Best Grants for Youth Programs in Pennsylvania

The Albert M. Greenfield Foundation Grant supports Philadelphia-area organizations working on innovative projects in arts, culture, education, and human services. The Foundation emphasizes collaboration with grantees to achieve measurable results and prefers funding discrete programs that address significant community challenges. Organizations eligible for funding must demonstrate strong leadership and a strategic plan, while the Foundation does not provide operating support or consider applications outside the Philadelphia region.

Our Mission

The Horner Foundation is a family-based charity dedicated to partnering with community-based organizations that provide youth, aged 10-19, hands-on experiential learning opportunities through Out of School Time (OST) to foster positive youth development.

We work in 4 geographic regions, determined by where family members live, their specific interests and needs identified by the community.

Our Vision

• All youth will be empowered to realize their full potential and become active participants in their communities.
• All youth will have ample opportunities both inside and outside the classroom to experience a diversity of quality learning styles and frameworks.
• All youth will be healthy, strong, and well-prepared for the 21st Century.

Organizational Funding Statement

The Horner Foundation strives to be responsive and meet organizations where they are. This means that we may provide multi-year funding and ongoing support to nonprofits who may be launching a pilot project or going through a transition. However, we also believe in the value of diverse funding sources. The Horner Foundation typically funds organizations for 1-2 funding cycles (2-4 years). In rare cases, we may fund an organizations for 3 funding cycles (6 years).

Grants

The Foundation awards two-year grants dedicated to project funding. We fund in four geographic regions, each with its own funding priorities.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Out of School Time (OST) Organizations - STEM Programs    

Strategy

Since 2013, The Horner Foundation has supported Out of School Time programs working directly with underserved youth aged 10-19 in the City of Philadelphia. For our 2024 funding cycle, we will focus on out-of-school time STEM programming. 

Funding Focus

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math): The intention of this funding focus is to inspire members of the next generation to pursue careers in the science, technology, engineering, and math sectors through programming delivered in an inclusive learning environment.

• The program may include coding, robotics, entrepreneurship, engineering, and other STEM-related OST programming aimed at equipping youth with the tools necessary to thrive in a tech driven society.
• This funding focus also includes programs that encourage leadership training and career preparation for young tech leaders in underserved communities.

The Manufacturing PA Training-to-Career Grant program, part of Governor Wolf’s Jobs that Pay Initiative, aims to bolster Pennsylvania's manufacturing sector by funding projects that enhance workforce readiness and entry-level job placements. This initiative focuses on engaging youths and individuals facing barriers, ensuring they are aware of career opportunities in manufacturing. Funds can be allocated for various purposes, including training services, equipment purchases, and program development, thereby supporting local manufacturers and fostering community growth.

The Mary Hillman Jennings Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations in southwestern Pennsylvania, focusing on community development, health, education, and the arts. Established in 1968, the Foundation aims to improve the quality of life for underserved populations, including at-risk youth and homeless individuals. It prioritizes direct services that promote economic and social welfare, while accepting applications from tax-exempt organizations. The grant cycle may take two to three months, reflecting the Foundation's commitment to thorough review.

The Richard King Mellon Foundation invites innovative proposals that align with their 2021-2030 Strategic Plan, aiming to invest over $1.2 billion to enhance opportunities in southwestern Pennsylvania. Their funding focuses on conservation, economic development, economic mobility, health and well-being, organizational effectiveness, and social-impact investments. The General Application offers flexibility without deadlines, allowing for a variety of support types, including project-specific and general operating funding, aimed at enriching community vitality and environmental stewardship.

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection offers Environmental Education Grants to enhance environmental literacy among youth and adults. Funding supports diverse projects, including hands-on programs for students and community workshops. Priorities focus on climate change, water quality, and environmental justice, with mini grants up to $5,000 and general grants ranging from $5,001 to $65,000. Projects must engage participants from multiple counties and include members from Environmental Justice communities, fostering sustainable resource management.

The Presser Foundation's Special Projects Grant supports innovative music organizations with funding ranging from $5,000 to $25,000. Established in 1939, the Foundation aims to promote music education and philanthropy. The grant focuses on newly formed organizations and those impacted by funding changes, encouraging applications for projects enhancing artistic development, financial stability, and collaboration. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits within a 75-mile radius of Philadelphia, ensuring a broad reach in supporting diverse musical initiatives.

