Best Recreation Grants for Nonprofits

The Local Share Account (LSA) program in Fayette County, administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, aims to enhance community and economic well-being. Funded by local share assessments from licensed gaming facilities, LSA supports various projects focused on economic development and public interest. This initiative ensures that resources are allocated effectively to foster a resilient and thriving community, benefiting residents and local businesses alike.

The Access for All Abilities Mini Grants program, funded by the Paul V. Sherlock Center on Disabilities, supports local businesses and organizations in Rhode Island that enhance accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Grants are available for projects that promote social, recreational, and cultural engagement, such as installing accessible facilities or providing adaptive materials. Since 2009, over $180,000 has been awarded, fostering inclusive community participation and empowering diverse abilities.

The Daniel and Susan Pfau Foundation, established in 1994, focuses on enhancing education, health, cultural experiences, and social welfare for youth with disabilities and economic challenges in the Greater Cincinnati area. It supports arts organizations and recreation initiatives, prioritizing programs that help young individuals realize their potential. Eligible applicants must be recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofits and demonstrate benefits to specific counties in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. The Foundation encourages collaboration with other donors for project funding.

The Instant Impact Grant, offered by the Greater Poweshiek Community Foundation, provides up to $1,000 to nonprofit organizations and public entities serving Poweshiek County. This program prioritizes innovative and collaborative projects that enhance community wellbeing through cultural, educational, recreational, and health initiatives. Eligible applicants can apply at any time, fostering support for impactful local endeavors.

The Harnett County Community Foundation provides support to charitable organizations in North Carolina, particularly those addressing COVID-19 challenges. By forgoing the traditional grant cycle, the foundation aims to assist nonprofits in various sectors, including education, health, and the arts. This initiative aligns with its mission to enhance community welfare through philanthropy and direct action. Organizations eligible for funding must be tax-exempt public charities or local government units, ensuring broad support for local needs.

The Granville County Community Foundation (GCCF) offers grants to nonprofits to support community enhancement. Established in 1997, GCCF allocates funds from its endowments, including the Martha Frances Pruitt Endowment Fund, to organizations meeting eligibility criteria such as being tax-exempt public charities or local government units. The foundation encourages diverse community programs while excluding funding for political purposes, loans, or general operating support for religious entities. This initiative aims to foster inclusive community development.

The Lake Fork Community Foundation supports the citizens of Hinsdale County through grants focused on educational assistance, care for the needy, and community beautification. Established in 1994, this private foundation encourages collaboration among organizations and seeks to maximize community impact. Eligible applicants must be IRS-recognized tax-exempt entities, ensuring funds reach those who can best serve the community's needs. Grants prioritize innovative projects that leverage additional resources and promote local engagement.

Tolland Community Fund at Greater Hartford Gives

This grant opportunity supports projects that directly benefit town residents and reflect the priorities, aspirations, and lived experiences of the community.

Community Funds at the Greater Hartford Gives Foundation was created to empower residents with resources to identify needs and champion solutions in their own towns. Each fund is guided by a committee of volunteer residents who review applications, elevate local voices, and recommend grants that respond to emerging issues, longstanding disparities, or new opportunities for improvement. These committees bring deep local knowledge and a commitment to strengthening the places they call home. 

Through this RFP, the Tolland Community Fund seeks proposals that are responsive, communitycentered, and feasible within a one-year grant period. Applicants will be asked to articulate how their project addresses a clear local need, engages or benefits residents, and contributes to a stronger, healthier, or more connected community. 

About HCR

Mission Statement

New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) is the State’s affordable housing agency, with a mission to build, preserve, and protect affordable housing and increase homeownership throughout New York State.

New York State Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program

Funds Available

The NYS CDBG Program is administered by the Housing Trust Fund Corporation’s (HTFC) Office of Community Renewal (OCR) and funds a variety of activities across the State to develop viable communities. CDBG Program funds are allocated to New York State by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the NYS CDBG Program. HTFC will make available approximately $20 million in NYS Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program funds through this Request for Applications (RFA). This RFA is limited to the activities listed below. Applications will be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the year. Funding for CDBG public infrastructure and housing activities will be announced separately and subject to a future Request for Applications.

