Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in South Dakota

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Brian Conner Memorial Scholarship Fund

This scholarship is in memory of Brian Conner, a 1995 graduate of Courtland High School. The fund will provide scholarships to graduating seniors of Spotsylvania High Schools who have lettered in cross country or long distance track, who have exhibited leadership abilities, and who have demonstrated a desire to exceed expectations in all endeavors. Brian loved long distance running and received 12 Varsity letters for cross-country, indoor and outdoor track. He also received an academic letter for his high scholastic achievements. Brian is remembered for his motivation and his desire for individual and team success. He encouraged others to excel through his own performance, his compassionate manner and caring smile. He attended Mary Washington College for two years until joining the United States Marine Corps in 1997. The Marines considered him a leader with character. 

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Betty Booker Lontz Scholarship Fund

This scholarship fund was established in August 2013 by Betty Lontz, a life-long swimmer and devoted and beloved swim instructor. Growing up in Bon Air, Virginia, Betty’s parents collaborated with four other families to build the Bon Air Pool. By 5 years old, she was swimming with the Midgets – children several years older – rather than the Mites. By age ten, she was swimming on a National championship relay team and, though the expense of the trip prevented it, invited to the 1960 Olympics.

Betty began teaching swimming when she was 14 years old. She trained with the West Hampton College swimmers while in high school and took a job at the pool at The Homestead when she graduated. The late 1960’s found Betty at Fort Lee, Virginia teaching lifeguarding skills to returning Vietnam veterans preparing for the United States Special Services. It was there she met her first husband, Bill Lontz. Having been known to say, “If I can find a guy who can out swim me, I’ll marry him,” she was true to her word and married him after two dates. They were married 39 years until his death in 2007.

The young couple moved to Europe for two years, where Betty started another swimming program. On returning to Virginia and the Fredericksburg area, she was instrumental in establishing the pool at Curtis Park. Her well-known Fredericksburg Swim School business (originally called Country Swim School) began in 1975. Over the years, Betty taught swimming and water safety skills to more than 10,000 children -- including some who became Olympic caliber swimmers.

Betty Lontz passed away on November 5, 2015. She attributed her lifetime of swimming with her resiliency in the face of the genetic condition Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS. “Wellness is my story,” said Betty. She believed that, “it’s just smart for people to stay healthy.” In the face of growing social issues that stem from illness, it just makes sense for people to preserve and grow an asset like physical health. On the individual, societal and global levels, the study of wellness is a key to vitality and well-being, including reducing costs to society. “Pathology is important, but promoting good health and preventing illness make so much sense.”

Each year, at least two $500 scholarships will be given to area graduating high school seniors.

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Baron P. “Deuce” Braswell II Memorial Scholarship Fund

This scholarship fund was created in memory of Baron P. “Deuce” Braswell II of Spotsylvania. Baron was the son of Baron Purnell Braswell and Gwendolyn Sue Braswell and he died tragically January 20, 2006. He was a junior and an honor student at Courtland High School. Baron was a very spiritual person and was an active member of the football, basketball, baseball and track teams, known for thanking God for his athletic abilities.

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Anne Koepfinger Inspiring Educators Memorial Award

Anne Koepfinger, a dedicated Special Education teacher, devoted over 28 years of her life to teaching and positively impacting the lives of countless students with learning disabilities. Her unwavering commitment to education and profound influence on students left an indelible mark on the community.

In remembrance of Anne’s remarkable contributions, her family recently established The Anne Koepfinger Inspiring Educators Memorial Award through The Community Foundation. This scholarship serves as a beacon of hope and encouragement, designed to inspire students to follow in Anne’s footsteps and pursue careers in the field of education.

The Koepfinger family recognized that the best way to honor Anne’s memory was to support and uplift the next generation of educators. They understood that the impact of a dedicated and passionate teacher reaches far beyond the classroom. A scholarship in Anne’s name would not only serve as a tribute to her life and work but would also empower aspiring educators to make a meaningful difference in the lives of future students.

The legacy of a beloved educator continues to inspire and touch the lives of students through this scholarship.

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

Linda and Billy Beale Scholarship

The Linda and Billy Beale Scholarship Fund was created to support charitable projects in the community that has been home to their family for many years. Friends and colleagues know Linda and Billy as individuals who are deeply engaged in the fabric of the region – and especially Caroline County – through the business community, through their civic and social lives, and through their family’s involvement in their church and schools.