The A.J. and Sigismunda Palumbo Charitable Trust supports organizations committed to enhancing the lives of children and young adults. They focus on educational institutions, health-related initiatives, and community services in the St. Marys, Pennsylvania area. Grants are awarded to 501(c)(3) organizations demonstrating accountability and measurable outcomes, with a preference for projects that benefit the community at large. The Trust encourages collaborative funding efforts and endeavors that inspire hope and vision.

The Building Opportunity through Out-of-School Time (BOOST) Grants, provided by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency, aim to enhance structured programming opportunities for at-risk school-age youth. These grants support local and statewide projects designed to expand out-of-school time (OST) initiatives, thereby fostering a more supportive environment for youth development and engagement. Through these efforts, the BOOST program seeks to address critical needs in communities and promote positive outcomes for participants.

The Social-Impact Investment Pitch Competition aims to enhance the vitality of Southwestern Pennsylvania, particularly in Pittsburgh, by fostering economic development, wildlife conservation, and community health. The Foundation invites nonprofits, public agencies, and socially-driven for-profit companies to apply for funding to implement innovative ideas that address societal challenges. Applications are open to U.S.-based organizations seeking capital and project support, with a focus on creating lasting positive change in the community.

The Just Born Corporate Giving Grant Program aims to enhance the well-being of children and families in need by supporting initiatives in arts, education, health, and community development. The program focuses on opportunities that benefit underserved populations, emphasizing diverse leadership and community engagement. Grants prioritize projects that promote cultural enrichment, educational access, and essential health services, ultimately fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment for all. Through strategic partnerships, Just Born Quality Confections is committed to making a meaningful impact in its local communities.

The Penn National Gaming Foundation Grants support various community initiatives across North America, emphasizing education, health services, and cultural affairs. Launched post-Hurricane Katrina, the foundation aids local nonprofits, enhancing community development, public safety, and veteran support. The grants cater to organizations that address the needs of children, senior citizens, and disadvantaged populations, ensuring a broad impact in areas where Penn National Gaming operates. This commitment reflects the foundation's dedication to uplifting communities and fostering resilience.

The Wawa Foundation offers financial grants exceeding $2,500 to 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations in its six-state market, focusing on health, hunger, and supporting everyday heroes. Applications are accepted in January, April, July, and October, with grant requests reviewed prior to the next submission window. Eligible organizations include those working to improve lives through health initiatives, hunger relief efforts, and support for community heroes. For more details, visit the Wawa Foundation's official site.

The EQT Foundation Grant Program supports nonprofits with a focus on community enrichment, education, and environmental preservation in areas aligned with EQT Corporation's business operations. Since 2003, it has awarded over $74 million, emphasizing impactful, evidence-based proposals that foster safe and sustainable communities. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and demonstrate effective resource management. The foundation prioritizes projects that promote STEM education, community engagement, and conservation efforts to enhance quality of life in the regions it serves.

The Walter J. Miller Trust Grant provides financial support to numerous charitable organizations in Pennsylvania. Established to honor the legacy of Mr. Miller and his sisters, the Trust emphasizes funding for education, health services, arts, and social welfare. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) compliant, with a focus on projects that address community needs not met by others. The Trust aims to ensure lasting impact through its generous contributions, fostering community development and support.

The Pittsburgh Foundation aims to foster a vibrant, equitable, and just community in the Pittsburgh region through its Foundation-Directed Grantmaking. Focus areas include Basic Needs, Equity and Social Justice, Arts and Culture, Economic Mobility, and Environmental Action. The Foundation prioritizes support for organizations serving low-income communities and those impacted by social injustices. By aligning grantmaking with community aspirations, they strive to ensure everyone can thrive and access essential resources and opportunities.

The Caroline J. S. Sanders Trust 1 Grant, established in 1968, aims to support charitable causes with a focus on education, social welfare, and training for the handicapped. Grants typically range from $2,000 to $15,000, with a preference for organizations based in Pennsylvania. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations. The trust does not fund endowments, general operating expenses, or political support, making it a valuable resource for community-focused initiatives.

The Caroline J. S. Sanders Trust 2 Grant provides funding primarily to 501(c)(3) organizations in Pennsylvania, focusing on education, health services, and social welfare programs. Grants typically range from $3,000 to $7,000, with around 30 awards given annually. The trust prioritizes requests from educational institutions and agencies assisting vulnerable populations, including the elderly and homeless. While there are no strict geographic limitations, support is mainly directed towards organizations based in Pennsylvania.

The Cigna Group Foundation is launching the Improving Youth Mental Health Grant, committing $9 million over three years to enhance mental health support for youth aged five to 18. This initiative targets post-pandemic challenges, offering resources to parents, caregivers, and youth service professionals. Nonprofits are encouraged to apply for funding between $100,000 and $150,000 to develop programs that promote social-emotional skills, enhance caregiver support, and improve access to mental health interventions in underserved communities.

