Best Grants for Veteran Nonprofit Organizations in Oregon

About

Mission, Vision & Values

To enhance our community through philanthropy.

We aspire to co-create diverse, meaningful and innovative charitable giving that yields an exponential positive impact within local communities and beyond.

American Legion, Post #11 ROTC Scholarship Fund

About the fund

The American Legion, Post #11 ROTC Scholarship Fund provides an annual award to four ROTC students at Oregon State University; one each for an Army, Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps student. OSU is one of only a small number of universities nation-wide that has all four services represented on campus. The post has awarded these scholarships for many years, but in 2008, Post 11 established an endowment scholarship fund with BCF to ensure these ROTC scholarships would be granted in perpetuity.

About

Mission, Vision & Values

To enhance our community through philanthropy.

We aspire to co-create diverse, meaningful and innovative charitable giving that yields an exponential positive impact within local communities and beyond.

Col Arnold E. "Gene" Bench & Lieutenant Frederick E. Pokorney, Jr. Memorial Scholarship

About the fund

In memory of two Marine veterans, Col Arnold E. “Gene” Bench & Lieutenant Frederick E. Pokorney, Jr., this scholarship is awarded to a future candidate of the USMC ROTC, and to an OSU Marine student who most epitomizes dedication, professionalism, selflessness, and esprit de corps.

The leadership award, in memory of Col Arnold E. “Gene” Bench and funded by the generous donations of Colonel Bench’s family, is presented annually to the OSU Marine student who most epitomizes dedication, professionalism, selflessness, and esprit de corps. The award includes a commissioning packet of Marine Corps emblems and rank insignia, and the recipient’s name is engraved on a plaque permanently displayed in the Naval Armory. The award may go to either a male or female student with selection criteria including, when possible, prior USMC service. The Fund also provides an annual scholarship for a male or female Marine ROTC student in his or her sophomore or junior year at OSU.

This scholarship in memory of Frederick E. Pokorney, Jr. will continue Fred’s legacy as his family’s “Hero” and “Gentle Giant”–he was 6’6”. He was awarded the Silver Star for his bravery in his last moments while leading his Marines in the Battle of An Nasiriyah in Iraq. His commitment to his Marines is embodied with this scholarship award to a future candidate of the USMC ROTC.

His daughter, Taylor, will be given the honor to present this award in her Daddy’s memory to express her love for him, and giving back to his Marines will help heal the tremendous void in her heart.

Fred’s family and friends truly believe that making this positive act from his tragic loss will allow them to hold his love in our hearts forever. The honor, courage, and commitment he had for his Corps will continue through this scholarship.

Fred’s family believes every American should support our future young military leaders of this nation in their hearts and minds, and can do so by supporting such endowments as Fred’s with a small donation. We owe much to those who give their lives so selflessly to protect our freedoms.

About

Mission, Vision & Values

To enhance our community through philanthropy.

We aspire to co-create diverse, meaningful and innovative charitable giving that yields an exponential positive impact within local communities and beyond.

Col. Julian & Rebecca McFadden Memorial Scholarship Fund

About the fund

Rebecca Mary Kawaiala McFadden supported the Air Force mission and heavily supported her husband, contributing to his career success. Traveling and living in some extremely rugged and austere conditions, she made an impression on many associates with her perseverance and “can do” attitude. She was a comfort to the families of many young fighter pilots during difficult times. Rebecca was an inspiration to all who knew her. Following her death on Aug. 17, 1993, Julian helped establish this memorial scholarship fund to further the education of Army and Air Force cadets at Oregon State University.

Col. Julian Robert McFadden died on November 12, 2010. At the request of the family, this scholarship fund was renamed, the “Col. Julian & Rebecca McFadden Memorial Scholarship Fund.”

About

Mission, Vision & Values

To enhance our community through philanthropy.

We aspire to co-create diverse, meaningful and innovative charitable giving that yields an exponential positive impact within local communities and beyond.

Col Donald E. Carter, Lon & Mary Jensen, Helen Kirby ROTC Scholarship

About the fund

After Don E. Carter’s death, his wife Glenna Carter helped fund an endowed ROTC scholarship in Don’s memory. It is fitting that it contributes to youth in military service who desire to serve their country and improve themselves through higher education. Don would have heartily approved of their goals and would have been the first to encourage these young people by offering a helping hand.

Lon and Mary Jensen contributed to this endowed ROTC scholarship fund and are long-time supporters of the education of cadets at OSU and WOC.

