Duzant Memorial Scholarship, established in memory of a talented athlete and lab technician, provides $2,000 to students from Southeastern CT pursuing studies in biology or demonstrating excellence in soccer. This scholarship honors Sean's legacy and passion for education, aiming to support those who share his dedication. Since 1983, the Community Foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships, helping students achieve their educational goals and rewarding careers.

The David Jones Peck, MD Scholarship for Health Equity, offered by the American Medical Association Foundation, provides $10,000 in tuition assistance to medical students entering their final year. This scholarship aims to support those dedicated to addressing health disparities and promoting equity in marginalized communities. Open to all eligible students, it underscores the foundation's commitment to fostering diversity in medicine and empowering future healthcare leaders.

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 Dr. Richard Allen Williams & Genita Evangelista Johnson/Association of Black Cardiologists Scholarship offers $5,000 to African American/Black medical students interested in cardiology. This scholarship is part of the AMA Foundation's Physicians of Tomorrow program, which has awarded over $61 million in scholarships since 1950. Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited U.S. medical school and entering their final year. The funds are designated for tuition costs only.

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.