The Snee-Reinhardt Charitable Foundation Grant supports transformative programs in Pittsburgh and surrounding areas, focusing on arts, education, environmental health, and human services. With an emphasis on tangible outcomes, the foundation values projects that serve large community segments. Eligibility requires organizations to have 501(c)(3) status for three years, while ineligible requests include fiscal sponsorships and general operating expenses. The foundation prioritizes local initiatives, particularly from Southwestern Pennsylvania and Northern West Virginia.

The Joseph Kennard Skilling Trust Grant supports social welfare agencies in Philadelphia, enhancing community welfare through targeted programs. Established in 1963 by Joseph Kennard Skilling, the trust embodies his lifelong commitment to philanthropy. The foundation prioritizes effective programs, professional management, and community needs, while favoring organizations that assist vulnerable populations. Eligible nonprofit organizations under Section 501(c)(3) are encouraged to apply, particularly those addressing issues like elder care, youth at risk, and rehabilitation of the homeless.

The Secular Distribution Grant supports charitable activities aimed at enhancing community well-being, particularly within 100 miles of Coatesville, PA. Focused on health and human services, the grant encourages projects that address community needs, foster self-reliance, and promote civic engagement. With a commitment to philanthropic impact, funding is reserved for organizations demonstrating 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status and a proven need, while maintaining strict eligibility criteria to ensure effective resource allocation.

2025-27 Violence & Delinquency Prevention Programs

Overview

The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) is now accepting applications under the 2025-27 Violence and Delinquency Prevention Programs (VDPP) solicitation. The primary purpose of this competitive solicitation is to advance state and local projects that align with priorities and needs articulated in Pennsylvania’s 2025 Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Plan (“2025 Plan”) and PCCD’s 2026-2030 Strategic Framework. The 2025 Plan includes recommendations and strategies identified by PCCD’s Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Committee (JJDPC) as essential for improving the Commonwealth’s prevention, diversion, intervention, and juvenile justice system infrastructure.

The goal of this initiative is to strengthen community-based strategies that prevent youth violence, delinquency, and other problem behaviors, expand diversion and deflection opportunities, and support successful reentry in accordance with Balanced and Restorative Justice guiding principles.

VDPP funds will focus on priorities identified within the 2025 Plan, especially activities/needs that cannot be addressed meaningfully using other available PCCD funding streams.

The anticipated impacts resulting from this solicitation may include: 

• Improved effectiveness of local early prevention programs and practices;
• Increased use of diversion and deflection practices to reduce unnecessary or deepened juvenile justice system involvement;
• Reduced recidivism by youth coming out of the juvenile justice system through the development of improved competency and life skills;
• Increased youth engagement and direct involvement in improving policies, practices, and the programming provided across the entire continuum of care from early prevention through reentry/aftercare; and
• Improved cross-system collaboration and innovation to increase coordination of services and programming available to youth and families in all communities of the Commonwealth.

The Provident Bank Foundation's Empowerment Grant focuses on uplifting marginalized communities by providing flexible funding for initiatives that promote economic self-sufficiency. With grants ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 over two years, the program supports organizations in education, human services, and workforce development. Eligible applicants must demonstrate meaningful community impact and align with the Foundation's funding priorities, which include promoting quality education, social safety nets, and career development opportunities.

The Greenspring Grant Program, established in 2012, focuses on supporting local non-profits dedicated to economic and workforce development. With $100,000 in grants ranging from $10,000 to $15,000, the program is entirely employee-run, allowing teams to select deserving organizations. Eligible entities include 501(c)(3) non-profits in Maryland, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, while special consideration is given to local initiatives aimed at recovery, youth, and underserved populations.

The Greater Harrisburg Foundation Upstream Grant aims to foster community improvement by funding innovative projects that address systemic issues at their source. This grant supports nonprofit organizations in Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Lebanon, and Perry Counties, allowing them to implement creative solutions in areas such as education, health, and environmental stewardship. By focusing on upstream interventions, the foundation encourages a proactive approach to social change, ultimately enhancing community resilience and well-being.

The Ruth Danley and William Enoch Moore Charitable Fund Grant is a private foundation based in Pittsburgh, established in 1992. It focuses on philanthropy, specifically supporting K-12 education for Native American children living on reservations. The foundation directs its grants primarily to regions preferred by donors, including several states in the Northeast and Midwest, aiming to improve educational opportunities and foster community development in underserved populations.