Best Grants for Community Centers in Vermont

The Bernie Smillie Memorial Scholarship was established in 2010, in memory of Freeland resident and business owner Bernie Smillie. Bernie passed away in 2000, due to complications from a lung transplant he had received in 1994. In 2005, family and friends of Bernie established the Bernie Smillie Memorial Golf Outing. Proceeds of this outing has helped to promote organ donor support and awareness and establish this scholarship fund.

Bernie Smillie Memorial Scholarship - Medical

Evaluation Criteria

• Leadership ability
• Financial need
• Academic performance
• Standardized test scores
• Special skills
• Awards and honors
• Community service
• Work experience
• Extracurricular school activities
• Overall involvement
• Career goals as demonstrated in essay
• Letter of recommendation.

LaFrancine Stallings Math & Science College Scholars

The LaFrancine Stallings Math & Science College Scholarship will provide renewable need-based scholarships of up to $6,375 to undergraduate juniors enrolled full-time pursuing a Science Technology Engineering Mathematics (STEM) major at any four-year accredited HBCU in the 2026-2027 school year.

ASEEES Internship Grant Program

Funded by an external grant, ASEEES’s Internship Grant Program provides incoming, current, and recent (i.e. those who have graduated no more than two years prior to the competition deadline) MA, PhD, and professional school students with grants that make it possible for them to accept unpaid or underpaid internships in areas broadly related to Russia, including Russia’s relations with other regions/countries.

The grant offers $2,000 a month, to be paid directly to the grantee (intern) during their internship. In the case of underpaid internships, ASEEES will work with the host institutions and the grantees to make sure the grantee receives a combined stipend of $2,000 per month or has an extended duration for the internship.

The Amy Erickson Memorial Award, provided by the Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation, supports full-time medical students entering their third or fourth year. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and be enrolled in clinical courses focusing on complementary and alternative therapies. This scholarship not only assists students in their educational pursuits but also aligns with the foundation's mission to enhance community well-being through philanthropy.

This funding opportunity aims to enhance cancer research among American Indian and Alaska Native populations, focusing on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment in rural areas. The initiative seeks to reduce cancer incidence and mortality rates while ensuring that research findings significantly improve health outcomes for these communities. Eligible organizations are invited to apply, with applications undergoing rigorous peer review to ensure only the most promising projects receive funding.

The Spirit of Sioux Falls Scholarship supports college students pursuing business degrees while emphasizing community engagement and academic excellence. Eligible applicants must reside in Lincoln or Minnehaha County, South Dakota, and maintain full-time enrollment in appropriate programs. The scholarship aims to inspire philanthropy and improve local quality of life through educational advancement. Notably, previous recipients are ineligible for reapplication, ensuring fresh opportunities for new candidates. Multiple awards are available, promoting further education in the business field.

The Worden Christian Youth Ministry Scholarship supports full-time students entering their third or fourth year at an accredited four-year college or university, who plan to pursue a career in youth ministry. Candidates must demonstrate financial need and engage in school and community activities. Preference is given to those intending to serve as youth ministers in the Sioux Falls area, ensuring that the scholarship aligns with the mission of enriching local lives through philanthropy.

The Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program Grant, initiated by State Farm and the National Volunteer Fire Council, aims to support volunteer fire departments in acquiring critical safety equipment. In 2025, the program will award $1.5 million in grants, providing $10,000 each to 150 eligible departments. This initiative not only enhances firefighter safety and operational efficiency but also fosters community service, ensuring that these departments are well-equipped to respond effectively to emergencies.

The Alaska Community Foundation

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives.

Scholarships at ACF

Each year, more than 60 scholarships are available to Alaska students—and it all starts with one simple application. With one login and one application, you’ll be considered for every scholarship you may be eligible for. Whether you’re taking your first step toward college, training for a career, or continuing your education, these scholarships are here to help carry you forward, backed by donors who believe in Alaska’s students and the futures they’re building. 

Brandon C. Reiley Scholarship Fund

Brandon was nothing if not a true adventurer and a friend to all. His laugh was almost always mischievous but also contagious. Brandon was a citizen of the world, living and visiting countless countries and maybe getting into a little trouble along the way. He loved meeting new people and roping them into projects and ideas or connecting them to like minded souls.

This scholarship, established in memory of Brandon C. Reiley, supports Alaskan students pursuing higher education degrees in the fields of science, sustainability, mathematics, education, or aviation. All of these areas were important to Brandon and it is the goal of this scholarship fund to support students with similar interests and goals.

Saginaw Area Health Care Administrators Scholarship

The Saginaw Area Health Care Administrators Scholarship was established in 1987 to help advance health care for the elderly and ill elderly. The scholarship provides cash awards to assist employees of association members in meeting educational expenses. Each year, employees in the areas of administration, nursing, dietary, maintenance, and other health-related occupations are invited to apply for scholarships.

