Best Quality of Life Grants in Oregon

Seattle Foundation

Seattle Foundation is an agent of change, igniting powerful, rewarding philanthropy to make Greater Seattle a stronger, more vibrant community for all.

At Seattle Foundation, we believe that community is more than a place. It’s the shared understanding that our joy and well-being are tied to one another. Every day we work with nonprofits, philanthropists, and partners like you to strengthen community by igniting powerful philanthropy and advancing long-term solutions. Because it takes all of us to create a joyful region where every person can thrive.

Walter H. Meyer — Garry L. White Memorial Scholarship

This $5,000 scholarship is available to non-traditional students working towards an undergraduate (must be over 24 years old) or graduate (must be over 30 years old) degree.

The Chambers Family Foundation, established in 1999, is a private non-profit based in Eugene, Oregon, committed to enhancing community welfare. It prioritizes funding projects in arts, education, medical, health, and human needs, specifically in Lane and Benton counties. The foundation supports initiatives that align with its values and have a significant community impact. Applications for operating funds are accepted, while capital project funding is considered under special circumstances.

Many BCF scholarships designated for current college students are available only to students at Oregon State University. Exceptions include the Corvallis Woman’s Club Scholarship, which is available to Benton County high school graduates attending any accredited institution of higher learning, and The Tailwinds Fund and Resilience scholarships, which are available to any college students.

Otto J. & Adelia M. Hahn Scholarship Fund

The Otto J. and Adelia M. Hahn Scholarship Fund awards full-tuition scholarships (including books) to Benton County students attending institutions of higher education. “[Otto and Adelia] shared an interest in education, and Otto had always been interested in passing on his knowledge to younger generations,” neighbor and friend Loren Smith, Jr. recalls. The scholarship benefits rural Benton County students pursuing higher education in manual or mechanical arts. Because of Otto’s long involvement with Linn-Benton Community College, priority is given to students attending LBCC.

The NACRJ Mini-Grants provide funding of up to $500 for projects promoting community and restorative justice. Launched in 2016, the initiative has allocated over $60,000 to support NACRJ members nationwide. This unique opportunity fosters impactful projects and enhances visibility within the restorative justice community. Applications are accepted biannually, with a focus on empowering organizations and individuals committed to restorative practices. Members are encouraged to apply for this essential funding to further their meaningful endeavors.

The NACRJ Impact Grant, initiated in 2016, has provided over $60,000 to NACRJ members to support community and restorative justice projects. This grant is available annually, offering up to $3,000 to members for innovative initiatives that foster community impact. By applying, members can gain funding, visibility, and networking opportunities within the NACRJ and the broader restorative justice community, helping to empower meaningful projects that align with restorative justice principles.

Seattle Foundation

Seattle Foundation is an agent of change, igniting powerful, rewarding philanthropy to make Greater Seattle a stronger, more vibrant community for all.

At Seattle Foundation, we believe that community is more than a place. It’s the shared understanding that our joy and well-being are tied to one another. Every day we work with nonprofits, philanthropists, and partners like you to strengthen community by igniting powerful philanthropy and advancing long-term solutions. Because it takes all of us to create a joyful region where every person can thrive.

Nora Stone Smith Scholarship

The Nora Stone Smith Scholarship honors and gives financial support to deserving immigrant high school seniors and students who have graduated in the past year and have participated in an ESL/ELL program at some point in their lives. This scholarship is available for all ESL/ELL students, regardless of their citizenship status. Undocumented students are encouraged to apply. This scholarship is $2,000 and renewable for 2 or 4 years.

The Gainbridge Assists Powered by Parity Grant, in partnership with Parity and the Women’s Sports Foundation, supports girls and women in sports and education. In 2024, $222,000 will be awarded through 32 grants, including a $50,000 grant honoring Billie Jean King. This initiative aims to empower over 5,000 participants, fostering community transformation through sports and educational opportunities.

The Washington Red Raspberry Commission offers research grants to support the advancement of red raspberry cultivation. These grants focus on innovative farming practices, pest management, and cultivar development, aimed at enhancing grower productivity and sustainability. Proposals are evaluated based on their potential impact on the industry, with an emphasis on practical applications. The commission invites researchers from various backgrounds to contribute, ensuring a diverse range of solutions for the challenges faced by raspberry growers.

The Vaccinated & Loved Campaign Grant, offered by Petco Love, supports organizations that provide free vaccine services to communities in need. Eligible applicants include 501c3 nonprofits, government agencies, and invited for-profit companies with a nonprofit purpose related to animal welfare. However, individuals and organizations outside the U.S. or not focused on animal welfare are ineligible for funding. This initiative aims to enhance public health and animal welfare through vaccination efforts.

The Benton Community Foundation Annual Philanthropic Achievement Awards celebrate the power of generosity, honoring visionary leaders in philanthropy and volunteerism.