When thinking about a focal point for their charitable giving through this scholarship fund, the Beale’s were drawn to the school athletic “families” that have meant so much to them and their children over the years. Billy served as assistant baseball coach from 1999 to 2003 and Linda served as assistant volleyball coach from 1998 to 2006. The family also has history of involvement with Caroline Little League that began when their son played t-ball in the 1980’s and continued through their daughter’s service as a board member as an adult. The Beale's continue to show their support by participating in Little League special events today.

The Wenatchee Kiwanis Foundation Scholarship supports graduating seniors from Chelan or Douglas County high schools who demonstrate financial need and community service. Ideal candidates are Key Club members or have family ties to Kiwanis, showcasing above-average academic performance with a minimum GPA of 2.5. This scholarship emphasizes service to others, requiring at least 200 hours of community involvement during high school. It aims to empower well-rounded students committed to making a difference in their communities.

The Wenatchee Rotary Foundation Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, aims to enhance educational opportunities for graduates from the Wenatchee area. This scholarship supports full-time students pursuing higher education, particularly those who are first-generation college attendees. Candidates must demonstrate academic strength, leadership, and community service, with a minimum GPA of 2.5. Special consideration is given to applicants with financial need, fostering a more inclusive educational environment.

About

Central Carolina Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps generous people give back to the Midlands of South Carolina in ways that matter. Since 1984, we’ve been a trusted partner, helping individuals, families, and businesses make smart, meaningful contributions that support local nonprofits, scholarships, and community projects.

Franklin Hines Scholarship ($3,600)

This renewable scholarship is available to students who are graduating seniors from one of the following high schools: Hartsville High School, Darlington High School, Lamar High School, or McBee High School. 

The Wenatchee Women’s Bowling Association – Opal Wickland Scholarship, established by Cheryl Pope, honors the legacy of top bowler Opal Wickland. This scholarship supports youth bowlers in the Wenatchee Valley, encouraging them to pursue higher education. Eligible applicants include graduating high school seniors entering college, who demonstrate academic achievement. The WBA aims to recognize and reward dedication to bowling, while helping students achieve their educational dreams.

About

Central Carolina Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps generous people give back to the Midlands of South Carolina in ways that matter. Since 1984, we’ve been a trusted partner, helping individuals, families, and businesses make smart, meaningful contributions that support local nonprofits, scholarships, and community projects.

Handel-Carter Assistance Fund ($2,200)

This renewable scholarship was established to provide educational opportunities for people living, or those who have lived within the past two years, in a Richland County transitional housing program or within Columbia Housing Authority transitional housing in Columbia, SC. 

Society of Toxicology

Founded in 1961, the Society of Toxicology (SOT) is a professional and scholarly organization of scientists from academic institutions, government, and industry representing the great variety of scientists who practice toxicology in the US and abroad. The Society’s mission is to create a safer and healthier world by advancing the science and increasing the impact of toxicology. SOT operates under four guiding principles:

• Serving the needs of the scientific discipline and our members to enhance human, animal, and environmental health.
• Life-long learning and intellectual scientific stimulation.
• Diversity of representation in all activities of the Society.
• Integrity.

OTSS Annual “Paper of the Year” Award

Description

Each year, the Taylor & Francis Paper of the Year Award is presented to the best paper in the area of ocular toxicology published in Cutaneous and Ocular Toxicology.

Nominations from the membership will not be solicited. The OTSS Executive Committee will review and select the best paper among publications in Cutaneous and Ocular Toxicology between 01 January and 31 December of the year preceding the Society of Toxicology (SOT) Annual Meeting.

The award will be announced at the reception of the Ocular Toxicology Specialty Section (OTSS) held during the SOT Annual Meeting. The recipient will receive a certificate of recognition from Taylor & Francis at the OTSS reception and a subscription to Cutaneous and Ocular Toxicology.

About

Central Carolina Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps generous people give back to the Midlands of South Carolina in ways that matter. Since 1984, we’ve been a trusted partner, helping individuals, families, and businesses make smart, meaningful contributions that support local nonprofits, scholarships, and community projects.

Jacqueline M. Miller Scholarship ($1,700)

This non-renewable scholarship is for high school seniors graduating from a high school in Fairfield County, South Carolina. 

The Towsley Foundation Grants support initiatives that enhance community welfare and sustainability, focusing on diverse fields such as education, health, and the arts within Michigan. With a commitment to effective philanthropy, the foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate creativity and strategic impact. Eligible organizations must operate in Michigan and adhere to specific funding guidelines, fostering financial sustainability. Grants are allocated based on project merit and organizational capacity, reinforcing the foundation's mission to improve lives through thoughtful partnerships.

The William and Elizabeth Robinson Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, supports graduating seniors from Chelan or Douglas county high schools who demonstrate significant financial need. Ideal candidates are hardworking, motivated students with a GPA between 3.3 and 3.80. This scholarship honors the Robinsons' legacy of valuing education and community service, assisting those who aspire to pursue higher education and contribute positively to society.