The Alaska Community Foundation

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives.

Scholarships at ACF

Each year, more than 60 scholarships are available to Alaska students—and it all starts with one simple application. With one login and one application, you’ll be considered for every scholarship you may be eligible for. Whether you’re taking your first step toward college, training for a career, or continuing your education, these scholarships are here to help carry you forward, backed by donors who believe in Alaska’s students and the futures they’re building. 

Cael Askin Memorial Scholarship Fund

The donors establish the Cael Askin Memorial Scholarship in memory of their son, Cael (pronounced Kale) who died at age 25 in 2013 as a result of complications of Epilepsy. Cael was diagnosed with Asperger’s while in school and completed high school with a certified diploma utilizing an Individual Education Plan (IEP) through his time in school. The fund is intended to provide scholarships to Kenai students who have had Individualized Educational Plans (IEP’s).

The family of Cael Askin is honored to offer a $1,000 scholarship in his memory to support a graduating high school or home school senior receiving Special Education Services and intends to pursue secondary education or vocational/technical training.

The Citizens' Institute on Rural Design (CIRD), a partnership between the National Endowment for the Arts and the Housing Assistance Council, invites rural communities to apply for design support. CIRD aims to enhance rural life and economic viability through planning and creative placemaking, empowering local citizens to address unique community challenges. Opportunities include Local Design Workshops and a Design Learning Cohort, providing resources, training, and support to foster community-driven solutions.

The Alaska Community Foundation

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives.

Scholarships at ACF

Each year, more than 60 scholarships are available to Alaska students—and it all starts with one simple application. With one login and one application, you’ll be considered for every scholarship you may be eligible for. Whether you’re taking your first step toward college, training for a career, or continuing your education, these scholarships are here to help carry you forward, backed by donors who believe in Alaska’s students and the futures they’re building. 

CARTA Scholarship Endowment Fund - Liability

Central Alaska Retired Teachers' Association Scholarship Fund was established to provide financial support for undergraduate and graduate students majoring in education or working towards certifications that will enable them to become teachers or administrators in the public schools.

The Lozier Foundation

The Lozier Foundation is a private family foundation based in Omaha, Nebraska, funded by Allan and Dianne Lozier. The Foundation supports nonprofit organizations working to expand opportunity, strengthen communities, and improve quality of life for people and families who have historically had less access to resources.

The Foundation’s grantmaking is grounded in a long-term commitment to Omaha and the surrounding region. We are especially interested in work that helps level the playing field, supports people during important moments of need or transition, and gives individuals and families greater ability to make choices about their own lives and futures.

The Foundation’s support has historically focused on established nonprofit organizations working in areas such as education, human services, youth development, health, family stability, and community well-being. While those areas describe much of our grantmaking, they are not intended to serve as fixed categories or a comprehensive list.

The Foundation is selective in its grantmaking. We generally support organizations with a meaningful operating history, capable leadership, sound governance, financial discipline, and a demonstrated ability to serve the community effectively. The Foundation does not typically support early-stage organizations, small projects or organizations with limited reach, or requests that fall outside our geographic and charitable priorities.

The Foundation also considers whether a request reflects a clear understanding of the existing community landscape. We are generally skeptical of efforts that duplicate services already being provided effectively by other organizations, particularly when collaboration, coordination, or partnership would better serve the community. Organizations seeking support should be prepared to explain how their work fits within the broader field, who they collaborate with, and why the proposed work is needed.

Grants

Grantseekers wishing to apply to the Lozier Foundation should begin by reviewing the Mission, Values, Funding Priorities and Funding Eligibility Statements.

The Lozier Foundation grant applications include: Capital Application; Education Application; General Application; and Program Application.

Organizations may receive general operating, program, and capital grants. While The Lozier Foundation prefers to provide ongoing general operating support, organizations can receive a program and/or capital grant in the same calendar year.

Lozier Foundation General Application

Funding Priorities

• Education
• Women & Girls
• North Omaha Initiatives
• Human Services

The General Application follows the foundation guidelines provided here.

Central Kentucky Community Foundation

Established in 1960 as North Central Education Foundation, Central Kentucky Community Foundation is one of more than 780 community foundations in the United States today. We serve the Lincoln Trail Region, offering our donors and partners a variety of ways to touch our community through philanthropic giving.