Outstanding Lifetime Achievement in Philanthropy Award

The Benton Community Foundation Philanthropic Achievement Awards celebrate the power of generosity, honoring visionary leaders in philanthropy and volunteerism. The Outstanding Lifetime Achievement in Philanthropy award recognizes an exceptional individual or family whose philanthropic activities have made a significant positive impact on the community. This award is open to nominees whose leadership and dedication has played a vital role in advancing causes throughout Benton County and surrounding areas.

The APAF: Jeanne Spurlock, M.D. Minority Fellowship Achievement Award, established in 1999, acknowledges the significant contributions of former fellows of the Minority Fellowships to the psychiatry profession and the minority community. This award promotes continued engagement in the fellowship program while honoring Dr. Jeanne Spurlock, the program's founder. It aims to enhance psychiatric education, improve access to quality care, and support the professional needs of its members, fostering collaboration in mental health fields.

The Benton Community Foundation Annual Philanthropic Achievement Awards celebrate the power of generosity, honoring visionary leaders in philanthropy and volunteerism.

Outstanding Nonprofit Professional Award

The Benton Community Foundation Philanthropic Achievement Awards celebrate the power of generosity, honoring visionary leaders in philanthropy and volunteerism. The Outstanding Nonprofit Professional award recognizes an exceptional local nonprofit professional whose bold ideas, passion, and dedication have inspired others to give, collaborate, and create a lasting impact in our community. This award is open to nominees whose leadership and dedication has played a vital role in advancing the mission of nonprofits throughout Benton County and surrounding areas. 

The Benton Community Foundation Annual Philanthropic Achievement Awards celebrate the power of generosity, honoring visionary leaders in philanthropy and volunteerism.

Outstanding Philanthropic Business Award

The Benton Community Foundation Philanthropic Achievement Awards celebrate the power of generosity, honoring visionary leaders in philanthropy and volunteerism. The Outstanding Philanthropic Business award goes to a community-minded business who donates their time, expertise, and energy without compensation and shows significant dedication to advancing the mission of the organizations with whom they choose to partner. This award is open to nominees who conduct business throughout Benton County and surrounding areas.

The Aarón Sánchez Impact Fund, a program of the Emeril Lagasse Foundation, aims to uplift Latino youth through food. This grant offers up to $20,000 to non-profit organizations focused on nutrition education and food access for youth aged 0-18. Eligible applicants must have 501c3 status and serve a community where at least 60% of the population is Latino. This fund is by invitation only, encouraging innovative projects that align with its mission.

About

Founded in 1971, the Mensa Foundation was established by members of American Mensa to extend the organization’s impact. While connected by a shared purpose, the Foundation operates independently, guided by its own Board of Trustees, strategic plan, and initiatives.

Awards

Excellence in Research

The Mensa Foundation’s Awards for Excellence in Research recognize researchers who are building new knowledge in intelligence.

Presented annually, these awards honor exceptional work published in peer-reviewed journals or presented at professional conferences.

Details

A prestigious recognition in the field, the Awards for Excellence in Research celebrate innovative contributions that redefine how intelligence, giftedness, and related fields are studied and applied.

Award Components

Criteria for Entry

About the Awards

The Benton Community Foundation’s Philanthropic Achievement Awards brings together nonprofit leaders, business leaders, and community members to recognize outstanding achievements in philanthropy in Benton County.

The event showcases the hard work of our talented, generous community, and celebrates the people and organizations that volunteer, donate, and inspire others to create a bright future for families and children.

Outstanding Volunteer 

The Benton Community Foundation Philanthropic Achievement Awards celebrate the power of generosity, honoring visionary leaders in philanthropy and volunteerism. The Outstanding Volunteer award goes to a volunteer who donates their time, expertise, and energy without compensation and shows significant dedication to advancing the mission of the organizations with whom they choose to partner. This award is open to nominees who have volunteered with organizations throughout Benton County and surrounding areas.

About the Awards

The Benton Community Foundation’s Philanthropic Achievement Awards brings together nonprofit leaders, business leaders, and community members to recognize outstanding achievements in philanthropy in Benton County.

The event showcases the hard work of our talented, generous community, and celebrates the people and organizations that volunteer, donate, and inspire others to create a bright future for families and children.

Outstanding Volunteer Group Award

The Benton Community Foundation Philanthropic Achievement Awards celebrate the power of generosity, honoring visionary leaders in philanthropy and volunteerism. The Outstanding Volunteer Group award goes to a group of volunteers who donates their time, expertise, and energy without compensation and shows significant dedication to advancing the mission of the organizations with whom they choose to partner. This award is open to nominees who have volunteered with organizations throughout Benton County and surrounding areas.

