Best Quality of Life Grants in Oregon

The Tailored for Troops Grant Program, initiated by the Disabled Veterans National Foundation, provides essential business attire to veterans seeking employment. This initiative addresses the unique challenges veterans face in the job market, including unemployment and the need for proper attire. By partnering with organizations that offer employment services, the program ensures that veterans receive necessary support in their transition to civilian careers, ultimately aiding in reducing homelessness among veterans.

PetSmart Charities

We’re proud to celebrate over 30 years of being the leading funder of animal welfare in communities across North America. Since 1994, we’ve granted over $600 million to change-making organizations that help transform the lives of pets and those who love them.

Our Mission: We make the world a better place for pets by investing in community partners that advocate and care for the well-being of pets and all who love them.

Adoption Growth Grants 

Purpose

Adoption Growth grants drive lifesaving outcomes by supporting successful, sustainable in-store adoption programs, events, and results in partnership with PetSmart stores.

Funding Support

Funding may be used for costs associated with building or enhancing your organization’s adoption program in partnership with PetSmart stores, including:

• Staff positions supporting in-store adoption programs and events.
• Marketing and advertising for in-store adoption programs.
• Volunteer or foster support, incentives, and recruitment related to in-store adoption events.
• Event supplies, including containment and enrichment materials.
• Shelter software and technology needs.
• Vehicle repairs or transportation to adoption events.
• Innovative in-store adoption ideas and pilot programs.
• Other costs directly associated with facilitating PetSmart adoptions and in-store events.

There are two Cohorts under this funding: Cohort 1-  Accelerating in-store adoptions; and Cohort 2: Capacity Building.

Cohort 1- Accelerating in-store Adoptions

Applicants must have completed 500 or more adoptions in a PetSmart store in the U.S. within the last 12 months.

Preference will be given to organizations that demonstrate a clear plan to expand an existing in-store adoption program or introduce new in-store adoption models that will increase adoptions.

Four Required Steps

Applicants must complete all four required steps below before submitting a grant application:

• Step 1 - Watch the kick-off video and complete the Adoption Accessibility Questionnaire
• Step 2 - Confirm eligibility and connect with your Adoptions Grant Manager: After completing the questionnaire, you will receive an email confirming your eligibility. Eligible partners will be invited to a call with their Adoptions Grant Manager to discuss the grant opportunity, expectations, and potential fit.
• Step 3 - Engage your PetSmart store partners: Discuss your intent to apply, align on goals, and gain their commitment to support the success of your in-store adoption program.
• Step 4-  Submit your application.

The Polaris Trails Grants Program, launched in January 2006, supports off-road and snow clubs across the U.S. and Canada. This pioneering initiative funds projects that promote safe riding, trail preservation, and environmental protection. Organizations can receive up to $10,000 for trail development, safety initiatives, and maintaining land access. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(7) organizations, while funds are not available for politically or religiously affiliated programs.

The Dr. A. Jean Ayres Doctoral Candidate Scholarship, funded by The American Occupational Therapy Foundation, supports emerging OT scientists focusing on sensory integration and processing research. This $5,000 scholarship aids doctoral candidates in conducting impactful studies, contributing to the field of occupational therapy and enhancing care delivery. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a doctoral program, have defended their dissertation proposal, and conduct research at a US institution. The scholarship emphasizes the importance of evidence-based practices for underserved communities.

The Jane C. Waldbaum Archaeological Field School Scholarship, established by the Archaeological Institute of America, supports students participating in archaeological fieldwork for the first time. With a funding amount of $1000, this scholarship is aimed at junior and senior undergraduates and first-year graduate students who are studying archaeology or related disciplines. Eligible applicants must be at least 18 years old and demonstrate academic achievement and financial need.

The Dr. Carolyn Baum Cognitive Function in Daily Life Mentor Award, funded by the American Occupational Therapy Foundation, supports mid-to senior-level occupational therapy researchers mentoring assistant professors or post-doctoral fellows. This $10,000 stipend aims to enhance understanding of cognition's role in daily life through research. Dr. Carolyn Baum, a pioneer in the field, inspires this initiative, promoting the advancement of functional cognition in occupational therapy.

The MPS Mathematical Sciences Research Programs (MPS MathSci) by the NSF supports diverse research initiatives in theoretical and applied mathematical sciences. Key areas include Algebra, Applied Mathematics, Combinatorics, and Mathematical Biology. The program encourages groundbreaking foundational research with flexible budgets and durations. Proposals do not need to promise immediate outcomes, allowing researchers to explore innovative concepts without the pressure of commercial viability.

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

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.

Shaw Family Trust

The Shaw Family Trust was created at The Pittsburgh Foundation to provide scholarships to high school seniors entering their freshman year of college at Penn State Beaver or Community College of Beaver County.

Award Type: Renewable (up to 4 years. Student must maintain a 3.0 GPA.)

The American Urological Association Rising Stars in Urology Research Award supports physician-scientists in their journey to become independent researchers in urology. By providing supplemental salary support for up to five years, the program ensures awardees maintain protected research time while receiving competitive compensation. This initiative encourages promising researchers to compete for further funding and enhances their training in urologic research, ultimately advancing the field and improving patient care.

The BJA FY 2026 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program—State Formula aims to enhance public safety through formula funding to states. This initiative supports hiring personnel and acquiring vital resources for law enforcement and criminal justice systems. Eligible state agencies can apply for grants to address various public safety challenges, including violent crime and human trafficking, ensuring the protection of American citizens. Applications are due by September 25, 2026.

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.

Michael T. Abel Scholarship Fund

The Michael T. Abel Scholarship Fund was created at The Pittsburgh Foundation in memory of Michael, to assist Free Church students who are entering an undergraduate program at either Grove City or Geneva College.

