Best Thousand Oaks Grants for Nonprofits in California

The Pittsburgh Foundation provides scholarship opportunities for students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four–year universities, graduate schools, and career/technical schools.

Pittsburgh ERG Scholarship Fund

The Pittsburgh ERG Scholarship formed by employees of Microsoft delivers on the mission of Microsoft’s local employee resource group to support diversity and inclusion. This scholarship enables high school students with disabilities and/or financial needs to go to college and pursue a career in technology. In addition, we hope to contribute to increasing the pool of people living with a disability enrolling in higher education and, in the long term, decrease the unemployment bias for this demographic. This scholarship will be awarded to promising high school seniors living in the city of Pittsburgh who plan to attend a vocational or academic college and have a financial need. The amount of this multi-year renewable scholarship is $12,000 payable over four years ($3,000 per year). (Immediate family members of Microsoft employees are not eligible for this scholarship.)

• Average Award: $12,000 over 4 years.
• Award Type: Multi-Year (up to 4 years). Recipients must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 and enrollment in the stated major.

The Professional Nurses of Southwestern PA Scholarship Fund, established by The Pittsburgh Foundation, supports nursing education for students in nine counties of southwestern Pennsylvania. This scholarship aims to assist those pursuing a Pre-Licensure RN, BSN, Master's, PhD, or DNP programs. Eligible applicants must have completed one semester in a nursing program and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. The fund continues the legacy of the Pennsylvania State Nurses Association, promoting leadership and service in nursing.

The Pocket Nurse Scholarship Fund, established by Pocket Nurse at The Pittsburgh Foundation, provides financial assistance to students pursuing education in Allied Health, Nursing, and Nursing Faculty. This initiative highlights the Foundation's commitment to supporting local students, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, as they strive to achieve their academic and career goals. With a minimum GPA requirement of 3.5, the program aims to empower the next generation of healthcare professionals.

The Pittsburgh Foundation provides scholarship opportunities for students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four–year universities, graduate schools, and career/technical schools.

Louise Salinger Academy of Fashion Fund

The Louise Salinger Academy of Fashion Fund was created at The Pittsburgh Foundation to provide scholarships to high school seniors in Allegheny County who wish to pursue a career in fashion design.

• Award varies
• Award Type: Single-Year Award

The Pittsburgh Young Professionals Scholarship Fund, established by The Pittsburgh Foundation, supports local students in their educational pursuits. It offers scholarships for high school seniors, undergraduates, and graduate students attending various educational institutions in the Greater Pittsburgh region. Eligible applicants must demonstrate volunteer experience, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, and be members of the Pittsburgh Young Professionals network. This initiative aims to foster professional and civic development among young individuals in the community.

The Pittsburgh Foundation provides scholarship opportunities for students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four–year universities, graduate schools, and career/technical schools.

Lightbown Family Scholarship Fund

The Lightbown Family Scholarship Fund was created at The Pittsburgh Foundation to provide scholarships for students from Allegheny County pursuing a career in education. Corinne Elsie Lightbown passed away peacefully on Jan. 7, 2017 at the age of 86 having lived a full and rewarding life. Connie, as she was known to friends, loved life, people, friends and family as well as traveling and discussing movies, political issues and literature. She was an English teacher for 34 years with the Mt. Lebanon High School and taught in London, England, and Japan. A firm believer in the value of a good education, she established this scholarship fund in her name to support students in their academic studies. She never married so had no children of her own, yet her many students became a part of her extended family through the years. Many remained in touch with her and considered her as a mentor and friend. It was her wish that this scholarship would continue beyond her life in this same spirit.

• Award varies
• Award Type: Single Year. Previous recipients are encouraged to re-apply in consecutive years.

The Pittsburgh Foundation provides scholarship opportunities for students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four–year universities, graduate schools, and career/technical schools.

R.K. Mellon Family Scholarship/Ligonier Valley Endowment Fund

The R.K. Mellon Family Scholarship/Ligonier Valley Endowment Fund was established at The Pittsburgh Foundation to provide scholarships to students in the Ligonier Valley School District. 

• Average Award: $5,000
• Award Type: Single-Year Award

The Pittsburgh Foundation

Established in 1945, The Pittsburgh Foundation is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and as of 2022 is the 18th largest of more than 750 similar foundations across the United States.