The Hanger Foundation's Veteran Grant aims to empower veterans facing physical challenges by providing support for rehabilitation services and athletic programs. This grant seeks to positively impact veterans' lives, particularly those with limb differences, through community engagement and employee involvement in charitable efforts. With a focus on 501(c)(3) organizations, the foundation invests in projects that address trauma and promote social activities, ensuring that veterans receive the assistance they need.

The Alaska Community Foundation

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives.

Scholarships at ACF

Each year, more than 60 scholarships are available to Alaska students—and it all starts with one simple application. With one login and one application, you’ll be considered for every scholarship you may be eligible for. Whether you’re taking your first step toward college, training for a career, or continuing your education, these scholarships are here to help carry you forward, backed by donors who believe in Alaska’s students and the futures they’re building. 

CARTA Scholarship Endowment Fund - Liability

Central Alaska Retired Teachers' Association Scholarship Fund was established to provide financial support for undergraduate and graduate students majoring in education or working towards certifications that will enable them to become teachers or administrators in the public schools.

The Jimmy A. Young Memorial Education Recognition Award, offered by the American Respiratory Care Foundation, honors contributions to respiratory care education. Up to $1,000 is available for students enrolled in accredited respiratory care programs, provided they meet GPA requirements and submit necessary recommendations. This award includes a certificate, airfare, lodging, and registration for the AARC Congress, aiming to support deserving candidates in their educational pursuits.

The Cognitive Neuroscience (CogNeuro) Program by the National Science Foundation aims to fund proposals that deepen our understanding of the neural mechanisms of cognition and behavior. Successful applications will connect physiology, cognition, and behavior while also promoting outreach and mentoring within the field. Research topics include action, perception, memory, and decision-making. The program encourages broader impacts such as STEM outreach and public engagement in research, with a focus on diverse communities.

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI

At the Community Foundation for Mason County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues. As a leader in community philanthropy, building a vibrant community with great opportunities for all, we are focused on advancing education, increasing recreation opportunities, and community and economic development.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Robert J. and Norma E. Bazzett Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Robert J. and Norma E. Bazzett, who established the Robert J. and Norma E. Bazzett Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Mason County.

Robert, a 1959 graduate of Ludington High School, said he always had the idea in the back of his mind to establish a scholarship fund for the “average” student. “I always felt there was a need for that,” Robert said, “because there are a lot of kids like me that were just average C students in high school. We were cut out of the scholarship picture because our grades weren’t good enough, but that didn’t mean we were not worthy of a scholarship.”

The Dermatology Foundation offers a Research Grant of $25,000 annually to support innovative projects in dermatology and cutaneous biology. This funding is aimed at junior investigators in the early stages of their academic careers who demonstrate a strong commitment to skin research. Eligible applicants must conduct research within ACGME-approved departments in the U.S. and must not have received funding from other sources for the same project.

The NBRC William W. Burgin, Jr., MD and Robert M. Lawrence, MD Education Recognition Award, offered by the American Respiratory Care Foundation, provides up to $7,500 to third or fourth-year students in accredited respiratory therapy programs. This prestigious award includes a recognition certificate, travel expenses, and registration for the AARC Congress, supporting future leaders in respiratory care. Eligible students must demonstrate academic excellence and obtain letters of recommendation to showcase their potential.

The Charles D. McArthur Memorial Scholarship recognizes outstanding third and fourth-year students in accredited respiratory therapy programs. Funded by the American Respiratory Care Foundation, this award honors Charlie McArthur's legacy as a dedicated educator in respiratory care. Recipients may receive up to $1,000, including a certificate, travel, and registration for AARC Congress. Preference is given to Native American students or those from Minnesota, fostering diversity in the field of respiratory therapy.

The NBRC Gareth B. Gish Memorial Postgraduate Education Recognition Award, offered by the American Respiratory Care Foundation, honors the legacy of Gareth B. Gish, a pioneer in respiratory care. This award supports respiratory therapists pursuing advanced degrees, providing up to $5,000 in funding, along with recognition, airfare, lodging, and Congress registration. Established in 1999, it seeks to nurture future leaders in the field, continuing Mr. Gish's commitment to education and excellence in respiratory care.

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI

At the Community Foundation for Mason County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues. As a leader in community philanthropy, building a vibrant community with great opportunities for all, we are focused on advancing education, increasing recreation opportunities, and community and economic development.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Adam Murphy Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Memorial Medical Center West Michigan Medical Staff for Tim and Anne Murphy, who created the Adam Murphy Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Mason County.

Adam was a gifted and talented young man. He had a sharp wit and a sense of humor. Adam was a beloved student at Ludington Area Catholic School, where he attended through the eighth grade, and was a freshman at Ludington High School at the time of his passing. He was a board designer and a member of the Varsity Quiz Bowl Team at Ludington High School. Adam actively participated in Spelling Bees and Math Counts and was a state finalist in the You Be the Chemist competition. Family and Faith were also of the utmost importance in his life.