Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits in Vermont

The FY26 Breast Cancer Research Program's Clinical Research Extension Award aims to enhance breast cancer clinical studies by extending data collection and follow-up. This funding mechanism emphasizes the importance of patient participation and addresses challenges from early trial terminations. Notably, applications must include two breast cancer consumer advocates and can feature either a single Principal Investigator or a duo. This initiative seeks to improve outcomes through comprehensive data analysis and patient engagement.

The FY26 Breast Cancer Research Program's Breakthrough Award supports transformative research aimed at significant advancements in breast cancer treatment. This award offers various funding levels, including Population Science Studies, allowing for innovative approaches that can lead to clinical applications. Each application must align with overarching BCRP challenges, ensuring a focus on impactful research. The program acknowledges both individual and collaborative Principal Investigators, emphasizing the importance of timely submissions to avoid administrative issues.

The Senator Paul D. Wellstone Muscular Dystrophy Specialized Research Centers (MDSRC) program is designed to enhance research on muscular dystrophy through a collaborative, center-based approach. By fostering interdisciplinary projects and providing essential training for emerging scientists, the MDSRCs aim to drive innovation in both basic and clinical research. Engaging patient and advocacy communities is a key component, ensuring research is patient-centered and informed by real-world needs. This initiative is supported by various legislative authorities.

The National Institutes of Health is funding a groundbreaking project to enhance our understanding of Type 1 diabetes (T1D) through multimodal AI. This initiative aims to integrate diverse datasets to explore the interactions of biological processes in T1D development. By leveraging advanced AI models, the research will uncover critical insights, identify biomarkers, and pave the way for personalized medicine approaches, ultimately improving prevention and treatment strategies for this complex disease.

About

The Community Foundation of Central Georgia was founded in 1993 by a group of citizens interested in encouraging philanthropy and strengthening communities.

The Foundation provides donors a simple, powerful, and highly personal approach to giving. Through their funds, CFCG donors support the causes and organizations that they care about, which enhances the quality of life for the people of Central Georgia.

Our vision is a Central Georgia where philanthropy thrives, communities are strong, and citizens work toward common goals.

Al Lucas Memorial Scholarship Fund

Albert James “Big Luke” Lucas was born September 1, 1978, to David E. and Elaine H. Lucas. He passed away on April 10, 2005, from a spinal cord injury he suffered during a Los Angeles Avengers arena football game. He was married to De’Shonda, and had a daughter, Mariah.

Al was a native of Macon, Georgia, graduating from Northeast High School in 1996. Following graduation, he attended Troy State University on a full athletic scholarship, and shined as a defensive lineman for the Trojans. Throughout college Al studied hard and cherished his time on the field and in 2000 was awarded the distinguished Buck Buchanan Award as the top defensive player in Division 1-AA. He was also an outstanding member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. He graduated in 2000 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice. Al went on to join the National Football League, signing as a free agent with the Pittsburgh Steelers and later playing for the Carolina Panthers. Later he joined the Arena Football League, playing for the Tampa Bay Storm, and finally the Los Angeles Avengers.

Al was a strong athlete with a heart of gold who believed in giving back to the community that supported him over the years. He especially loved working with children and served as a substitute teacher and coach at Northeast High School during the off-season. He was a member of Steward Chapel A.M.E. Church where he first learned the responsibility and power of tithing.

Al Lucas exemplified the characteristics of a scholar-athlete. He loved athletics, but knew his studies came first. He served his community and the Lord. He expected the best of himself and others. He excelled on the football field and in life. Recipients of the Al Lucas Memorial Scholarship will reflect Al’s ideals and carry on his legacy of excellence.

Purpose

• To honor the memory of Al Lucas by providing college scholarships to scholar athletes in Al’s hometown of Macon, Georgia.

