Best Recreation Grants for Nonprofits

About Us

Bay Area Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization created by and for the people of the Bay Area. We offer a range of flexible giving tools to help our donors make a positive impact on the community and causes that align with their interests and passions. In addition to first-rate donor service, we manage our community’s permanent endowment and award grants to address the community’s most pressing needs and promising opportunities.

Since 1982, our community has used our resources to make charitable gifts more effective. We provide maximum flexibility in establishing, managing, and distributing your gifts. Through our donors’ generosity, we can help support arts and culture, community initiatives, education and youth, environment, health and wellness, human services, and recreation in our area.

Bay County Community Partnership Grants

Twice a year, our Community Partnership Grants present an opportunity for registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits to apply for funding for their projects and programs. Whether the project is centered around the arts, education, environment, health, human services, recreation, or community initiatives, our grants are here to fuel passion and bring ideas to life.

Together, we can empower our community with transformative ideas and create a lasting legacy of progress. Grant applications are accepted from January to March and July to September, with awards granted in May and December. Together, let’s shape a brighter future for Bay County.

The Hillsdale County Community Foundation offers General Foundation Grants aimed at enhancing the quality of life for residents. These grants support projects in education, fine arts, social services, and more. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt organizations and educational institutions. Priority is given to initiatives that benefit a broad audience and address local issues. The Foundation does not fund religious activities, individuals, or administrative costs. Overall, it seeks creative solutions to community needs.

The Central Pennsylvania Community Foundation offers unrestricted funds to support various projects aimed at enhancing the community's welfare. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) charities that serve Blair County and meet specific criteria, such as promoting education, arts, or health services. This grant process encourages impactful proposals, ensuring that resources are allocated to initiatives that genuinely benefit the region. Applications are accepted annually, with a focus on sustainable community development.

The Bainbridge Community Foundation's Community Grants Cycle annually supports local nonprofits through grants ranging from $1,000 to $11,000. Established in 2005, this initiative emphasizes community-driven grant-making, ensuring funds are allocated to projects that directly benefit Bainbridge Island residents. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) status and demonstrate a measurable impact on underserved populations. Areas of focus include arts, education, health, and environmental initiatives, fostering community engagement and collaboration.

Age Strong Commission

For us, strength comes in many forms. Strength of community. Of cultures. Of experiences. Strength to embrace new chapters and opportunities. We believe that Bostonians who are 55+ make our City strong and vibrant. Our mission is to enhance your life with meaningful programs, resources, and connections so we can live and age strong in Boston together.

Older Americans Act Support and Health Services Grant

Through the Older Americans Act Support and Health Services Grant, the City of Boston’s Age Strong Commission seeks to fund programs that are providing a comprehensive and supportive social service system while promoting longevity and an optimal quality of life for older adults. The goal of this grant program is to leverage existing community trust and foster a sense of community within each neighborhood. Grants will be made to ensure high-quality social programs are accessible to older adults.

Grant Priorities

• Support older adult programming in the community at non-profits through cost reimbursement funding
• Help older adults maintain independent living in their communities as long as desired through supportive and/or evidence-based programming

The Older Americans Act Support and Health Services Grant is based on Title III-B and Title III-D funding.

Title III-B

With Title III-B grants, we aim to fund multiple agencies throughout Boston to provide supportive services to older adults. The programming may include services, such as: legal assistance, friendly visit, home repair, recreation, computer training, and translation/interpretation services. For a complete listing of allowable services, please visit OAAPS Service Categories. Title III-B allowable services will have a corresponding “B” in column F.

• As mandated by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs (EOEA), twenty-two percent (22%) of the total Title III-B Support Services must be allocated to legal services programming in the City of Boston.

The Grand Haven Area Community Foundation's grants enhance the quality of life in Northwest Ottawa County by supporting projects in arts, diversity, economic development, education, environment, and health. They prioritize initiatives that foster inclusion, cultural experiences, community betterment, and sustainability. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) entities, government units, and educational institutions that demonstrate alignment with these goals. The foundation aims to empower local communities and ensure equitable access to resources for all residents.

The Roy J. Carver Charitable Trust provides grants primarily to 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations in Iowa and parts of Illinois. Focused on enhancing educational opportunities, the Trust supports projects in elementary and secondary education, higher education, medical research, youth services, and recreation. By funding innovative initiatives, it aims to improve access to educational resources and foster scientific advancement, while also addressing the recreational needs of youth and supporting community development.

The Black Belt Community Foundation is launching its 2025 Arts and Community Grants Cycle on January 7, 2025, offering grants to support arts organizations and community-based nonprofits in Alabama’s Black Belt region. Grants range from $500 to $3,500 for arts initiatives and $500 to $5,000 for community projects. Organizations from 12 counties are encouraged to apply, and attendance at virtual workshops is recommended for first-time applicants.