Society of Toxicology

Founded in 1961, the Society of Toxicology (SOT) is a professional and scholarly organization of scientists from academic institutions, government, and industry representing the great variety of scientists who practice toxicology in the US and abroad. The Society’s mission is to create a safer and healthier world by advancing the science and increasing the impact of toxicology. SOT operates under four guiding principles:

• Serving the needs of the scientific discipline and our members to enhance human, animal, and environmental health.
• Life-long learning and intellectual scientific stimulation.
• Diversity of representation in all activities of the Society.
• Integrity.

OTSS Career Achievement Award

Description

The Ocular Toxicology Specialty Section (OTSS) recognizes a Senior Investigator for the achievement or contribution of a particularly influential body of work to the field of ocular toxicology. This award is presented to SOT members who are scientists in academia, industry, or those who have had an impact on regulation in the field.

Nomination is required for this award. The nominator (or self-nomination) should provide a discussion of the role that the candidate’s work has played in any of the below 4 points of criteria. A curriculum vitae and bibliography are required to be included. A letter of recommendation from another investigator in the field is not mandatory but encouraged. Nominations of candidates not selected will be considered for two additional award cycles unless the nomination is withdrawn by the nominator.

Nominations are encouraged with respect to any of the following criteria:

• Contribution to the field of ocular toxicology—depth and breadth of scientific contributions and significance of contributions for advancing the field
• Major influence in the education/training/mentorship of young scientists in the field of ocular toxicology including training in government, industry, or academia
• Leadership and service to the ocular toxicology field including involvement in the Specialty Section or other meetings/organizations related to ocular toxicology
• Influence on regulatory and risk/safety assessment decisions related to ocular toxicology

The award will be announced at the OTSS reception held during the SOT Annual Meeting. The recipient will receive a certificate, monetary award of $1,000 and will give a short (approximately 10 mins) presentation of their work at the OTSS reception held during the SOT Annual Meeting.

About

Central Carolina Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps generous people give back to the Midlands of South Carolina in ways that matter. Since 1984, we’ve been a trusted partner, helping individuals, families, and businesses make smart, meaningful contributions that support local nonprofits, scholarships, and community projects.

Jeryl Salmond II Memorial Scholarship ($1,700)

This renewable scholarship is available to students who are pursuing a career in the Mental Health field. 

About

Central Carolina Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps generous people give back to the Midlands of South Carolina in ways that matter. Since 1984, we’ve been a trusted partner, helping individuals, families, and businesses make smart, meaningful contributions that support local nonprofits, scholarships, and community projects.

Junior League of Columbia Scholarship ($3,000)

The Junior League of Columbia created this non-renewable scholarship to assist students who attended one of the elementary schools located in Richland School District One in Columbia, SC. 

Society of Toxicology

Founded in 1961, the Society of Toxicology (SOT) is a professional and scholarly organization of scientists from academic institutions, government, and industry representing the great variety of scientists who practice toxicology in the US and abroad. The Society’s mission is to create a safer and healthier world by advancing the science and increasing the impact of toxicology. SOT operates under four guiding principles:

• Serving the needs of the scientific discipline and our members to enhance human, animal, and environmental health.
• Life-long learning and intellectual scientific stimulation.
• Diversity of representation in all activities of the Society.
• Integrity.

MDCPSS Lifetime Career Achievement Award

Description

The MDCPSS Lifetime Career Achievement Award honors a senior investigator whose body of work represents an outstanding and sustained contribution to the field of toxicology as it relates to medical devices and/or combination products.

This award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated scientific excellence, leadership, mentorship, and influence in advancing the safety evaluation, regulatory science, and innovation in this specialized area of toxicology.

Nominations of candidates not selected will be considered for up to two additional years, unless withdrawn by the sponsor.

Award Recognition

The awardee will receive a plaque and will be recognized at the MDCPSS Reception during the SOT Annual Meeting.

The ASTRO-PCF Young Investigator Award, a collaboration between the Prostate Cancer Foundation and the American Society for Radiation Oncology, supports early-career researchers in prostate cancer. It offers $225,000 over three years to young investigators under 35, enabling them to further their research and career. Awardees are required to participate in the Annual PCF Scientific Retreat and Young Investigator Forum, fostering a community dedicated to advancing the field of radiation oncology.

