Best Ulster County Grants for Nonprofits in New York

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley

The Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley (CFHV) is a philanthropic community foundation that empowers individuals, families, businesses, and organizations to fulfill their charitable goals and strengthen communities across Dutchess, Putnam, and Ulster counties in New York. Through the establishment and stewardship of nearly 600 charitable funds totaling over $100 million in assets, CFHV has distributed hundreds of millions in grants and scholarships to address critical needs, including food insecurity, education, senior services, arts and culture, social services, environmental initiatives, and more. The Foundation works with donors to build lasting charitable legacies, offers leadership on community issues, and provides grants and scholarships that create both immediate relief and long-term positive impact throughout the Hudson Valley. 

Kathleen H. Zwissler Memorial Scholarship

Established by Adams Fairacre Farms in honor of Kathleen H. Zwissler, this scholarship provides financial assistance to high school seniors and college students in the Hudson Valley. Eligible applicants must be employees of Adams Fairacre Farms, Inc. or members of an employee’s immediate family and maintain a B average or better. The scholarship awards one non-renewable, one-time payment of $2,000, payable directly to the recipient’s school, to support postsecondary education at an accredited institution.

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley

The Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley (CFHV) is a philanthropic community foundation that empowers individuals, families, businesses, and organizations to fulfill their charitable goals and strengthen communities across Dutchess, Putnam, and Ulster counties in New York. Through the establishment and stewardship of nearly 600 charitable funds totaling over $100 million in assets, CFHV has distributed hundreds of millions in grants and scholarships to address critical needs, including food insecurity, education, senior services, arts and culture, social services, environmental initiatives, and more. The Foundation works with donors to build lasting charitable legacies, offers leadership on community issues, and provides grants and scholarships that create both immediate relief and long-term positive impact throughout the Hudson Valley. 

Judith Mitchell Drabkin ‘On My Own’ Scholarship

Established by Brian Drabkin in memory of his wife Judith, this scholarship honors the transformative impact of financial support on students who lack traditional family or housing support while pursuing higher education. The award assists graduating high school seniors and current undergraduate students from Dutchess and Ulster Counties who have overcome significant personal obstacles and can demonstrate financial need. Preference is given to applicants who have pursued their education without a strong support system, alongside consideration of academic achievement. One scholarship of at least $1,000 is awarded annually, and while it is not renewable, recipients may reapply in subsequent years.

The Korean American Community Foundation (KACF) offers a community grant to support programs enhancing the economic security of low-income Korean Americans. This multi-year grant provides up to $100,000 annually for organizations focused on education, employment, and financial stability. KACF prioritizes partnerships that address the unique challenges faced by Korean Americans, fostering a culture of giving and community engagement to empower individuals and transform lives.

Our Programs

For over 25 years, Glynwood Center for Regional Food and Farming has been a leader in building a resilient and equitable food system in New York’s Hudson Valley. Through four interconnected strategies, we strengthen our region’s food system while serving as a national model for transformative, regionally-based solutions.

Core Strategies

Our strategic approaches are not standalone efforts, but a dynamic, interwoven framework that collectively advances our vision of a resilient and equitable regional food system. By incorporating all four strategies into every one of our programs, we create comprehensive solutions that amplify our impact across the agricultural landscape.

Hudson Valley Farm Relief Fund

The Glynwood Center for Food and Farming established the Hudson Valley Farm Relief Fund, an emergency initiative to provide critical financial assistance to farms across eleven New York counties that have lost expected USDA funding due to the federal funding freeze. The Fund was a time-limited initiative, and is separate from Glynwood's core programming.

The Dennis and Barbara Marion Family Charitable Foundation is committed to supporting a wide range of causes including children's well-being, education, the arts, healthcare, and environmental conservation. With a focus on community impact, the foundation empowers organizations to address pressing challenges and create meaningful change. Since its inception, it has funded transformative initiatives that enhance quality of life and uplift communities, reflecting the Marions' legacy of compassion and dedication to service.

The New York-New Jersey Harbor & Estuary Program (HEP) is inviting proposals for habitat restoration projects that support wildlife in the Hudson-Raritan Estuary. With $250,000 available, HEP aims to distribute funding through two to four grants for projects lasting one or two years. These initiatives are crucial for enhancing local ecosystems and engaging communities in conservation efforts, as outlined in the Comprehensive Restoration Plan.