Award Type: Single Year. Previous recipients are encouraged to re-apply in consecuti

The American Urological Association's Research Scholar Award offers $40,000 annually for one or two years of mentored research training. This program aims to attract promising young investigators into urologic research, providing essential support to clinical and postdoctoral fellows within five years of completing their doctorate or residency and early career faculty within their first five years. This funding opportunity is crucial for fostering the next generation of urologic researchers.

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.

Shirley Lewis McCune Memorial Scholarship

The Shirley Lewis McCune Memorial Scholarship was established at The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County in memory/honor of Shirley Lewis McCune. Her family chose to honor Shirley, who worked for Columbia Gas for many years and was the first female District Manager for the company here in Southwestern Pennsylvania.

Award Type: Single-Year award. Previous recipients are encouraged to re-apply in consecutive years provided they maintain full-time enrollment.

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.

Gladys R. and Charles E. Yost Memorial Fund

The Gladys R. and Charles E. Yost Memorial Fund was created at The Pittsburgh Foundation to provide educational assistance to incoming freshman at Carnegie Mellon University, Duquesne University, or University of Pittsburgh.

Award Type: Renewable award.

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.

Sophie M. and John F. Yoney Scholarship Fund

The Sophie M. and John F. Yoney Scholarship Fund was established at The Pittsburgh Foundation by the late Mr. John F. Yoney, to provide to graduates from Chartiers-Houston High School, Peters Township High School and Canon McMillan High School.

Award Type: Single-Year Award

The Sara Corrie Memorial Grants, administered by the National Speleological Society, support group cave exploration in the U.S. and its territories. Up to six grants of $1,000 each are awarded annually to NSS members. Applications must detail exploration plans, including costs for necessary equipment. Grants are not provided for activities outside of exploration. Successful recipients must report findings and may have their proposals published on the NSS website.

The Jack and Jill of America Foundation offers STEM Grants aimed at supporting 501(c)(3) organizations that enhance opportunities for African American middle and high school students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. The grants focus on creating a pipeline of talent for college readiness, aligning with the foundation's mission to invest in programs that benefit children and families. Eligible organizations must adhere to specific funding priorities and are encouraged to submit impactful proposals.

Southern California Kids to Parks Grants Program

National Park Trust is thrilled to offer the 2026 Southern California Kids to Parks Grants Program. Open to Title I schools (40% of students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch) based in the Southern California Edison service area (Map of Eligible Locations) for grades 3 through 12, this grant program provides classrooms with up to $1,500 for in-park experiences. While grant requests for all types of park visits are welcome, applicants are encouraged to consider trips to historical sites in honor of the celebration of our country's 250th birthday in 2026.

Funding can be used towards program fees, transportation costs, stewardship supplies, and any other materials needed for a robust learning experience.

This grant is designed to be student-driven, and student-teacher collaboration is a must. All applications must include a stewardship element and a park-themed educational component that focuses on either outdoor recreation and healthy lifestyles, environmental education/science, or history.

Teachers may submit the application on behalf of their class, but direct student involvement in the application is required.

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 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.

Bradley “Ace” Schaffner Scholarship Fund

The Bradley “Ace” Schaffner Scholarship Fund was created at The Pittsburgh Foundation in honor of Ace by his parents to provide scholarships for students living in Southwestern Pennsylvania who are pursing a 4-year liberal arts degree.

Award Type: Single Year. Previous recipients are encouraged to re-apply in consecutive years.

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.

College Club of Pittsburgh Scholarship Fund

The College Club of Pittsburgh Scholarship Fund was created at The Pittsburgh Foundation to provide scholarships for students who have faced social, economic, or educational barriers due to systemic gender inequity, and who were born, lived in or went to school in Western PA to provide support for continuing education.

Award Type: Single Year Award. Previous recipients are encouraged to re-apply in consecutive years.

The American Urological Association's Residency Research Award supports urology residents in their research training, aimed at fostering future leaders in urologic research. Each award provides $10,000 for essential research supplies and resources for projects lasting 3-12 months. Recipients must dedicate 80% of their time to research during this period, ensuring they build a strong foundation for their research careers.

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.

Westmoreland Education Fund

The Westmoreland Education Fund was created at The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County to provide scholarships to traditional and non-traditional students who reside in Westmoreland County.

Award Type: Renewable award.

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.

William and Muriel Reynolds Moreland Scholarship Fund

The William and Muriel Reynolds Moreland Scholarship was established at The Pittsburgh Foundation to honor William H. Moreland and Muriel Reynolds Moreland in appreciation of their lifetime commitment to the citizens of the Borough of Dormont, Pennsylvania. This scholarship supports graduating seniors who are residents of Dormont Borough and are continuing their education in a post secondary accredited program. Applicants should demonstrate service to others through their school, church and community.

Award Type: Single-Year Award. Previous recipients are encouraged to re-apply.

The American Urological Association offers Medical Student Fellowships to enhance urological research. This program allows exceptional medical students to engage in mentored research with leading urologic scientists, receiving a stipend of $4,000. The initiative aims to cultivate the next generation of urologic researchers. Importantly, research projects no longer require a full 10-week commitment during summer, providing greater flexibility for participants. This fellowship is a significant opportunity for young investigators to contribute to advancements in urological care.

The Portland Rotary Charitable Trust Community Grants support 501(c)(3) organizations in the Portland Metro area that empower underserved youth. Grants, ranging from $2,000 to $8,000, focus on capital expenditures, ensuring inclusivity without discrimination. Organizations must refrain from non-capital expenses, operational costs, and religious requirements. This initiative fosters equal opportunities, addressing disparities in access to resources and promoting community development.