Best Grants for Nonprofits Serving Disabled in Vermont

The McInnes Charitable Trust, founded by Sally and John McInnes, aims to support organizations in Colorado focused on animal welfare, children's health, education, and empowerment. The Trust prioritizes funding for exempt organizations under Section 501(c)(3) with a proven track record. It typically does not fund capital improvements or multi-year commitments. By fostering a spirit of generosity, the Trust honors the McInnes family's legacy and commitment to various charitable causes.

The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.

The Brinker International Charitable Giving Program focuses on giving back to communities through support for kids, hunger, and education. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501c(3) non-profits and submit requests at least six weeks prior to events. The program does not support individuals, political or religious organizations, or explicit discrimination policies. Funding is provided through monetary donations or in-kind contributions like dining certificates.

The Karen Colina Wilson Foundation Grant supports programs for children, youth, and women, enhancing their health and well-being through education, art, literature, and music. Established in 2006, the foundation aims to make a positive difference in their lives, particularly in Southern and Western Wayne County, Michigan. Grants typically range from $500 to $10,000, often as matching funds, fostering broader fundraising efforts by local nonprofit organizations.

The Jordan Fund, established by John & Kelly Olerud in 2003, is dedicated to supporting children with special needs and their families. This grant-making organization assists children with substantial disabilities up to age twenty-one, covering costs for respite, therapy, and essential equipment not provided by insurance. By funding 501(c)(3) organizations, the Jordan Fund aims to enhance the quality of life for these children and their families.

The US Dept. of Health & Human Services is funding innovative projects to enhance adoption outcomes for children with complex needs. This initiative aims to develop collaborative strategies that recruit, train, and support specialized adoptive families. It focuses on ensuring stability and permanency for children facing behavioral, medical, or emotional challenges. Through rigorous evaluation and community partnerships, the program seeks effective solutions for these vulnerable youth, including those in foster care.

The Starseed Foundation Grant offers support to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on enhancing the arts, environmental protection, literacy, and social services. Grants are available to organizations throughout the United States, with a specific emphasis on programs based in Oregon. Interested parties must first submit a Letter of Inquiry to be considered for funding. This initiative aims to improve the quality of life for underserved communities through cultural and educational enrichment.

The NIH's TALK initiative aims to enhance clinical practices for late talking children by funding research to identify early signs of language delays. This NOFO focuses on developing evidence-based strategies for screening and supporting children and their families. It targets children over 18 months who are not meeting language milestones, particularly those at higher risk due to various factors. Collaborative research efforts are encouraged to ensure effective identification and intervention.

The Neil and Louise Tillotson Fund - Large Grants Program offers funding to strengthen communities in Coös County, NH, and bordering areas. With a focus on economic development, community resiliency, and education, the fund supports projects that enhance cultural assets, promote sustainable resource use, and address basic needs. Grants range from $20,000 to $300,000, requiring a pre-application consultation. The foundation aims to empower underserved populations and foster connections within the community.

Seattle Foundation is an agent of change, igniting powerful, rewarding philanthropy to make Greater Seattle a stronger, more vibrant community for all.

At Seattle Foundation, we believe that community is more than a place. It’s the shared understanding that our joy and well-being are tied to one another. Every day we work with nonprofits, philanthropists, and partners like you to strengthen community by igniting powerful philanthropy and advancing long-term solutions. Because it takes all of us to create a joyful region where every person can thrive.

Microsoft Disability Scholarship

This scholarship supports high school seniors living with a disability defined by WHO (World Health Organization — an impairment in a person’s body structure or function, or mental functioning (visual, hearing, mobility, cognitive, speech, or other disability). Eligible applicants must plan to study Engineering, Computer Sciences, Computer Information Systems, Law, Business (including Paralegal, Pre-Law, Finance, Business Administration, or Marketing) at an accredited two- or four-year college, university, or vocational-technical school. This scholarship is a $5,000 award with up to eight (8) scholarships granted.

