Best Santa Cruz County Grants for Nonprofits in California

The ASPCA Research Grants for Shelter Research invite proposals in six key areas including Access to Veterinary Care, Applied Behavior Research, and Shelter Research. These grants aim to fund high-quality research that can significantly benefit animal welfare. Eligible investigators from U.S. entities and certain Canadian organizations are encouraged to apply. The program emphasizes collaboration between shelters and researchers, fostering innovative solutions to improve the well-being of animals in shelter settings.

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Margaret and Dr. Paul Borton Music Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Dr. Paul Borton, who established the Margaret and Dr. Paul Borton Music Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County in memory of his wife, Margaret Borton. Margaret "Maggie" Borton arrived in Muskegon in the late 40s, bringing with her the rich heritage and culture of South Carolina. Not having had the opportunity in her youth to pursue music, she sought ways to include it in her daily life, enjoying the many concerts and festivals available in our area. Maggie always admired the talented youth she met in Muskegon's musical community. Knowing of her dream, her love for people and her passion for music, Maggie's husband, Paul established the Margaret Borton Music Scholarship Fund in her memory to provide scholarship assistance to Muskegon County students who will major in music in college.

The Steven Scott Quinn Scholarship Fund, established by the Stark Community Foundation, aims to support Stark County, Ohio residents pursuing higher education in fields such as culinary arts, hospitality, nursing, nutrition, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. This initiative reflects the Foundation's long-standing commitment to enhancing the community through philanthropy and addressing diverse educational needs since its inception in 1963.

Community Foundation for Muskegon County

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Scholarships

Our scholarship funds seek to empower and encourage Muskegon County residents to pursue their dreams, hone in their gifts, and give back to our community.

If you’re a high school or homeschooled senior, current college student, early college senior, or adult learner, the Community Foundation for Muskegon County may have a scholarship for you. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with over $1 million committed to students in over 500 new and renewed scholarships awarded each year.

Darrell H. and Rosaline M. Smith Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Rosaline M. Smith, who established the Darrell H. and Rosaline M. Smith Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Rosaline a former Treasurer for the City of Muskegon, and Darrell Smith, a longtime employee of the Muskegon Post Office, who cared deeply for each other and shared more than 50 years of marriage. Music was something they loved and had very much in common. The Darrell H. and Rosaline M. Smith scholarship was created to honor Darrell, who is no longer with us, and to provide a helping hand to graduating seniors of any Muskegon County high school who have demonstrated academic achievement and will pursue a music degree.

Community Foundation for Muskegon County

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Scholarships

Our scholarship funds seek to empower and encourage Muskegon County residents to pursue their dreams, hone in their gifts, and give back to our community.

If you’re a high school or homeschooled senior, current college student, early college senior, or adult learner, the Community Foundation for Muskegon County may have a scholarship for you. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with over $1 million committed to students in over 500 new and renewed scholarships awarded each year.

Dorothy Creason Tyler English Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the Tyler Family, who established the Dorothy Creason-Tyler English Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. This scholarship is intended for graduating seniors from North Muskegon High School, who have an aptitude and passion for English. The scholarship will be awarded to a student who has demonstrated overall academic achievement with a special interest in and passion for reading, writing and discussing the ideas generated from great literature.

Community Foundation for Muskegon County

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Scholarships

Our scholarship funds seek to empower and encourage Muskegon County residents to pursue their dreams, hone in their gifts, and give back to our community.

If you’re a high school or homeschooled senior, current college student, early college senior, or adult learner, the Community Foundation for Muskegon County may have a scholarship for you. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with over $1 million committed to students in over 500 new and renewed scholarships awarded each year.

Dr. Philip H. and Esther J. Frandsen Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Esther Frandsen, who established the Dr. Philip H. and Esther J. Frandsen Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Esther Frandsen created the Dr. Philip H. and Esther J. Frandsen Scholarship Fund to provide scholarships for students from the Muskegon area who wish to train for careers in medicine or a medical related field. Mrs. Frandsen established the fund to honor the memory of her husband, Philip, who contributed so much to this community as a surgeon, and who worked tirelessly to improve the health of his patients through his surgical skills.

Community Foundation for Muskegon County

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Scholarships

Our scholarship funds seek to empower and encourage Muskegon County residents to pursue their dreams, hone in their gifts, and give back to our community.