Robin Bohannon Scholarship

Applicant must reside in one of 9 counties served by CKCF (Breckinridge, Grayson, Hardin, Hart, LaRue, Marion, Meade, Nelson, and Washington)

The AGS Infrastructure Cluster oversees critical facilities for atmospheric and geospace sciences research, primarily focusing on the NSF National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR). Located in Boulder, Colorado, NCAR serves as a hub for atmospheric science, providing advanced computer models, supercomputing, and extensive data to support university researchers. Through a cooperative agreement with the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research, NCAR trains the next generation of Earth system scientists, ensuring the growth of this vital field.

The Bee Grant Program, offered by the Whole Kids Foundation, supports K-12 schools and non-profits in enhancing or establishing bee programs with live bees. The Traditional Bee Grant provides up to $1,500 or equipment for new initiatives, while the Renewal Bee Grant offers $500 to previously funded projects. Eligible applicants must ensure strong support from their organization and have a knowledgeable beekeeper as a mentor. This initiative emphasizes bee education and conservation, fostering awareness among students.

Central Kentucky Community Foundation

Established in 1960 as North Central Education Foundation, Central Kentucky Community Foundation is one of more than 780 community foundations in the United States today. We serve the Lincoln Trail Region, offering our donors and partners a variety of ways to touch our community through philanthropic giving.

Rodney and Elizabeth Grusy Vocational Continuing Education Scholarship

Applicant must reside in Breckinridge, Grayson, Hardin, LaRue, Marion, Meade, Nelson, Washington, Green or Taylor County.

Applicant must a considered a non-traditional student

Central Kentucky Community Foundation

Established in 1960 as North Central Education Foundation, Central Kentucky Community Foundation is one of more than 780 community foundations in the United States today. We serve the Lincoln Trail Region, offering our donors and partners a variety of ways to touch our community through philanthropic giving.

Terry Adler Memorial Scholarship

The applicant must be a graduating senior in Hardin County.

The Health Services Research Grants, offered by the Foundation for Physical Therapy Research, focus on enhancing physical therapy services through evidence-based studies. Researchers are encouraged to explore areas such as therapy utilization, cost-effectiveness, and access barriers using rigorous methodologies. Proposals must align with the 2023 APTA Research Agenda, addressing topics that improve patient outcomes and care delivery, particularly in underserved populations. This initiative aims to elevate the role of physical therapists and optimize healthcare access.

The TKoster’s Charitable Innovated Health Care Award, established by Teresa Koster, aims to enhance students' access to quality health care. With a funding amount of $3,500, this award supports innovative practices in student health centers. It addresses critical areas such as understanding health care needs, improving service delivery, and leveraging technology. Eligible applicants include members of the American College Health Association, encouraged to demonstrate partnerships and financial support in their proposals.

About CKCF

Our Mission

Central Kentucky Community Foundation is the philanthropic focal point in the region, serving as a resource, leader and catalyst to people who wish to improve life in their community.

Available Scholarships

2026 Rylee Marie Razon Memorial Equine Scholarship

Outride's Community Impact Grants aim to enhance access to cycling, empowering individuals, particularly youth and seniors, to experience its social, emotional, and cognitive benefits. The grants support non-profits and schools in creating inclusive cycling programs, emphasizing equity and measurable goals. Although the application window is currently closed, Outride remains committed to promoting diverse cycling communities through strategic funding. For further guidelines, please refer to their FAQs.

The Disaster Resilience Program Fellowship supports low-income communities affected by disasters by mobilizing lawyers and law students to provide free civil legal aid. This initiative ensures access to essential legal services, helping families navigate recovery barriers. Attorney Fellows receive a salary while Student Fellows earn a stipend for their service. Participants engage in outreach, build community relationships, and receive comprehensive training to enhance their legal skills, contributing to the resilience of affected communities.

This grant opportunity aims to advance research on how work impacts health disparities among U.S. populations. It invites innovative proposals that explore the interplay between occupation and health outcomes, particularly in communities experiencing health and healthcare inequalities. Deadlines for applications span from February 2025 to October 2027, encouraging timely submissions for various categories including standard and AIDS-related grants.

The Communications, Circuits, and Sensing-Systems (CCSS) Program by the NSF funds innovative research in circuit hardware, signal processing, and system architectures. It aims to advance cyber-physical systems through cutting-edge technologies, including MEMS/NEMS and neurotechnologies. The program supports applications across diverse fields such as healthcare, environmental monitoring, and smart systems. Proposals are encouraged for high-speed communications, real-time sensing, and intelligent autonomous systems, fostering significant advancements in communication and sensing capabilities.

The Mike and Sharon Bell Scholarship, offered by the Central Kentucky Community Foundation, supports students from Hardin County Water District No. 2 or active members of Glendale Christian Church. Applicants should have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and plan to attend a two- or four-year academic or technical school. This scholarship aims to empower local students to pursue their educational goals and enhance their community involvement.