The RHI Legacy Foundation Grant aims to enhance health and wellness in Rutherford County, NC, through funding community-focused programs. It prioritizes initiatives addressing chronic diseases, healthy eating, and active living, ensuring measurable impacts on the local population. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) non-profits and demonstrate alignment with the Foundation's mission. The grant supports sustainable projects that improve overall community health and quality of life.

The Atlanta Foundation Grant aims to enhance the welfare of communities in Fulton and DeKalb counties, Georgia. Established in 1921, the foundation focuses on supporting charitable and educational institutions that foster education, scientific research, and community well-being. Grants are available for qualified 501(c)(3) organizations within these counties, emphasizing program grants and operating projects. The foundation is committed to improving the lives of residents, irrespective of their race or creed, ensuring a positive impact on the community.

About Us

The mission of the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council (Ohio DD Council) is to create change that improves independence, productivity and inclusion for people with developmental disabilities and their families in community life. The Ohio DD Council operates under the authority of the federal Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 (DD Act) and is a part of the Ohio DD Network. The Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities assists and supports the Ohio DD Council as the federally mandated designated state agency.

All In Play: Empowering Inclusive Sports in K-12 Schools

This grant will support the development and expansion of inclusive K–12 athletic programs that increase access to meaningful participation for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), including those with significant support needs. The goal is to build school and community capacity, not to deliver direct services.

Grantees will implement a train‑the‑trainer model that equips school staff, coaches, and university partners with practical strategies for inclusive sports program design, adaptive coaching, and peer‑to‑peer engagement. Projects must include approaches that prepare trainers to support students across the full spectrum of abilities and to train student peers in disability awareness, communication, and inclusive teamwork.

Funded activities may include developing training materials, delivering trainer sessions, providing technical assistance to schools, building partnerships with university PT/OT programs, and collecting best practices. Projects should emphasize sustainability, replication, and long‑term systems change.

Applicants should demonstrate the ability to:

• Build capacity within schools to design and sustain inclusive athletic programs.
• Train educators, coaches, and university partners to support students with all levels of disability.
• Incorporate structured peer‑engagement models (e.g., buddy systems, mentorship).
• Provide technical assistance that helps schools implement inclusive practices effectively.
• Evaluate training effectiveness and share outcomes.

This grant aligns with ODDC priorities by promoting community inclusion, strengthening local capacity, supporting cross‑disability participation, and fostering collaborative partnerships that lead to lasting systemic change.

The Beveridge Family Foundation Grant supports initiatives in youth development, health, education, religion, art, and the environment, primarily in Hampden and Hampshire counties, Massachusetts. With two funding cycles each year, applications are due by February 1 and August 1. The Foundation prioritizes organizations that enhance the quality of life and promote self-sufficiency among underserved populations, although it avoids supporting certain areas such as international affairs and awards.

The Marcia and Otto Koehler Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) public charities focused on medical research, arts promotion, and youth development in San Antonio. Eligible organizations must skip one grant cycle before reapplying. The foundation prioritizes projects that enhance the physical, mental, and moral well-being of local youth. Notably, it does not fund individuals or organizations involved in political lobbying. This grant offers a vital opportunity for community support in various essential sectors.

The Helen Irwin Littauer Educational Trust Grant supports charitable organizations in Tarrant County, focusing on education, arts, and human services. Established in 1969 by Mrs. Littauer, who was dedicated to community service and youth education, the Trust prioritizes scholarships for deserving students, especially in journalism, and alleviating human suffering. Organizations must skip one grant cycle before reapplying, ensuring fair access to funding for all eligible charities.

New Mexico Youth Conservation Corps Grant

The New Mexico Youth Conservation Corps Commission invites tribes, local units of government, non-profits and units of state and federal agencies operating within New Mexico to submit proposals for YCC projects.

The WDNR Shooting Range Grants support counties, cities, and organizations in constructing outdoor shooting ranges, including essential facilities like backstops, benches, and protective fencing. Grants are reimbursement-based, requiring applicants to cover costs upfront. Eligible entities include governmental agencies and educational institutions. The program prioritizes sustainable practices in managing Wisconsin's natural resources while providing safe outdoor recreational opportunities. Interested applicants should refer to the program guidance for detailed instructions on eligibility and application processes.

About

The Advancing Communities grant program helps communities across Nebraska and southwest Iowa develop or enhance spaces that are inviting to all citizens, enabling connection through social, recreational, historical and civic engagement. By supporting capital projects that make great community assets — from libraries and youth rec centers to parks, trails, museums and more — we encourage our neighbors to get out and explore.