If you’re a high school or homeschooled senior, current college student, early college senior, or adult learner, the Community Foundation for Muskegon County may have a scholarship for you. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with over $1 million committed to students in over 500 new and renewed scholarships awarded each year.

Eleanor Polley Women's Golf Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Dennis Sruba and Joanne Polley, who established the Eleanor Polley Women's Golf Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County in memory of Eleanor Polley. Eleanor Polley was Executive Director of the White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce when she died suddenly in 1995 at the age of 49. She was an untiring booster of the White Lake area and Muskegon County as a whole. She was also an avid promoter of women's golf. The Eleanor Polley Women's Golf Scholarship Fund was established in Eleanor's memory as part of the White Lake Community Fund by her family, her many friends, and the White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. It will provide scholarships to women college students who are also avid golfers.

Community Foundation for Muskegon County

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Scholarships

Our scholarship funds seek to empower and encourage Muskegon County residents to pursue their dreams, hone in their gifts, and give back to our community.

If you’re a high school or homeschooled senior, current college student, early college senior, or adult learner, the Community Foundation for Muskegon County may have a scholarship for you. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with over $1 million committed to students in over 500 new and renewed scholarships awarded each year.

Foundation for MCC - Edward H. & Wilma Kyvig Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the Kyvig family, who established the Edward H. & Wilma Kyvig Scholarship of the Foundation for Muskegon Community College. The Kyvig family established this scholarship to honor their parents, Edward and Wilma who both were instructors at Muskegon Community College. Edward and Wilma were very passionate about education and the importance of students obtaining a college degree. This scholarship was established to assist a student of good academic standing who shows potential and who is deserving of financial assistance.

Community Foundation for Muskegon County

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Scholarships

Our scholarship funds seek to empower and encourage Muskegon County residents to pursue their dreams, hone in their gifts, and give back to our community.

If you’re a high school or homeschooled senior, current college student, early college senior, or adult learner, the Community Foundation for Muskegon County may have a scholarship for you. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with over $1 million committed to students in over 500 new and renewed scholarships awarded each year.

Foundation for MCC - Richard Kraft/Suzanne Kraft Mateer Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Richard H. Kraft, who established the Richard Kraft/Suzanne Kraft Mateer Scholarship of the Foundation for Muskegon Community College. Richard graduated from Muskegon Community College in 1949 and then continued his education at Michigan State University obtaining an engineering degree. He started and operated a successful consulting and engineering firm in Flint. He believes that starting at Muskegon Community College was the best thing he ever did before continuing his education. This scholarship is presented to graduating seniors of Muskegon, Ottawa, Oceana and Newaygo County high schools who will be attending Muskegon Community College, then pursuing a degree at any accredited college or university.

The Home Study and Post-Release Services program, led by the Office of Refugee Resettlement, provides critical support for unaccompanied alien children in the U.S. It ensures safe placements with sponsors by conducting thorough home checks and offers ongoing assistance to help children adjust and thrive. This program is vital for the well-being of vulnerable youth navigating complex immigration processes, fostering healthy connections within the community and ensuring their safety during this transitional period.

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) is launching a funding opportunity for Clinical Trials Units (CTUs) as part of its effort to combat HIV/AIDS. This initiative aims to support innovative clinical trials and implementation research to improve prevention and treatment strategies. With a focus on both domestic and international research sites, CTUs will play a crucial role in addressing the HIV epidemic and enhancing participant recruitment and retention. This funding opportunity is authorized under the Public Health Service Act.

The NIAID aims to support four Clinical Trials Networks (CTNs) by funding Statistical and Data Management Centers (SDMCs) to enhance HIV research. These SDMCs will oversee study designs, data collection, and compliance with regulatory standards while ensuring data quality and integration. This initiative is a crucial step toward ending the HIV epidemic, fostering innovative methods, and adhering to NIH data sharing policies. Applications for the SDMCs are now being solicited.

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) is launching a funding opportunity for up to four Clinical Trials Network Laboratory Centers (LCs). These LCs will support HIV prevention and treatment strategies by providing necessary laboratory infrastructure and technologies for clinical trials. They will ensure rigorous laboratory testing and oversight, enhance sample integrity, and utilize advanced data management systems to meet evolving demands in HIV research and testing.