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 Adirondack Park Community Smart Growth Grant Program, managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, offers funding to enhance community livability and sustainable development in the Adirondack and Catskill Parks. With an anticipated budget of $1,050,000, the program supports projects that align with smart growth principles, fostering environmental protection, economic development, and community planning. Eligible initiatives include improving public spaces, enhancing transportation access, and promoting tourism while ensuring the preservation of natural resources.

The Stabile Family Foundation Grants support non-profit 501(c)(3) organizations and public agencies in New Hampshire, focusing on educational and recreational services. Minor requests up to $500 are reviewed periodically, while major requests over $500 are approved thrice a year. Priority is given to Nashua area organizations, and the foundation does not fund basic operating costs or individual scholarships. This commitment enhances community resources and fosters growth in local initiatives.

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.

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 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.

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 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.

Foundations of East Chicago offers General Operating Grants to support local nonprofits and agencies improving community quality of life. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)3 entities based in East Chicago, with funding for operational expenses from January 1 to August 31, 2026. The grant covers daily costs such as utilities, office supplies, and maintenance, ensuring community-focused initiatives are supported while adhering to strict eligibility criteria.

Stronger Together Fund Grant

The mission of the Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville is to support donors in mobilizing generosity to improve the quality of life in our community. We know our community is stronger when everyone is given the opportunity to succeed. The focus of the Stronger Together Fund is to support programs that are creating and delivering opportunities for success in our community. 

Focus Area:

The Stronger Together Fund will provide grant funding to address opportunity gaps in the following areas that affect quality of life:

• Art & culture
• Basic needs
• Economic opportunity 
• Education
• Environment
• Health & wellness
• Neighborhoods & communities
• Recreation

Grant Range:

• $5,000 - $15,000

Grantee Responsibilities:

• Successful grantees will be required to sign a Grant Agreement prior to receiving funding. The Grantee must also report back on the use of the grant funding and what measurable outcomes were achieved as a result of the funded project.

Freeman Community Foundation Grant

At the Freeman Community Foundation, we celebrate the spirit, generosity, and vision of our community. Here, you can learn who we are, what we do, and how your support can help shape Freeman’s future.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Freeman Community Foundation is to attract charitable donations and distribute grants for the purpose of benefiting the social and economic well-being of the community.

About Freeman Community Foundation

Freeman Community Foundation (FCF) is a charitable organization specifically designated for supporting non-profit entities within the Freeman community for recreation projects, cultural projects, youth projects, service projects, educational projects, etc. Five percent of the principal on the organization's endowment is available each year to be awarded as grants to these groups. As contributions to the fund continue and the principle on the endowment increases, the interest available to the community for granting continues to grow. This organization provides an opportunity for people to leave a lasting legacy to the community in their name or in the name of a loved one.

Freeman Community Foundation (FCF) will strive to support a broad spectrum of projects intended to improve and enhance the Freeman community. Determination of recommendation for approval will be based upon need, creativity in addressing community concerns, community volunteer support, and accountability. 

As a general guideline, no more than three years of sequential grant funding shall be awarded to any one grantee for the same purpose. If projects require substantial funding to accomplish objectives, applicants should indicate intent to request additional funding in subsequent grant cycles. No guarantee of continued funding will be committed until future grant applications are reviewed. Previously funded projects with good track records should be favorably considered in subsequent grant decisions. 

Target Range Grant Program

The Target Range Grant Program supports the development of safe, public, and accessible shooting facilities in Louisiana to provide and promote:

• Additional recreational shooting and archery opportunities to the citizens of Louisiana
• Safe and responsible firearms ownership and use
• Shooting sports participation
• Locations for recreational shooters, hunters, and archers to practice their skills within reasonable proximity to their homes.

This program is administered through the Wildlife Restoration Program Fund in Louisiana through the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act. This federal program receives funding from federal excise tax generated by sales of certain firearms and archery equipment.