Helen Ann Kirby was a life-long learner and a strong believer in education. She worked throughout her life to help people, and will continue to do so through this scholarship gift.

The Schnitzer Foundation CommuniCare Grants aim to foster community-minded leaders among students in Oregon. This year-long program encourages student-directed groups to tackle community issues by raising funds, which are matched 10:1 by the Schnitzer CARE Foundation. Students engage in the grantmaking process, researching and evaluating local nonprofits to fund initiatives that align with their mission. By supporting educational community service, the program inspires the next generation to become active agents of change.

About

Mission, Vision & Values

To enhance our community through philanthropy.

We aspire to co-create diverse, meaningful and innovative charitable giving that yields an exponential positive impact within local communities and beyond.

Holmes Family, Mater Family, Timothy Vevoda Family ROTC Scholarship

About the fund

This fund is a collaboration of families and former service members who donated to honor their loved ones and to support young people who wish to serve their country.

Michael D. Holmes and Kathleen C. McHarness Holmes contributed to this Endowed ROTC Scholarship Fund to honor members of their family who have served in the military and to support and encourage members of Oregon State University ROTC who have chosen the same path. Michael’s and Kathleen’s families have a long history of military service to our country dating back to the American Revolution.

Through three generations, the Mater family has proudly served our country. Milton Mater and his son, Scott Mater, served their country with honor and followed that service with distinguished civilian careers. Scott’s son, Josh Mater, followed his grandfather and father in military service. Josh was commissioned a second lieutenant after graduating from Oregon State University.

The legacy of support to the military is not confined to the Mater men only. Dr. Jean Mater served on the Defense Advisory Committee on Women in the Services in the 1970s and has continued to support military men and women through the Military Officers Club of Corvallis. The ROTC program has played a significant role in the lives the Mater family. It is appropriate that they be honored and remembered with this Endowed ROTC Scholarship Fund.

Timothy A. Vevoda recognizes that the strength of our future rests upon the shoulders of dedicated young people who understand and are active in service to their communities and to their country. This scholarship offers educational support and respect for these well deserving and honorable young Americans.

About

Mission, Vision & Values

To enhance our community through philanthropy.

We aspire to co-create diverse, meaningful and innovative charitable giving that yields an exponential positive impact within local communities and beyond.

Jay and Kelleigh Killen Military Excellence Endowed Scholarship

About the fund

Jay Killen and his wife Kelleigh established the Jay & Kelleigh Killen Military Excellence Endowed Scholarship with Benton Community Foundation in 2012. Jay is a former Navy Aviator and NROTC instructor at OSU. Each year the Scholarship is awarded to a Navy Midshipman who displays excellence in ROTC and academics. 

The Justin D. Cole & Donald R. Meeks, Jr. ROTC Scholarship, established by Benton Community Foundation, aims to recognize dedicated ROTC cadets at Oregon State University and its extension campuses. This scholarship supports students who demonstrate strong leadership, financial need, and good academic standing, ensuring they can continue their education and service. Priority is given to upperclassmen and those nearing graduation, fostering a sense of community and commitment among future leaders.

The LTC David & Dorothy Blasen Memorial Scholarship supports ROTC students at Oregon State University and its extension campuses. Established in 1997 by Lieutenant Colonel David Blasen and his wife, Dorothy, this endowed fund aims to enhance educational opportunities for future military leaders. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need, academic performance, and leadership. Priority is given to upperclassmen and those who have completed ROTC classes. This scholarship fosters a commitment to military service and community leadership.

The Major General Julie Bentz ROTC Scholarship supports ROTC students at Oregon State University and Western Oregon University, honoring Major General Bentz's distinguished military career. Awarded based on financial need, leadership, and academic performance, this scholarship emphasizes the importance of good standing in both the university and the ROTC unit. Eligible candidates must be full-time ROTC students with a minimum GPA. Priority is given to juniors, seniors, and those completing ROTC courses.

Rural Veterans Healthcare Transportation Program

Bridges gaps and resolves barriers between Oregon's veterans living in rural areas and the healthcare benefits they've earned.

This program uses lottery funds from the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs dedicated by the Oregon Legislature. ODOT cannot use these funds for maintenance or agency operations.

Funding

• ​Total amount available: up to $1.109 million

Match Requirements

​There is no local match required for this program. Coordinated applications between STIF Agencies or through purchased services contracts with common providers is encouraged.