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley 

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley (CFHV) empowers individuals, families, businesses, and organizations to fulfill their philanthropic goals through the establishment of charitable funds that support the needs of Dutchess, Putnam and Ulster counties. With over $100 million in assets, CFHV manages nearly 600 charitable funds and has distributed more than $777 million in grants and scholarships since January 2000. We lead initiatives to address urgent community needs such as food insecurity and educational challenges, offering both immediate relief and long-term support.

Ulster County Community Grant

The Community Foundations Community Grant Program is an annual opportunity to provide nonprofits with unrestricted General Operating Support (GOS). GOS grants are flexible and allow funds to support an organization’s ongoing administrative and infrastructure costs and to provide support to maintain existing, effective programs, organizational development and capacity building in Dutchess, Putnam and Ulster Counties.

Funding Focus

Funding will support a broad variety of organizations and programming, including: effective and innovative programs in the areas of human services (food security, mental house, housing), arts and culture, education and youth, health, the environment and civic affairs. Funding will have a focus on benefiting people who are from historically marginalized and under-funded communities or populations based on their race, ethnicity, age, gender/gender identity, socioeconomic status, health status, abilities or geographic location.

General Operating Support grants will provide unrestricted support to the organization but can include specific support such as:

• Planning and/or the direct implementation of the program
• Technology, equipment, or material costs
• Strategic planning, staff/board development and/or succession planning
• Management systems (financial, HR)
• Marketing and communications
• Investments to increase organizational capacity

The NRA Foundation provides funding through its State Fund Grant Program to support local groups focused on shooting sports, education, and community outreach. Grants aim to benefit youth, women, veterans, and law enforcement, requiring applicants to have a valid EIN and meet specific eligibility criteria. Since its inception, the foundation has awarded over 60,000 grants totaling more than $473 million, ensuring that funds are used for charitable purposes as defined by the IRS.

The Hudson Valley Animal Shelter Fund, established by Jean Rowe's generous bequest, aims to support nonprofit animal welfare agencies in the Hudson Valley indefinitely. Priority is given to organizations in Orange, Dutchess, Ulster, Putnam, Sullivan, and Rockland Counties that focus on rescuing and sheltering animals. Eligible applicants must qualify as 501(c)(3) nonprofits or be fiscally sponsored, and serve residents of Orange and Sullivan counties.

The A. Lindsay and Olive B. O’Connor Foundation offers grants exceeding $5,000 to support projects that directly benefit Delaware County, NY. While proposals under $100,000 are preferred, larger submissions are also considered. Eligible applicants include municipalities, religious organizations, and IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) entities. The foundation does not fund individuals or projects seeking repayment for debts. Its primary focus remains on enhancing the quality of life in Delaware County.

The MRT Health Homes Supportive Housing Program, funded by the New York State Department of Health, allocates $86,876,000 over five years to support permanent rental subsidies and housing services for vulnerable homeless Medicaid members. This initiative aims to improve access to health services and stable housing through various permissible uses of funds, including rental subsidies, housing navigation services, and support for life skills development.

The HRE Grants for Local Stewardship Planning, funded by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, aims to enhance the Hudson River Estuary ecosystem. With approximately $750,000 available, these grants support projects like feasibility studies, assessments, and the development of guidance documents to improve community infrastructure and protect vital water resources. Minimum grant requests start at $10,500, while the maximum is $75,000, encouraging a wide range of impactful initiatives.

The Thomas and Corinne Nyquist Foundation provides small grants to nonprofit organizations in New Paltz, NY, and Roosevelt County, MT, focusing on local initiatives. Established in 2004, the foundation prioritizes projects that serve the communities of Bainville, Culbertson, and Froid. Applicants must demonstrate how funds will be used and must be registered nonprofits or sponsored by one. Grants typically range from $500 to $2000, with a preference for new needs and organizations that have not previously received funding.

The Nonprofit Resource Training Grant offers up to $1,000 for tax-exempt organizations to send employees to essential training and conferences. This initiative supports community-based groups that serve low- to moderate-income populations and align with The Ready Commitment. By enhancing employee skills, the grant aims to strengthen nonprofits and their impact in the community, ensuring they provide valuable services effectively.

The Neighborhood Builders Program, supported by Bank of America, empowers 501(c)(3) nonprofits through a two-year leadership development initiative. Participants receive funding, training, and networking opportunities to enhance their impact in communities. Since its inception, the program has invested over $346 million, training more than 4,000 leaders. The initiative focuses on advancing social mobility and economic opportunities, ensuring affordable housing, and fostering resilient communities. This program is vital for nonprofits aiming to strengthen their leadership and community engagement.

