Best Private Grants for Nonprofits

Office of Victim Services

Mission: OVS has a three-tiered mission to: provide compensation to victims of crime, their family members, and other eligible individuals in a timely, efficient and compassionate manner; fund direct services to victims of crime and their families through a network of programs across New York State; and advocate for the rights and benefits of all victims of crime.

Services

Compensation and Reimbursement

OVS provides substantial financial relief to victims of crime and their families by paying unreimbursed crime-related expenses, including but not limited to: medical and funeral expenses, loss of earnings or support, counseling costs, crime scene clean-up expenses, the cost to repair or replace items of essential personal property, reasonable and necessary court transportation expenses, assistance to crime victims acting as a good Samaritan, the cost of residing at or utilizing the services of a domestic violence shelter, and limited attorney fees.

Victim Compensation

Eligibility for Compensation

Victims of crimes that happen in New York State may be eligible to get reimbursed for certain crime-related, out-of-pocket expenses. New York State residents who are victims of terrorism in other countries may also be eligible.

Eligibility for compensation depends on the type of crime that occurred, and for certain types of crimes, there may be additional age or disability requirements.

Below is a list of the types of compensation OVS can provide:

• Crime-related, out-of-pocket medical and counseling expenses
• Repair or replacement of essential personal property lost, damaged, or destroyed as the direct result of a crime (up to $2,500 total per claim)
• Funeral and burial expenses (up to $12,000)
• Relocation, moving, and storage costs (up to $2,500)
• Lost earnings or loss of support (up to $30,000)
• Lost savings of vulnerable elderly or incompetent persons (up to $30,000)
• Transportation for crime-related medical appointments or necessary court appearances
• Employment-related transportation expenses due to a victim’s crime-related physical injury (up to $2,500)
• Crime scene cleanup expenses and/or cost of securing a crime scene (up to $2,500)
• The cost of residing at or utilizing the services of a domestic violence shelter
• Occupational rehabilitation expenses
• Home and vehicle modifications
• Attorney fees for representation before the agency and/or before an appellate court, upon judicial review of the victim’s OVS claim (up to $1,000)

The Governor's Highway Safety Program in North Carolina provides essential funding to law enforcement agencies, local governments, and nonprofits aimed at reducing traffic accidents. It supports initiatives such as combating drunken driving, promoting seat belt use, and enhancing police traffic services. Grants are awarded on a federal fiscal year basis to improve road safety for all users, including young drivers and pedestrians. For more information, visit the GHSP grants page.

Women Giving to Women Scholarship

Women Giving To Women (WGTW) provides intellectual and emotional support for women of diverse backgrounds. WGTW scholarship was established to empower women to complete a bachelor’s degree and become leaders in the community. WGTW also provides financial support for the following community endeavors: The Child Abuse and Neglect Council (CAN) Great Lakes Bay Region, The McNally House of Covenant Hospital, Underground Railroad of Saginaw and The Women’s Studies Section of the Frankenmuth Wickson District Library.

Evaluation Criteria

• Scholastic record (25)
• Community involvement (15)
• Leadership (10)
• Essay (25)
• References (15)
• Non-traditional field of study (10)

Brandon Walker “BW” Memorial Scholarships – Ferris State University Scholarship

Brandon Walker was a member of Swan Valley High School Class of 2011. After graduating from high school, Brandon planned to attend Ferris State University to study criminal justice. He had secured a part-time position with the Ferris State University Police and was one of two chosen from over 100 applicants. This was just one example of how Brandon was determined to pursue his passions in life. No matter what the level of competition was before him, Brandon gave his all.

Evaluation Criteria

• Career goals as demonstrated in general essay (20);
• Leadership (5)
• Community service (5)
• Overall involvement in community, school and work activities (5)
• Letters of recommendation (5)
• Special essays (two required) (30/each)
• Financial need will be considered only as a tie-breaker between two equally qualified applicants.

The Helen Wardman Naselli Memorial Fund Grant, established in 1990, supports organizations dedicated to aiding elderly individuals in need. The foundation prioritizes funding for charities in the Washington, DC area that provide care and relief for the aged. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt under the Internal Revenue Code. However, larger charitable organizations reliant on public appeals and grants for individuals or capital projects are ineligible for funding.

The Sharon Orloski Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports students at Central Connecticut State University pursuing degrees in life sciences. This scholarship particularly favors women demonstrating commitment and potential in scientific fields, aiming to enhance academic achievement and promote women's representation in the life sciences. With a focus on fostering future leaders, it reflects the Foundation's mission to inspire philanthropy and address community challenges through education.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

Warren J. & Shirley J. Eggers Scholarship Fund

Warren J. Eggers, an active civic leader in the Aurora area, passed away on February 15, 2010.

To honor his life, Mr. Egger’s family and friends created a scholarship fund to provide assistance to local students with great financial need who wish to further their education upon graduation from high school.

Warren Eggers (1935-2010) was born in Chicago, Illinois and grew up in River Forest, Illinois.