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) is calling for applications for four Leadership and Operations Centers (LOCs) as part of its HIV/AIDS Clinical Trials Network initiative. These LOCs will guide research on HIV therapeutics, prevention, and treatment strategies across diverse populations. The initiative aims to enhance evidence-based practices and improve health outcomes for individuals affected by HIV, ultimately contributing to the goal of ending the HIV epidemic.

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Kenneth Erickson Auto Mechanic Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Marguerite Winter and Marilyn Lynn, who established the Kenneth Erickson Auto Mechanic Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Kenneth Erickson was born at the end of the pre-car era. His father, a rural mail carrier, delivered mail by horse and buggy. When cars came along young Kenneth was fascinated by them and scavenged parts to build a yellow roadster, which he drove for several years. After a short stint at Continental Motors he decided to follow his passion and got a job as an auto mechanic. Eventually he opened his own business, Erickson's Garage, on Center Street in North Muskegon where he sold gas and repaired cars and trucks for over 40 years. In establishing the Kenneth I. Erickson Automobile Mechanic Scholarship, Ken's daughters, Marilyn Lynn and Marguerite Winter hope to support young people who would like to turn their passion for cars and motors into a life's work.

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Ken and Clara Kolberg Family Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Ken Kolberg and family, who established the Ken and Clara Kolberg Family Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Teaching is the family business of the Kolberg Family. Ken started teaching in Muskegon Public Schools after WWII and did so for thirty-seven years. Ken and Clara raised five children, of whom four became teachers - two working in Muskegon. Through the establishment of this Fund, the family is assured of having an impact on students far into the future. This Fund will support Muskegon students pursuing careers in education, especially minority students so greatly needed as teachers in our school systems.

Community Foundation for Muskegon County

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Scholarships

Our scholarship funds seek to empower and encourage Muskegon County residents to pursue their dreams, hone in their gifts, and give back to our community.

If you’re a high school or homeschooled senior, current college student, early college senior, or adult learner, the Community Foundation for Muskegon County may have a scholarship for you. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with over $1 million committed to students in over 500 new and renewed scholarships awarded each year.

Foundation for MCC - Student Emergency Needs Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the Foundation for Muskegon Community College, who established the Muskegon Community College Student Emergency Needs Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. This scholarship was established to provide scholarships to Muskegon, Ottawa or Newaygo County students.

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

June M. and John C. Vandervelde Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of June M. and John C. Vandervelde, who established the June M. and John C. Vandervelde Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. The Vandervelde's are both long-time Muskegon residents. Many Muskegonites will recognize the name "Vandervelde Furniture" which was located on Broadway in Muskegon Heights for many years. Generations of people bought their furniture from Vandervelde's. June is a long active volunteer for many community organizations, and both have a strong belief in and recognize the importance of a college education. This scholarship fund will assist Muskegon County students as they pursue that education.

Community Foundation for Muskegon County

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Scholarships

Our scholarship funds seek to empower and encourage Muskegon County residents to pursue their dreams, hone in their gifts, and give back to our community.

If you’re a high school or homeschooled senior, current college student, early college senior, or adult learner, the Community Foundation for Muskegon County may have a scholarship for you. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with over $1 million committed to students in over 500 new and renewed scholarships awarded each year.

Foundation for MCC - William H. Young Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by an anonymous donor, who established the William H. Young Memorial Scholarship of the Foundation for Muskegon Community College of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. This scholarship provides assistance to an associate degree-seeking student who demonstrates academic excellence based on either a high school or college academic record, with preference to students interested in the Social Service discipline.

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Julie Herrick Easterly Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the family and friends of Julie Herrick-Easterly, who established the Julie HerrickEasterly Memorial Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Julie Herrick-Easterly, an only child and part of an established family tradition of journalism, worked as a copy editor for various newspapers across the country. Her father, Robert Herrick, was editor of the Muskegon Chronicle for 17 years. At age 34, Julie died from a terminal illness. Following Julie's death, her parents established this scholarship in her memory. Awards from the scholarship are given to a Muskegon area graduating senior who plans to pursue a career in journalism. The award represents an acknowledgment of the student's past achievements in this area of study. To the credit of the Herricks, Julie's love for journalism will always be remembered, and the family tradition will be perpetuated through the lasting gift of education.