Society of Toxicology

Founded in 1961, the Society of Toxicology (SOT) is a professional and scholarly organization of scientists from academic institutions, government, and industry representing the great variety of scientists who practice toxicology in the US and abroad. The Society’s mission is to create a safer and healthier world by advancing the science and increasing the impact of toxicology. SOT operates under four guiding principles:

• Serving the needs of the scientific discipline and our members to enhance human, animal, and environmental health.
• Life-long learning and intellectual scientific stimulation.
• Diversity of representation in all activities of the Society.
• Integrity.

MDCPSS Early Career Achievement Award

Description

The MDCPSS Early Career Achievement Award recognizes the research accomplishments of young scientists in the early stages of their careers who have demonstrated excellence in toxicological research related to medical devices and/or combination products.

Award Categories

Up to two award recipients will be selected:

• One undergraduate or graduate student
• One postdoctoral fellow or early-career scientist (≤5 years post-graduation)

Award Recognition

• Each recipient will receive a plaque and a monetary award to support travel to the SOT Annual Meeting.
• Awardees will be recognized at the MDCPSS Reception and invited to give a 5-minute overview presentation of their work.

The Grand Haven Rotary/Lynne Sherwood STRIVE Scholarship supports graduating seniors from Grand Haven Area Public Schools, especially Central High School, who have benefitted from a mentor's guidance while pursuing their diploma or GED. Scholarships are awarded based on financial need and academic achievements, with a thorough selection process by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation. Applicants can submit one application for multiple scholarships, streamlining access to financial support for their educational goals.

The SDA Award of Excellence recognizes innovative achievements in textile and fiber arts, promoting the mission of the Surface Design Association (SDA). This prestigious award is presented to artists exhibiting exceptional work in current exhibitions, emphasizing creativity and excellence. Recipients receive a one-year premium digital membership in SDA, which includes various member benefits. By celebrating artistic accomplishments, the award aims to enhance awareness of the SDA's commitment to supporting textile and fiber artists and their contributions to the community.

The Project Lifesaver International Grant by the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America aims to fund programs that prevent wandering and enhance public safety for individuals with dementia-related illnesses. This grant supports public safety agencies that are members of AFA and Project Lifesaver International, focusing on essential training, supplies, and community outreach. Grants are awarded biannually, promoting better care and safety for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Craig “Cujo, Jr.” Bennett Scholarship Fund

Established in June 2015, the Craig “Cujo, Jr.” Bennett Scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior who has excelled in the face of adversity. This scholarship was established in memory of Craig Daniel Bennett, known as Cujo, Jr – a reference to his father’s flight call sign and to the way a seemingly harmless and vulnerable young person could grow into a passionate and powerful individual. Challenged by extensive multiple physical issues, he defied the negative predictions of skeptical doctors again and again. Craig sometimes encountered people who had difficulty seeing past his wheelchair to who he really was – for them he was a source of surprise and, once his dynamic personality made itself known, a source of inspiration. Craig was a goal-oriented fighter who whitewater rafted the New River and was elected Homecoming King at Bluefield College. He had dreams of walking to receive his diploma and of sky diving.

Craig wanted to be seen as “normal”. Those who knew him saw more than that, he was extraordinary.

Knowing that his life expectancy was shorter than average, Craig asked his parents to establish a scholarship in his memory. Craig Daniel was the recipient of a Bootstrap Scholarship, which is given to nominees that demonstrate the effort and will to succeed in the face of adversity. Award winners are chosen by how well they demonstrate the concept of "pulling yourself up by your bootstraps." The Craig “Cujo, Jr.” Bennett Scholarship Fund also recognizes a student who uses determination and force of will to overcome odds, to meet hardship and to succeed in achieving their dreams.

The Anne & Irving Brodsky Innovation Grant, offered by the Alzheimer's Foundation of America, provides $25,000 to support innovative programs that enhance the lives of individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease and related conditions. This grant is exclusively available to AFA nonprofit member organizations, with funding directed towards essential program expenses such as staff training, administrative costs, and necessary supplies. The initiative aims to foster advancements in care and support for families dealing with Alzheimer's.

The Austin Education Foundation Scholarship, established by a committee from the Austin School District, aims to support local high school seniors in their pursuit of post-secondary education. With an estimated total award of $3,500 over four years, the scholarship is designed to honor the legacy of Austin High School Alumni. To be eligible, applicants must belong to the Austin School District and submit an activity resume, facilitating a pathway for deserving students to achieve their educational dreams.

The Liz Myers Scholarship, offered by the Ashland County Community Foundation, aims to support graduating seniors from Ashland County High Schools pursuing a degree in Veterinary Medicine or a related field. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and be accepted into an accredited college or university. This scholarship honors Liz Myers' dedication to animal health and welfare, reflecting her belief in the profound bond between humans and animals.