As a community foundation, its resources comprise endowment funds established by individuals, businesses and organizations with a passion for charitable giving and fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of improving quality of life for all in the region. The Foundation currently manages about 2,500 individual donor funds and, together with its supporting organizations and its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, has assets of $1.386 billion (2022). Grantmaking benefits a broad spectrum of basic needs and development opportunities within Pittsburgh and beyond.

Scholarships

The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County provide scholarship opportunities for local students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four-year universities and career/technical schools.

John-Elizabeth Blaho Miller Fund

The John-Elizabeth Blaho Miller Fund of The Pittsburgh Foundation was created to provide scholarship assistance for students, with a preference for students who have an awareness and appreciation of Hungarian culture, including its history, customs, and traditions, and who are undertaking a theological education in preparation for a ministry that draws upon Lutheran teachings in its worldview. John C. Miller was born in Budapest October 1910. In 1921 he immigrated to the United States with his parents (John Miller and Elizabeth Blaho Miller) where they resided in Ambridge, PA. For several years John was the manager of five motion picture houses owned by the Chateau Amusement Company. In 1955 he became a program supervisor at Buhl Planetarium where he retired at the age of 67 in 1977. In December 2001 John established this scholarship in memory of his parents.

Award Type: Single Year. Previous recipients are encouraged to re-apply in consecutive years.

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. Individuals and organizations are encouraged to establish a fund with us. 

Townsend, R.E. Educational Scholarship

This fund was established by the trustees of the R.E. Townsend Educational Fund to provide academic scholarships to students intending to further their education.

Guidelines:

Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis and disbursed in August.

Amount:

Minimum of $1,000 and maximum of $2,000 per recipient depending on the fund balance. 

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. Individuals and organizations are encouraged to establish a fund with us. 

St Joseph School District Foundation Wright, Gary C Scholarship

This fund was established in memory of Gary C Wright by his family to provide academic scholarships to graduating seniors of the St. Joseph School District intending to major in education with preference given to those in math and/or science.

Guidelines:

• Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis and disbursed in August.
• Awards are non-renewable.

Amount:

• $250 - $500

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. Individuals and organizations are encouraged to establish a fund with us. 

St Joseph School District Foundation Midland Empire Safety Association Scholarship

This fund was established by the Midland Empire Safety Association to provide academic scholarships to students pursuing a degree in occupational safety and/or health, industrial hygiene, environmental safety, industrial fire prevention, risk management and occupational medicine.

Guidelines:

Scholarship recipient is chosen by The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri’s Finance/Grant Committee. Scholarships will be awarded on a one-time basis and disbursed in August.

Amount:

Minimum of $500.00 to be paid at the start of the Fall semester.

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. Individuals and organizations are encouraged to establish a fund with us. 

St Joseph School District Foundation Steffen, Awalt & Helen Memorial Scholarship

Amount:

• $500.00

Number of Scholarships Available:

• 3

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. Individuals and organizations are encouraged to establish a fund with us. 

St Joseph School District Foundation Smith, Dr Melody Scholarship

This fund was established in recognition of Dr. Melody Smith by the St. Joseph School District Foundation to provide academic scholarships to graduates of the St. Joseph School District pursuing a degree in education.

Guidelines:

The scholarship is recurring for up to two years, payable in August and January. Before processing the payments, the following information will need to be sent to the Community Foundation during the sophomore year of college:

• Verification of acceptance into the Education Program from the Program Director (or a copy of the education major/minor form signed by the student and academic advisor)
• Letter from the University verifying your enrollment for the upcoming semester including the student ID number
• Verification from  the university that the student is maintaining a GPA of 3.0 or higher

Amount:

Minimum of $1,000 annually, for up to two years payable in August and January. The second installment will be released upon proof of good academic progress (transcript required as proof) and enrollment in the declared education program.

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. Individuals and organizations are encouraged to establish a fund with us. 

Steven, James W and Cecile I Scholarship Fund

This fund was established by the James W and Cecile I Steven Trust to provide academic scholarships to graduating seniors living in the counties of Andrew, MO or Buchanan, MO.

Guidelines:

• Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis and disbursed in August.

Amount:

• As many non-renewable awards as balance allows.