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

John Jurkas Law Enforcement Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the family and friends of John Jurkas, who established the John Jurkas Law Enforcement Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. John Jurkas served the City of Muskegon Police Department for 34 years, during which he established the reputation as a detective with the shrewd ability to solve crime. Mr. Jurkas completed his distinguished career as investigator for the Muskegon County Prosecutor. Following his death in 1991, family and friends established this to assist young people who wish to continue this tradition of excellence in law enforcement. The fund provides awards to Muskegon County students pursuing careers in law enforcement. These scholarships ensure that John Jurkas will continue to promote excellence in the field of law enforcement through the lasting gift of education.

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Merrie Schmiege 4-H Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the family of Merrie Schmiege, who established the Merrie Schmiege Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. This scholarship has been established by Maxine and Don Schmiege in memory of their daughter, Merrie, who died in a tragic automobile accident. Merrie was an active member of 4-H, received many local and state equestrian awards, taught horseback riding, and owned many horses. On account of her enthusiasm for equestrian activities and the programs of 4-H, Mr. and Mrs. Schmiege chose to create a Scholarship that provides financial support to young men and women who actively participate in these excellent programs. To the credit of the Schmiege's, Merrie's zeal and love of life will endure through the lasting gift of education.

The Children’s Relief Fund 

The Children’s Relief Fund (CRF) is a non-profit organization founded in 1991 by Rose and Frank Fotia. Their son Gregory had multiple disabilities and was the inspiration behind CRF. Our group consists of volunteers who raise money to help fund therapy, equipment, summer programs and other group activities for disabled children in the Hilton Head Island and Bluffton area.

Gregory Fotia Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is available to high school students and home-schooled students.

Career Fields applicable: Career field that benefits special needs children (e.g. Special Education, Pediatrics, Various Therapies)  

Service Area: All Hilton Head/Bluffton High Schools

Number of Awards: One or two

Duration/Renewal: One year

Financial Need: No

Criteria: A completed online application form and 250-word essay describing education and career choices.  Two character references.

Northern New York Community Foundation

Since 1929, the Northern New York Community Foundation has invested in improving and enriching the quality of life for all in communities across Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties.

Through partnerships with businesses and organizations, charitable foundations, and generous families and individual donors, the Community Foundation awards grants and scholarships from an endowment and collection of funds that benefit the region. Its commitment to donors helps individuals achieve their charitable objectives now and for generations to come by preserving and honoring legacies of community philanthropy while inspiring others.

Next Step Education Program

The Community Foundation’s Next Step Education Program is an ideal opportunity for students and working professionals who are pursuing career advancement and educational growth. The program aims to help individuals as they pursue postsecondary education and career training. It is designed to assist students of all ages, including recent high school graduates, adult learners, and nontraditional students, as they work to earn undergraduate degrees, professional certifications, or technical credentials that will advance their professional goals.

Whether enrolling in an accredited college, university, technical, or trade school or gaining industry-recognized certifications, the Next Step Education Program aims to help individuals achieve lasting success.

This opportunity is made possible by the generosity of donors who believe in the power of lifelong education. Their support ensures that more people in our community have access to the training and education they need to reach their goals.

Award amounts may be used for tuition, books, and course-related expense.

What educational avenues can I pursue?

The Next Step Education Program supports a wide range of educational and professional development pathways, including:

• Micro-credentials and professional certifications to strengthen skills or secure employment
• Courses or programs that lead to a degree
• Technical and trade school training for hands-on, high-demand careers
• Enhanced skills programs for career advancement or to help obtain new employment, such as Microsoft Office programs and more
• Programs at local BOCES campuses
• Professional licensing programs, including CDL and other industry-specific certifications

Thurman G. Adams and Hilda McCabe Adams Family Scholarship

Award:

• One-time award of $1,000.

Thomas A. & Mary Jo Russo Scholarship

Award:

• 4-year award of $5,000 per year. Students may be eligible to renew their scholarship for up to three additional years, provided they continue in the same degree program. 

Robert J. & Kathryn W. Davis Scholarship

Award:

4-year award of $7,500 per year, renewable each year. Student must maintain a 2.75 GPA and remain in their major to renew their award each year. Possible medical school awards could follow if applicant moves on to medical school.