He was a graduate of Oak Park–River Forest High School and Elmhurst College.

Upon graduation from college, he was employed as a research chemist at the Sherwin-Williams Company.

In 1966, the family moved to the Aurora area where Mr. Eggers continued his work in the paint and adhesive industry.

He and a group of colleagues purchased the former River Valley Coatings. He retired from the company in 1996.

He served as a director of the Waubonsee Community College Foundation, chairman of the Valley Industrial Association, member of the Kane County Bar Foundation and member of the Community Foundation Scholarship Committee.

Shirley Eggers was born and raised in Freeport, Illinois.

She received her R.N. from Rush-Presbyterian-Saint Lukes Hospital in Chicago and her Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from Northern Illinois University.

Mrs. Eggers retired after fifteen years as a school nurse at East Aurora High School.

Mr. and Mrs. Eggers were active members of Bethany Lutheran Church in Batavia.

The Bowsher-Booher Foundation, established as a memorial by Eleanor Booher Warner, aims to support charitable, scientific, literary, and educational initiatives in St. Joseph County, Indiana, particularly focusing on early childhood education. The foundation emphasizes assisting 501(c)(3) organizations in South Bend and surrounding areas, ensuring that its contributions significantly benefit the local community. With a commitment to enhancing educational opportunities, the foundation plays a vital role in fostering development for young learners.

The OREF New Investigator Grant offers seed funding of up to $50,000 for promising research projects aimed at enhancing the scientific training of orthopaedic surgeons. This grant is specifically for new investigators who have not previously secured substantial research funding. Applicants must be orthopaedic surgeons meeting the NIH definition of a new investigator. The grant period lasts one year and requires periodic progress reports and an annual review.

The David Whitehouse Research Residency for Artists provides artists with the opportunity to engage with the Museum’s resources, including its extensive glass collections and the Rakow Research Library. Named after former executive director David Whitehouse, this residency supports the exploration of glass-related topics, offering transportation, room, and board. Residencies last from one to three weeks, and recipients are invited to present their research in a public lecture, fostering community engagement and artistic dialogue.

The Shepard Family Scholarship, administered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports students residing in NCCF's service area who are pursuing undergraduate or graduate education. With awards ranging from $300 to $1,500, this scholarship is also available for individuals in non-degree, adult education, or private primary and secondary programs. It reflects a commitment to fostering educational opportunities and community engagement.

The Transformational Partnerships Fund offers Seed Grants of up to $10,000 to colleges and universities exploring student-centered partnerships. These grants help defray costs associated with events that build consensus among leadership to pursue transformative collaborations. Prioritization is given to institutions serving diverse student populations and those that can demonstrate the potential for significant impact on student outcomes. This initiative focuses on fostering innovative partnerships that enhance institutional effectiveness and student success.

The SVNA Health Care Related Educational Scholarship, offered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports students pursuing careers in healthcare (excluding pre-med) from specific towns. This scholarship provides $10,000 annually, renewable for up to five years, making it a significant opportunity for local students committed to making a difference in the healthcare field. The foundation emphasizes community engagement and smart grant-making to address local issues.

21st Century California School Leadership Academy, Cohort 3

California Education Code Section 44690(c)(1) directs the California Department of Education (CDE), the State Board of Education (SBE) and the California Collaborative for Educational Excellence (CCEE) to select providers of professional learning for administrators and other school leaders. The professional learning through the 21CSLA will be free of charge to local educational agencies that receive federal Title II funds.

Description:

The CDE, SBE, and CCEE will select one awardee to serve as the 21CSLA Center and up to seven awardees to serve as 21CSLA Regional Academies. Please note that the Center application is a renewal. Only the current 21CSLA Center may apply. Awardees, supported by the CDE, CCEE, and SBE, will work collaboratively within the Statewide System of Support (SOS) to build the capacity of educational leaders statewide through professional learning aligned to the California Professional Standards for Education Leaders (CPSEL) and the Quality Professional Learning Standards (QPLS). A goal of this program is to have a Regional Academy located in each of the seven Geographic Lead Agency boundaries. 

The Tollar Family Scholarship, administered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports students from NCCF's 20-town service area pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies. Offering a $4,000 award, this scholarship encourages local talent and fosters educational growth. It is designed for those dedicated to their academic journey, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder potential. This initiative exemplifies community support and commitment to education, empowering students to achieve their goals.

The William and Sally Vaun Scholarship, offered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports local students pursuing degrees in medicine or environmental studies with an emphasis on ecology and conservation sciences. This scholarship provides an average award of $1,500 to eligible applicants from the NCCF's 20-town service area. The foundation is dedicated to championing community causes through thoughtful grant-making and scholarships, ensuring impactful support for future leaders.

The Watanabe "Go For It" Scholarship Fund, established by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, aims to support residents of Hawaii with financial need who have a GPA of at least 2.0 and attend a community college in the state. Scholarships range from $1,000 to several thousand dollars, with an average award of approximately $6,000. Priority is given to returning recipients, first-generation students, and those with a GPA of 2.5 or higher.