About Us

The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County is a resource for local charitable giving. Created by and for the people of San Luis Obispo County, The Community Foundation is an enduring source of charitable funds to meet the changing needs and interests of the region. We envision San Luis Obispo County as an inclusive haven where everyone, regardless of background, feels free to fully participate. In collaboration with our community partners and donors, we seek to foster a safe, respectful environment with ample opportunity for all to reach their potential and contribute to the success of our community. We invite you to join us in celebrating diversity, making sure all of our neighbors feel seen, and free from dehumanizing rhetoric and violence, as we shape a future where all residents can flourish. 

2025-2026 Scholarship Applications

Big dreams start here! With support from generous individuals, families, and businesses, the Community Foundation offers scholarships that help San Luis Obispo County students reach new heights in their education and careers.

Alan D. Stephenson Scholarship

The Alan D. Stephenson Scholarship was established to support promising LGBTQIA+ students to achieve their academic potential.

The Alfred I., Catharine J., and Eleanor G. Switzer Scholarship, offered by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, aims to support local youth residing in Los Osos, CA. This scholarship is open to high school seniors, undergraduates, and returning students, providing them with essential financial assistance to pursue their educational goals. By fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, the foundation encourages students to achieve their dreams and contribute positively to their community.

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. Individuals and organizations are encouraged to establish a fund with us. 

Liebling For Worthy Students Scholarship

This fund was established to provide academic scholarships to students graduating from the St. Joseph School District and past recipients.

Guidelines:

• Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis and disbursed in August.

Amount:

• Minimum of $1,500 one-time award

The Bernhard H. Singsen Scholarship, offered by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, supports young men from local high schools in pursuing a full-time liberal arts education. This scholarship aims to foster careers in education, civil or social service, and medicine. Open to high school seniors, undergraduates, and returning students, it embodies the foundation's commitment to empowering youth and enhancing community engagement in San Luis Obispo County.

The Burt W. and Virginia Polin ELKS Bureau Scholarship, offered by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, supports high school seniors, undergraduates, and returning students in their educational pursuits. This scholarship honors the legacy of the Polins and the values of the Elks Club, promoting charity, justice, and community service. With the foundation's commitment to inclusivity and support, applicants are encouraged to apply for this opportunity to help achieve their academic and career goals.

The Burt W. and Virginia Polin FARM Bureau Scholarship, provided by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, aims to support students pursuing careers in agriculture. Open to high school seniors and undergraduates, this scholarship fosters educational advancement and community growth. The Foundation emphasizes inclusivity and provides resources to help students thrive. Applications for the 2025-2026 academic year are now being accepted, encouraging local students to reach their educational aspirations.

The David B. Gianas Memorial Scholarship, offered by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, provides vital educational support for students with documented special needs. This scholarship aims to empower individuals who face unique challenges in achieving their educational aspirations due to financial constraints or a lack of encouragement. Open to high school seniors, undergraduates, and returning students, it seeks to foster inclusivity and uplift the community by helping students reach their fullest potential.

National Association for Plant Breeding

We are the culmination of a grass roots effort by plant breeders from around the USA to engender support for the work of plant breeders and to raise public awareness for the important work of plant breeders. We are led by an all-volunteer team nominated and elected by the membership.

The NAPB has a diverse membership of public and private sector scientists working to improve a wide variety of plants and graduate students working towards advanced degrees in plant breeding. We meet annually during the summer months enabling field tours to walk among the plants that our hosts are working to improve.

The National Association for Plant Breeding was formed as an organization to advance excellence in research, education and outreach in the field of plant improvement. 

NAPB Borlaug Graduate Scholars

The Borlaug Scholars program for graduate students was established by the National Association of Plant Breeders (NAPB) and funded through the Agronomic Science Foundation (ASF). Our aim is to develop the next generation of plant breeding leaders. Students attending U.S. universities looking to enter the workforce in less than two years are encouraged to apply. Self-nominations are encouraged. Borlaug Scholars will be paired with volunteer mentors who are professional NAPB members committeed to the professional development of the recipients. Each recipient will receive financial support for travel, lodging, and meals to participate in the NAPB Annual Meeting (or similar, if virtual meetings). Gratis meeting registration and student membership in NAPB, for non-members, is included.