The Sundt Foundation, established in 1999, supports local communities by offering grants and volunteer opportunities for 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Focused on youth development, hunger and nutrition, and veteran services, the Foundation prioritizes projects in regions such as the Southwest and Southeast United States. However, they do not fund requests exceeding $25,000 or support multi-year pledges, fundraising events, or political causes. Their mission continues to foster community connections and belonging.

Higher Education Coordinating Commission

The Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) is a State of Oregon agency and Commission working to improve equitable access to and success in higher education and workforce training for Oregonians statewide. We coordinate funding and policy, and convene partners across the public and private higher education and workforce landscape. 

Oregon National Guard State Tuition Assistance

The Oregon National Guard State Tuition Assistance (ONGSTA) program provides funding for current Oregon National Guard Members enrolled in an eligible Oregon postsecondary institutions for undergraduate tuition, certain fees, and a book allowance. The grant can be used for up to 90 credits at Oregon community colleges and up to 180 quarter credits/120 semester credits at eligible Oregon universities and colleges. Award amounts vary depending on the type of institution the student attends and their eligibility for other military tuition assistance. 

Students must apply each year to continue receiving the grant.

Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs

As part of the executive branch of the State of Oregon, ODVA is responsible for veteran advocacy, state programs, access to federal benefits and policy on behalf of Oregon veterans. The major and direct programs that exist within ODVA includes Statewide Veteran Services, Aging Veteran Services, Oregon Veterans' Homes, Oregon Veteran Home Loans, Educational and Emergency Aid, Conservatorship and Representative Payee Services.​

Veteran Services Grant

The purpose of the Veteran Services Grant Program is to fund eligible proposals that provide direct services to veterans that help improve outcomes in areas such as health or behavioral health care, housing security and houselessness, employment opportunities or stability, education and training opportunities, transportation accessibility and availability, or other critical services within a community, region, or statewide basis. 

The Veteran Services Grant is a reimbursement grant.

The Sunstate Equipment Foundation Grants support local charities focused on disadvantaged individuals, medical aid, housing assistance, domestic violence awareness, military and veterans' assistance, and care for abused animals. Founded in 2015, the foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that matches employee contributions dollar for dollar, reinforcing its commitment to community support and engagement. Charities in good standing can apply once every 12 months, fostering impactful initiatives where Sunstate operates.

AmeriCorps Vista

AmeriCorps is the federal agency that improves lives, strengthens communities, and fosters civic engagement through service and volunteering. AmeriCorps brings people together to tackle the country’s most pressing challenges through national service and volunteerism. AmeriCorps members and AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers serve with organizations dedicated to the improvement of communities and those serving. AmeriCorps helps make service a cornerstone of our national culture.

Founded in 1965, AmeriCorps VISTA is a federal anti-poverty national service program designed to provide resources to nonprofit organizations and public agencies to strengthen efforts to address poverty and poverty-related problems in the United States. In 1993, VISTA was incorporated into the AmeriCorps network of national service programs administered by the Corporation for National and Community Service, now known as AmeriCorps.

AmeriCorps VISTA Request for Concept Paper

Projects must be developed in accordance with AmeriCorps VISTA core principles:

• an anti-poverty focus
• community empowerment
• sustainable solutions
• capacity building

Project applications must address one of the following areas:

• Economic Opportunity
• Healthy Futures
• Education
• Veteran and Military Families

About Us

Leadership. Collaboration. Impact.

The Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley helps philanthropists support the causes closest to their heart while connecting local residents to the resources they need for a better quality of life.

Our Mission

To serve as a leader and advocate for strategic philanthropy, partnering with donors to anchor a permanent and growing endowment and making investments in the Mahoning Valley that improve the quality of life for all residents.

Scholarship Opportunities

Your Community, Your Support System

Our community members support hundreds of local students every year through various scholarships facilitated by the Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley.

About The NRA Foundation

The heart of The NRA Foundation’s mission is preserving the core of our American values and traditions in our steadfast effort to Teach Freedom.

The NRA Foundation Supports Freedom, Family, and the Future of the Shooting Sports

Established in 1990, The NRA Foundation, Inc. (“NRA Foundation”) is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization that raises tax-deductible contributions in support of a wide range of firearm-related public interest activities of the National Rifle Association of America and other organizations that defend and foster the Second Amendment rights of all law-abiding Americans.

The heart of The NRA Foundation’s mission is preserving the core of our American values and traditions in our steadfast effort to Teach Freedom.