About Us

The American Academy for Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine (AACPDM) is an Academy of over 1,100 health professionals dedicated to advancing the health and well-being of all individuals with cerebral palsy and other childhood-onset disabilities. AACPDM is like no other professional society! The “teamwork” mindset of our members solidifies a worldwide network that provides the most effective outcomes for patients. We are pediatricians, neurologists, surgeons, rehabilitators, therapists, nurses, special educators, engineers, and scientists.

AACPDM Mentored Research Grant 

A key part of the AACPDM mission is to foster innovative research as well as its dissemination and implementation. One way the Academy promotes research is through the annual Research Grant Program.

AACPDM Research Grants provide support to bring together investigators from diverse geographical locations to obtain pilot data, statistical consultation and develop a multi-center research study plan.

AACPDM is excited to accept research grant applications that align with the Academy's mission to support a collaborative multidisciplinary community that provides robust scientific education, fosters innovative research, and advocates for equitable access to evidence-based care.

Research grant funding supports high-quality clinical research projects/programs. The award may be used to fund planning for a project or to complete a small research project.

The Couch Family Foundation supports nonprofits in the Upper Valley and Martha's Vineyard, focusing on enhancing child and family well-being through equitable opportunities. The foundation prioritizes organizations that demonstrate strong leadership, community impact, and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Grants are available for various needs, including general operating, project funding, and capital support, with an emphasis on collaborative community change.

The Snapdragon Book Foundation Grant aims to enhance school libraries for disadvantaged children by providing essential funding. Established in 2008, it supports public, private, and experimental schools in the U.S., including territories. The foundation emphasizes access to quality reading materials, aiming to address inequities caused by structural racism. Eligible libraries can apply for funding to acquire books, reference materials, and subscriptions, ensuring that all students have access to enriching literary resources.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

The Robert J. Keown Trust, established in 1934, provides financial assistance to needy Christians through grants to charitable organizations. Managed by Wells Fargo Bank N.A., the trust focuses on supporting organizations that benefit residents of Los Angeles County. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt. Preference is given to requests aiding needy Christians and elderly women. The trust awards an average of four grants per year, fostering community support and outreach.

Adaptive Sports in Schools Mobility Grants

Request for Proposals

More than 7 million students in the U.S. receive special education services for disabilities in public schools. A 2010 study by the U.S. General Accountability Office found that students with disabilities participated in athletics at significantly lower rates than their peers. Currently, 2,490 k-12 public schools in the U.S. are members of the American Association of Adaptive Sports Programs schools and have adaptive sports programs for students.

The Bridgestone Americas Trust Fund seeks public schools pursuing funding to start adaptive sports programs or increase access to adaptive sports and equipment for children and youth. Bridgestone is offering eight $25,000 “mobility” grants to organizations that can establish new athletic programming for students with disabilities. Organizations must articulate a clear plan to provide access to new athletic programs for students with disabilities in one or more public schools for students grades K-12.

The OVW Fiscal Year 2026 Training and Services to End Violence and Abuse Against Individuals with Disabilities and Deaf People Program aims to empower states, local and Tribal governments, and nonprofit organizations to provide crucial training and resources. This initiative focuses on addressing domestic violence, stalking, sexual assault, and caregiver abuse against individuals with disabilities and Deaf individuals, enhancing direct services and support for these vulnerable populations.

The Family-to-Family Health Information Centers (F2F HIC) program, funded by the US HHS: Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), aims to empower families of children and youth with special health care needs (CYSHCN). By providing crucial information, education, and peer support, the program helps families navigate complex health systems to access necessary services, ultimately enhancing the health and well-being of CYSHCN and their families.

Multiple Sclerosis Foundation

The Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, known in the MS community as MS Focus, is a nonprofit organization focused on providing free services that address the critical needs of people with MS and their families, helping them maintain the best quality of life. 