Creative West

Established in 1974 as a nonprofit U.S. Regional Arts Organization (USRAO), Creative West was founded on the belief that place matters to the creative process. Fifty years later, communities of place, practice, experience, and identity remain fundamental to our work, framing our understanding of how culture is creatively produced and collectively experienced.

Creative West empowers artists and culture-makers with direct, practical resources, delivered regionally.

We offer practical, equity-centered learning experiences and funding opportunities that connect and inspire artists, culture-bearers and communities to build a more inclusive sector, strengthen the arts field, and catalyze change.

Native Arts and Heritage Fund

The Native Arts + Heritage Fund (NAHF) is a community-rooted award program created to support Native American and Alaska Native artists, culture bearers, and cultural practitioners across the Creative West region.

Co-designed with Native-centered artists, advisors, and community leaders, NAHF centers care, cultural continuity, and self-determination. The fund honors Indigenous ways of knowing and values process over product, relationship over compliance, and well-being as a meaningful measure of impact. In addition to unrestricted funding, selected artists will participate in a three-month virtual cohort experience designed for connection, reflection, and shared learning.

NAHF is administered by Creative West, an organization that uplifts artists and culture bearers across the Creative West region by providing funding, mentorship, and culturally rooted support.

This is not a project-based grant.

This is an invitation into funding and relationships.

Applicants must provide a letter of support from an Alaska Native or Native American community member who can speak to their relationship to community and cultural work.

Unrestricted Funds May Be Used For:

• Taking time to create, reflect, or rest
• Purchasing tools, materials, or supplies
• Covering food, rent, childcare, or transportation
• Supporting wellness: physical, emotional, spiritual, or cultural
• Participating in cultural exchanges, mentorship, or learning
• Creating space to gather, teach, or share knowledge

The Dorsi Blastervold Family Scholarship, offered by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, supports graduating high school seniors and graduate students from the Lucia Mar Unified School District with a minimum GPA of 2.9. This scholarship aims to help students achieve their educational goals and foster a diverse and inclusive community. Applications for the 2025-2026 academic year are now open, encouraging students to reach new heights in their education and careers.

About Us

The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County is a resource for local charitable giving. Created by and for the people of San Luis Obispo County, The Community Foundation is an enduring source of charitable funds to meet the changing needs and interests of the region. We envision San Luis Obispo County as an inclusive haven where everyone, regardless of background, feels free to fully participate. In collaboration with our community partners and donors, we seek to foster a safe, respectful environment with ample opportunity for all to reach their potential and contribute to the success of our community. We invite you to join us in celebrating diversity, making sure all of our neighbors feel seen, and free from dehumanizing rhetoric and violence, as we shape a future where all residents can flourish. 

2025-2026 Scholarship Applications

Big dreams start here! With support from generous individuals, families, and businesses, the Community Foundation offers scholarships that help San Luis Obispo County students reach new heights in their education and careers.

Garris Family Scholarship

The Garris Family Scholarship was established to support deserving students from public high schools or home-schooled programs in San Luis Obispo County in achieving post-secondary education. 

About Us

The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County is a resource for local charitable giving. Created by and for the people of San Luis Obispo County, The Community Foundation is an enduring source of charitable funds to meet the changing needs and interests of the region. We envision San Luis Obispo County as an inclusive haven where everyone, regardless of background, feels free to fully participate. In collaboration with our community partners and donors, we seek to foster a safe, respectful environment with ample opportunity for all to reach their potential and contribute to the success of our community. We invite you to join us in celebrating diversity, making sure all of our neighbors feel seen, and free from dehumanizing rhetoric and violence, as we shape a future where all residents can flourish. 

2025-2026 Scholarship Applications

Big dreams start here! With support from generous individuals, families, and businesses, the Community Foundation offers scholarships that help San Luis Obispo County students reach new heights in their education and careers.

Gary Grossman Scholarship

The Gary Grossman Scholarship was established to provide scholarship support for promising LGBTQIA+ students to achieve their full academic and leadership potential.

The Gary Paul Piantanida Scholarship, established by Paul and Edna Piantanida in memory of their son Gary, offers financial support to high school seniors, undergraduates, and returning students in San Luis Obispo County. This scholarship honors students who exemplify strong work ethic, dependability, and integrity, reflecting the values cherished by the Piantanidas. With a commitment to fostering educational opportunities, the Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County encourages applicants to pursue their dreams and contribute positively to their communities.