Established in 1990, The NRA Foundation, Inc. (“NRA Foundation”) is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization that raises tax-deductible contributions in support of a wide range of firearm-related public interest activities of the National Rifle Association of America and other organizations that defend and foster the Second Amendment rights of all law-abiding Americans. These activities are designed to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those participating in the shooting sports, and to educate the general public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context. Funds granted by The NRA Foundation benefit a variety of constituencies throughout the United States including children, youth, women, individuals with physical disabilities, gun collectors, law enforcement officers, hunters and competitive shooters.

Awards

The NRA is proud to recognize the contributions of those who have demonstrated dedication to the promotion of the Second Amendment, significantly impacted the preservation of the shooting sports, advanced the purposes and goals of the NRA and exemplified leadership through public service. Each year, women, youth, clubs, law enforcement officers and NRA Foundation volunteers are awarded for their efforts in pursuit of these principles.

NRA Law Enforcement Officer Of The Year Award

NRA's Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award was established in 1993 and recognizes an exceptional act or service by a law enforcement officer and is administered by the NRA Law Enforcement Division. Nominations are accepted from anyone having knowledge of the nominee's actions. This includes, but is not limited to, the nominee's agency head, other law enforcement officials, elected officials, fellow officers, community leaders, interested citizens, and NRA members.

We are about helping children, right here in Marietta!

Kiwanis Club of Marietta members participate in service projects, hold fundraisers, and change children’s lives in our community. In addition, club members contribute to Kiwanis International initiatives helping clubs around the world assist children with education, basic needs, and medical care.

The Kiwanis Club of Marietta was chartered March 3, 1930 - Marietta, GA.

The Kiwanis Club of Marietta has proudly established and contributed to several scholarship endowments over the years to support deserving college students in our community. These scholarships are made possible through our club's Flag Project, which places over 1,300 American flags in front of homes and businesses five times each year.

Raymond Steve Tumlin Scholarship

This is a memorial scholarship established in 2001 by the Marietta Kiwanis Foundation in honor of the late Raymond Steve Tumlin, Sr., a dedicated Marietta Kiwanian, business, civic, and community leader in Cobb County. 

This scholarship is available to a graduate or undergraduate student entering or attending an accredited college or university (or military college or service academy).

Selection emphasis will be placed on academic achievement and character with priority given to current or former Cobb or Marietta students.

Awards

• $2500

Justamere Foundation

Our goal is to remove barriers that are keeping hard working people from being fully self-sufficient. We support programs that are addressing these obstacles, big and small, in a way that opens a path to self-reliance.

The Justamere Foundation is dedicated to working with our community partners to find innovative ways to help our neighbors through education, coaching, and connections.

Small solutions can result in enormous change. The Justamere Foundation’s mission is to find those needs and connect them to the right resources to make the biggest impact.

Areas of Need We Support

The Justamere Foundation’s mission is to find those areas that are underserved by traditional resources and see if we can make a bigger difference with direct involvement. Solutions might involve grants, non-traditional scholarships or simply making the right connection.

We focus on four main areas of need in our community:

• Trade Education: Individuals working towards obtaining a family-sustaining income encounter many small barriers that can impede their progress. We’ve partnered with local community colleges and organizations that work to eliminate the barriers.
• Veterans Resources: Veterans entering the civilian workforce can struggle to find the right fit. We’re working with organizations to support veterans with this process.
• Childhood Literacy: Reading is essential. Fostering a love of reading and learning opens so many doors as children grow up. We support organizations with programs that focus on education and literacy resources for children in underserved areas.
• Arts Education: Arts programs inspire and help children express themselves. We support summer and after-school programs in music, art, and theatre.

How do we support these areas?

• Non-Traditional Scholarships
• Grants that make a real impact

Non-Traditional Scholarships

There are many traditional Scholarship and Financial Aid resources for high school kids going on to college. This is great but it leaves a whole lot of people out of the solution. Kids who couldn’t go directly to college or didn’t finish highschool – Adults who are in a job that cannot effectively support their family and want to make a change – or anyone simply looking for a better life. The resources available to them are limited. We want to work with organizations that are addressing those challenges and see if there’s a connection to be made, an existing program to utilize or even a new program to be developed.

The Justamere Foundation focuses on removing barriers to self-sufficiency by supporting innovative community programs. They prioritize four key areas: trade education, veterans resources, childhood literacy, and arts education. By providing grants and non-traditional scholarships, the foundation aims to empower individuals and create lasting change. Their mission is to connect underserved communities with essential resources, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

Warrior Assist Foundation

Founded in 2020, Warrior Assist Foundation is dedicated to supporting those who serve or have served in the U.S. armed forces and their families.