The symptoms of MS are unpredictable and may increase in severity over time. This presents physical, emotional, and financial challenges families must face. MS Focus is here to provide the support, education, and assistance needed to adapt to these challenging circumstances. Our primary focus is on providing individuals with MS the help they need to maintain their health and well-being, to continue to be productive and independent, and to keep a roof over their heads and a safe environment in their home. We do so with empathy, resourcefulness, and conscientious care.

Whom does MS Focus serve?

Our resources assist people who have MS, their families and caregivers, regional support groups, and healthcare professionals. Our programs and grants are available in the 50 U.S. states and Puerto Rico. Online resources, such as our educational materials or audio programs, are available throughout the world.

Assistive Technology Program

The Assistive Technology (AT) Program may help locate, partially fund, or provide full funding for one of a wide range of devices. These allow those with MS to function more independently in their daily lives, as well as more easily participate in recreational, educational, and vocational activities. These include:

• Aids for daily living
• Communication devices
• Computer aids
• Environmental control systems
• Home and vehicle modifications
• Orthotics
• Seating, positioning, and mobility devices
• Aids for vision and hearing
• Cooling aids

Who We Are

Buiding a stronger, More Vibrant Community

For over 70 years, the Scranton Area Community Foundation has served Northeastern Pennsylvania as a steward of charitable resources, a grantmaker, and a catalyst for positive change. Guided by our core values of collaboration, trust, integrity, innovation, and inclusivity, we work to ensure that our communities thrive with opportunities for all.

This scholarship is awarded to a student matriculating at a college, university, or business in the year of the scholarship.

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.

The ASF Family Fund Grant, offered by the Angelman Syndrome Foundation, provides crucial financial assistance to families of individuals with Angelman syndrome. This rare neuro-genetic disorder affects approximately 500,000 people globally. The fund aims to enhance the quality of life for affected individuals, allowing caregivers to apply for up to $5,000 to cover essential needs. Limitations include restrictions on certain expenses and prior grant awards. This initiative aims to support families through education and necessary resources.

The Tommy Wilson Memorial Grant, established by Dr. George T. Wilson and his wife Irene, honors their son Tommy, who had cerebral palsy. This grant supports recreational programs for individuals with disabilities and aims to positively impact their lives. Applicants must be nonprofit organizations with a successful history of programming for individuals with disabilities. The grant prioritizes programs serving economically disadvantaged individuals and may only fund applicants once every five years.

The ABC Law Centers: Disability Advocacy Scholarship, offered by ABC Law Centers, provides a $1,000 scholarship annually to students pursuing law or public policy careers focused on disability advocacy. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a U.S. higher education institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0. This initiative aligns with the firm's mission to support families affected by birth injuries, ensuring that future advocates are equipped to address the legal needs of individuals with disabilities.

The Lawson Charitable Foundation offers Amplify Grants to support nonprofits in New England and beyond, focusing on large-scale initiatives and fundraising efforts. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $2,000, these funds are intended to inspire additional donations and enhance organizational capacity. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits, aligning with the foundation's mission and demonstrating sustainability beyond the grant period. Priority is given to projects serving New England.

The FS Foundation Grant: Building for Better Belonging supports 501(c)(3) nonprofits with budgets under $5 million, aiming to enhance the lives of individuals with profound functional limitations. This funding opportunity encourages innovative projects that foster community engagement through access to adaptive resources, artistic creations, career training, and health initiatives. Grants of $50,000 to $100,000 are available to cover up to half of total project costs, ensuring collaboration with other funding sources to maximize impact.

The Julian U. Stein Lifetime Achievement Award honors a SHAPE America professional who epitomizes Dr. Stein's exemplary leadership in education, mentorship, and advocacy for individuals with disabilities. With over 45 years of dedication to the field, Julian Stein has made significant contributions through writing, public speaking, and community service. This award recognizes those who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to improving lives through physical activity and educational programming for individuals with disabilities.