The NSF Rapid Response Grants support grassroots organizations in New York City and the Hudson Valley that are led by people directly impacted by injustice. These grants enable activists to respond to urgent threats or opportunities, aiming for specific outcomes within three to six months. Emphasizing systemic change, the fund prioritizes organizations that are democratically structured and focus on social justice, particularly those with limited access to traditional funding sources.

The Hudson Valley Farm Fresh Food Grant Program, offered by the Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley, aims to enhance access to local, farm-fresh food for food-insecure individuals in Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, and Ulster counties. With funding up to $20,000 annually for three years, the program prioritizes innovative solutions and collaborative efforts to address food insecurity while integrating equity and social justice. Grants will be available for eligible nonprofit organizations from 2023 to 2025.

The Orange and Sullivan Fund for Women and Children, managed by the Community Foundation, aims to empower vulnerable women and children through targeted funding. Although currently not accepting applications, it seeks proposals from nonprofits in the region to enhance their programs. Since its inception in 1999, the foundation has provided over $24 million in grants, fostering community growth and resilience, especially during challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Rural Arts Initiative Grant Program, established by the Laura Jane Musser Fund, aims to support nonprofit arts organizations in rural communities. The program encourages access to the arts through scholarships, community engagement, and innovative activities. Priority is given to organizations located in areas with populations under 20,000, ensuring that artistic opportunities are available to both adults and children. Applications are accepted for one year of funding, with potential for up to three consecutive years.

The Intercultural Harmony Initiative Grant, provided by the Laura Jane Musser Fund, supports collaborative projects that foster understanding and cooperation among diverse cultural groups. With funding up to $25,000 for implementation and $5,000 for planning, the initiative prioritizes projects that engage various community members, enhance intercultural communication, and demonstrate tangible benefits. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and local governments in select states, with a focus on grassroots participation and addressing community needs.

The JGS Fellowship for Photography offers a $7,000 cash grant to photography artists residing in New York State, excluding New York City. This competitive fellowship supports five artists engaged in traditional and experimental photography. Funded by The Joy of Giving Something, the fellowship aims to assist artists in creating new works and exhibitions. Eligible applicants must be at least 25 years old and have lived in a qualifying region of New York State for at least 12 months.

The Intervention & Prevention Grant Program, managed by Episcopal Charities of the Diocese of New York, aims to support organizations addressing critical community needs. With over $25 million granted since 1996, the program focuses on fighting hunger, aiding the unemployed, and enhancing educational opportunities for children. It prioritizes non-religious, inclusive missions and requires grantees to be sponsored by a church within the Diocese. Through this program, Episcopal Charities strives to significantly impact over 1 million lives annually.

Episcopal Charities of the Diocese of New York focuses on providing essential funding and support to local organizations addressing critical needs in communities. Since 1996, they have granted over $25 million, with initiatives including shelter and immigration support, food access, and youth educational opportunities. Their programs are inclusive and free of religious content, serving asylum seekers, immigrants, and those facing housing insecurity. This commitment ensures a positive impact on over 1 million lives annually.

The Youth Education and Development Grant Program by Episcopal Charities aims to enhance educational opportunities for children in New York. This program funds organizations that provide year-round academic enrichment, arts, and music programs. With over $25 million granted since 1996, it focuses on supporting non-religious, charitable missions that serve underserved communities. Grantees are required to complete a timely application and adhere to training requirements, ensuring impactful support for youth development.

The Intensive and Sustained Engagement Teams (INSET) RFP by the New York State Office of Mental Health aims to enhance trauma-informed and equitable mental health support for underserved individuals. By contracting with peer-run organizations, the initiative seeks to implement INSET in areas lacking this service, promoting community engagement and support for those traditionally disengaged from mental health services.

The KeyBank Foundation offers Community Sponsorships to support local organizations in their fundraising efforts. These sponsorships range from $500 to $5,000 and can fund events or provide general operating support. Applications are accepted from January to October, with a decision made within 90 days. Eligible nonprofits must serve areas where KeyBank operates and adhere to strict ineligibility criteria, including no support for individuals or organizations that discriminate based on various identities.

The Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley offers Community Grants to provide unrestricted General Operating Support (GOS) for nonprofits in Dutchess, Putnam, and Ulster Counties. These grants, capped at $5,000, focus on supporting organizations that serve historically marginalized communities. Funding can be used for administrative costs, capacity building, and essential program maintenance, addressing needs in areas such as human services, arts, education, health, and civic affairs, promoting community well-being.