Grants

Warrior Assist Foundation offers grants to 501(c)(3) organizations that dedicate at least 85% of their annual expenditures to provide assistance to active duty and reserve military personnel, their spouses and children, veterans, or spouses and children of veterans.

Grand Rapids Community Foundation

Connecting people, passion and resources

The Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that connects people, passion and resources. With our partners, the Community Foundation uses the tools of philanthropy to find solutions to pressing issues. We provide grants to support the work of nonprofits, scholarships to local students and other forms of support to communities working to eliminate barriers to opportunity, prosperity and belonging.

Our Mission is to build and manage our community’s permanent endowment and lead the community to strengthen the lives of its people.

We envision a magnetic and interconnected West Michigan community.

Integrity, Excellence, Inclusion, Sustainability and Bold Aspirations

Give and Receive Openly, Build Trust with Each Other, Create Brave and Safe Space, Embrace Vulnerability, Accountability

Our North Star

For West Michigan to grow and prosper, we must make sure that everyone can apply their talents and creativity to fuel our future. It is only by connecting across perspectives and overcoming inequities that we can build and sustain an inclusive economy and thriving community.

Opportunities for students

Apply for scholarships to support your ambitions

Each year Grand Rapids Community Foundation supports hundreds of students on their college or career training journeys. We are excited to remove barriers to academic success so that students like you can pursue what you're passionate about.

Scholarship Fund Details

Support for West Michigan Students

Attending college or trade school increases opportunity and opens doors to careers. Donor partners who establish a scholarship fund give students a boost on their path to higher education. Students who complete the general scholarship application are considered for these scholarships.

Open to full time undergraduate students who are residents of Kent County, and are a child of a veteran of first responder who was killed or disabled while on duty.

The Armando "Frank" Quaglia Veteran's Scholarship, offered by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, supports full-time graduate or upper-level undergraduate students from Kent or Ionia County pursuing healthcare or engineering degrees. With a minimum 3.0 GPA, preference is given to veterans and their families. This scholarship aims to eliminate barriers to education, fostering academic success and connecting students to opportunities in West Michigan's inclusive community.

South Dakota Community Foundation

As a statewide community foundation, we work with donors, nonprofits and community leaders to strengthen philanthropy in South Dakota every day.

Scholarships

At South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF), we proudly manage more than 350 scholarship funds in partnership with generous donors who are committed to supporting students. These scholarships offer countless opportunities to help ease the financial burden of continuing their education.

Major General Duane L. 'Duke' Corning Scholarship

To provide financial support to scholarships established by the National Guard Association of South Dakota and the South Dakota National Guard Enlisted Association.

The funding for this scholarship endowment is made possible by donations from the South Dakota National Guard Officer and Enlisted Associations, honoring the memory of Major General Duane L. “Duke” Corning. It reflects his love and dedication to these associations, as well as his loyalty, dedication, and service to his state, nation, and fellow individuals.

The Colonel David Marcus Memorial Scholarship Award supports students from Burlington, Camden, or Gloucester Counties pursuing post-high school education, particularly in military programs. Established by the Jewish Community Foundation, this scholarship prioritizes candidates who embody Col. Marcus's ideals. Eligible applicants must be high school seniors and may apply for multiple awards. The fund has a strong community leadership background, managing over $35 million in assets to support educational initiatives.

Our Impact

UNCF was founded in 1944 to help more African American students attend and graduate from college.

Since then, we've helped to more than double the number of minorities attending college.

For Students

UNCF is more than just scholarships. We’re the nation’s leading minority education organization and our goal is to help you get to and through college.

Our support takes many different forms. From merit scholarships to financial assistance, on-campus assistance to professional development, emergency financial aid to community support, UNCF is committed to getting more students like you to and through college.

2026-2027 The RADM (ret.) Jeffrey A. & Linda J. Cook Scholarship

The RADM (ret.) Jeffrey A. & Linda J. Cook Scholarship is a need-based, recurring scholarship for active-duty, retired U.S. military veterans, or their dependents who are enrolled full time and pursuing undergraduate STEM degrees at an accredited HBCU. Recipients will receive a renewable award of up to $4,250 to support them in obtaining their undergraduate degree.

This scholarship is in honor of CPO Arthur A. Cook and Capt. Delbert E. Colwell, the fathers of the Grantors who served honorably during WWII.