The University of Redlands Hawai'i Scholarship, established in 1997 by the University of Redlands and its Hawai'i Alumni Club, aims to support Hawai'i residents attending the university. This scholarship fosters connections between the islands and the institution, with awards varying from $1,000 to several thousand dollars, averaging around $6,000. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, promoting academic success and community engagement.

The Toraji & Toki Yoshinaga Scholarship Fund, established in 1996 by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, supports students attending BYU-Hawaii, Chaminade University, or Hawaii Pacific University. Award amounts vary, typically averaging around $6,000, based on financial need and academic standing. Applicants must be residents of Hawai‘i and maintain at least a 2.0 GPA. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility criteria.

Artist Catalyst Grants

Projects that support Virginia artists in advancing their creative practice.

Description

The Artist Catalyst Grant offers one-time support of up to $500 to help artists reach a new point in their development, either by enhancing their craft, accessing a unique opportunity, engaging with the public, or completing a significant project. As a guiding principle, the funded activity should serve as a catalyst, helping to enhance the artist’s practice or career trajectory. Requests most likely to be awarded will clearly articulate compelling before-and-after impact, demonstrating how this investment enables new skills, opportunities, visibility, or momentum that would not occur without the grant.

The Tongan Cultural Society Scholarship Fund, established by the Tongan Cultural Society in 2003, provides financial support to Hawaii residents of Tongan ancestry pursuing education in Hawaii. Scholarship amounts vary, typically averaging around $6,000, depending on fund size and applicant qualifications. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to previous recipients and those of Tongan descent.

The Apolonia Stanulis Scholarship, offered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports college students residing in NCCF's 20-town service area. With awards ranging from $300 to $1,500, this scholarship aims to empower students in their educational pursuits. NCCF is dedicated to fostering community development and connecting donors with local nonprofits, ensuring that the causes important to the community are championed effectively.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

Gary and Mary Hauge Scholarship Fund

Gary and Mary grew up in families of modest means, where value and affordability were important considerations. Their own educational paths began at Joliet Junior College before they went on to graduate from Northern Illinois University, and the strong foundation they received there played an important role in their careers.

To extend similar opportunities to others, Gary and Mary established this fund to support first-generation students in the area who are attending Waubonsee Community College.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

George & Elaine Hettrich Scholarship Endowment Fund

Scholarships from this fund are awarded to students graduating from high schools located in Oswego School District 308.

These scholarships support students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in nursing and also students studying in a field of their own choosing.

George Hettrich was a lifetime resident and farmer in Oswego Township. After graduating from Oswego High School, he attended Northwestern University and the Chicago Board of Trade Grain and Marketing Program. Mr. Hettrich was elected and served in several Oswego Township and Kendall County offices. He passed away on December 29, 2022.

Elaine Hettrich is a graduate of Oswego High School. She received her R.N. from Copley Hospital School of Nursing and a bachelor of arts degree from Aurora University. She was employed by Copley Hospital and later served twenty-five years as a nurse for the Oswego School District until her retirement in 1994. Mrs. Hettrich is a member of several professional organizations and P.E.O. Chapter BT in Aurora.

The Women's Giving Circle of Frederick County Fund offers grants aimed at empowering women aged 18 and older facing challenging situations. With funding from the Community Foundation of Frederick County, the program supports initiatives that promote self-sufficiency and improve quality of life. Grants range from $1,000 to $40,000, targeting organizations that enhance workforce development, financial literacy, and economic stability for women. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and government agencies focused on community causes.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

Goldsmith Family Endowment Fund

The Goldsmith Family Endowment Fund provides scholarships to students who are graduates of East Aurora High School or West Aurora High School.

This fund, which was created in 2001, became an endowment in 2012.

The Goldsmith family has lived in Aurora for more than 100 years.

Zalmon Goldsmith, a long-time Aurora attorney, and Anne Goldsmith, his wife, were involved in numerous community activities throughout their lives.

Mr. Goldsmith served as a member and chairman of the board of Mercy Hospital and of the Heartland Blood Centers. He was also on the board of Sunnymere.

Mrs. Goldsmith was one of the founders of the Paramount Arts Centre Endowment and also served on the boards of the United Way and the Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley, among others.

Mr. and Mrs. Goldsmith’s son Bruce has practiced law in Aurora for more than thirty years. Bruce’s wife Margot, a freelance editor, has served on the Aurora Public Library Board of Directors.

Kansas Touring Roster Visiting Artists Program

Bringing the arts to every corner of Kansas

Kansas Touring Roster Visiting Artists grants provide funding for eligible organizations to engage and deepen the impact of arts programming on local and underserved audiences through exposure to and interaction with professional visiting artists from the Kansas Touring Roster. Presenters may book artists in any discipline, not just in performing arts. Projects should strive to integrate an arts discipline into non-arts content areas, help interpret an exhibition, performance or presentation, and support community development goals and objectives.

Please visit the Kansas Touring Roster page for information about available artists.