Advancing Communities Grant

Projects for consideration should align with the following themes:

• Shared spaces such as libraries, parks, trails and community centers — that encourage engagement and make towns more vibrant places to live, work and gather.
• Innovative ideas and forward-thinking approaches that engage multiple generations, introduce new ideas or bring fresh energy into existing community spaces.
• Community-led efforts, including partnerships among public, private and nonprofit sectors, with priority given to initiatives that demonstrate collaboration, local investment and community-driven vision.
• Sustainable, ready-to-launch projects that have secured at least 60% of their total funding and show clear plans for long-term maintenance, sustainability and measurable community benefit.

Grant amounts:

Applicants may request up to $250,000 for one time capital support.

Deadlines:

Applications for this program can be submitted at any time.

The Hardin County Community Foundation offers grants to 501(c)(3) organizations that benefit Hardin County residents. The foundation prioritizes innovative projects that address community needs in areas like education, health, and arts. It seeks to enhance the quality of life, encourage volunteerism, and ensure efficient distribution of social services. However, it does not fund operating expenses, political activities, or projects already in progress. The foundation aims to create long-term community resources and support self-sustaining initiatives.

The Laura Turner Dugas Fund for Allen County aims to enhance the community's quality of life by funding programs that address crucial needs such as education, health services, the arts, public recreation, and beautification. This private fund supports 501(c)(3) organizations based in Allen County, prioritizing projects that demonstrate sustainability and measurable outcomes. The fund seeks to build a legacy for future generations, promoting philanthropic giving and community engagement.

The Community Foundation of South Central Kentucky supports philanthropic initiatives aiming to enhance community welfare through grants. Focused on lasting impact, the foundation funds projects in five key areas: education, health and human services, the arts, public recreation, and beautification. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations within the BRADD area of Kentucky. The foundation prioritizes projects that address community needs while excluding funding for individuals, capital campaigns, endowments, and general operating expenses.

The McConnell Fund, established in 2001 by the Community Foundation of the North State, aims to enhance communities in Shasta, Siskiyou, Tehama, Trinity, and Modoc counties through grants up to $50,000. It focuses on funding projects in areas such as arts, recreation, and social services, while prioritizing nonprofits and public entities. Eligible applicants can seek financial support for equipment and building-related initiatives, reinforcing the foundation's commitment to community development and philanthropy.

The Bryan Area Foundation Grant Program supports tax-exempt organizations that enhance life in Williams County. Established in 1969, the Foundation has invested over $13.4 million in community projects and scholarships. Applicants must schedule a meeting with the Foundation's President/CEO 30 days prior to the grant deadline. The Foundation favors innovative proposals that address emerging needs and promote community involvement while avoiding funding for operating expenses and projects already in progress.

The Beckley Area Foundation Community Grant Program supports charitable organizations in Raleigh County by providing discretionary grants focused on pressing community needs. Priorities include innovative projects, seed funding for new initiatives, and efforts that address underserved populations. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit entities or public institutions, with projects benefiting Raleigh County within a defined grant period. The foundation emphasizes projects that ensure sustainable support and address urgent needs.

The Community Foundation of Fort Dodge and United Way offer Special Project Grants aimed at enhancing community life through charitable projects. Focused on economic growth, education, and well-being, these grants support 501(c)(3) organizations dedicated to public service. Priority areas include youth development, health, and community betterment. By investing in local nonprofits, the foundation aims to uplift the Fort Dodge area, ensuring a vibrant and sustainable community for all residents.

The BRCFSC Community Grants, offered by the Blue River Community Foundation, support projects in Art & Culture, Health, Education, and Social Services for Shelby County residents. These grants are funded through various unrestricted family and interest funds, promoting initiatives that address beautification, youth support, and disability services. Eligible organizations must demonstrate sound accounting practices, while projects already in progress or focused on travel or political campaigns are ineligible. This competitive grant cycle encourages community-driven development.

The Warrick Community Good Grants Program, managed by the Community Foundation Alliance, Inc., supports local charitable organizations by funding new or ongoing projects that address various community needs. Grants are provided annually through unrestricted funds and aim to enhance the quality of life in Warrick County. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt nonprofits and government agencies, while specific funding criteria may vary each year. Organizations must review requirements before applying.

The Women’s Fund Grants Program, conducted by the Community Foundation Alliance, Inc., supports nonprofit organizations serving Vanderburgh County. This year's cycle includes two Impact Grants of $50,000 each for programs and projects, alongside four additional grants of $20,000 for finalists. Eligible organizations must demonstrate long-term planning, financial sustainability, and a commitment to gender equity. Applications will be accepted from 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities and governmental agencies.