Awards

• Amount of Award: $1,000, non-renewable.
• Number of Awards: 7 per year. Two awards will be given to scholar-athletes graduating from Northeast High School, Al’s alma mater. One winner shall be female and one male. The other five awards will be given to student-athletes from each of the other five Bibb County public high schools. One will be awarded at each school.

The Clifton-Whitehead Scholarship Fund, established by Edward S. Whitehead, Jr. in honor of his relatives, supports deserving students in Middle Georgia, particularly in Bibb County. This fund aims to assist students of good character facing financial challenges in obtaining a college education. Annually, approximately 12 awards of around $1,000 are granted. Eligible recipients must maintain a minimum GPA and can renew the scholarship for up to four years, provided they meet the established criteria.

The Christine Riggins Shepherd Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, aims to support students from Lamar, Pike, Monroe, Upson, or Spalding counties attending Georgia Southern University. With at least one award given annually, the scholarship amount varies. Recipients can renew their scholarships for up to four years if they maintain eligibility. Preference is given to applicants from Lamar County, promoting educational opportunities for local students.

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.

The Alvin V. Palmer Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, honors the legacy of Alvin V. Palmer, a dedicated veteran and entrepreneur. This fund provides financial support for college and technical school scholarships to current and former residents of Greene County, Georgia. With a commitment to enhancing educational opportunities, this scholarship aims to empower deserving students from Mr. Palmer's hometown to achieve their academic goals.

The Traumatic Brain Injury Model Systems Centers aim to enhance TBI rehabilitation through evidence-based research. These centers focus on generating knowledge to improve health, community participation, and employment outcomes for TBI individuals. Funded by the US HHS Administration for Community Living, the grants support site-specific and collaborative research, contributing to a longitudinal database. Each center can receive varying funding amounts, depending on eligible database participants, with a project timeline of 60 months comprising five 12-month budget periods.

The Petrone Scholarship, offered by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports non-traditional students pursuing nursing degrees. It aims to assist those advancing from a Nurse's Aide to an LPN or RN, or from LPN to RN, especially those with experience in Hospice Care. This scholarship provides essential financial aid to help eligible students achieve their educational goals in the nursing field, fostering a commitment to quality patient care.

The Greater Tindall Neighborhood Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, aims to support residents of Tindall Heights pursuing post-secondary education. It offers $2,000 per recipient, renewable for up to four years. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA, and enroll full-time at an accredited institution. The scholarship fosters educational growth and community development, ensuring that residents have the necessary resources to succeed in their academic endeavors.

The Gladys Lasky Endowment Fund Ballet Scholarship, established in 2000 by the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, aims to support ballet students in Georgia by providing funding for classical ballet instruction or summer intensives. Each year, one scholarship is awarded to a deserving student, prioritizing those with financial need and ties to Central Georgia. Recipients are selected based on recommendations, potential for success, and years of formal dance training.

The Field Initiated Projects Program aims to foster new research and develop solutions that enhance the inclusion and independence of individuals with disabilities. This initiative focuses on generating scientific knowledge and understanding critical issues faced by these populations, particularly those with significant support needs. With a total of 16 grants available over a 36-month period, this program encourages innovative approaches that support employment, living arrangements, and caregiver involvement.

The Dr. Curtis Jones Leadership Award Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, honors the legacy of Dr. Curtis Jones, a distinguished educator and former Superintendent. This scholarship aims to support a graduating senior from Bibb County Public Schools who exemplifies leadership, scholarship, and citizenship. Awarded annually at $1,875, it is renewable for up to four years, encouraging students to achieve their academic goals while honoring Dr. Jones's commitment to education and community.

The Retina Society, Inc.

The Retina Society was founded in 1968 exclusively for educational and scientific purposes concerning the diagnosis, care and treatment of diseases and injuries to the retina. The Retina Society began as an outgrowth of alumni meetings of Retina Associates, a retina practice founded in Boston in 1951 by Charles L. Schepens. Dr. Schepens is credited with establishing retina surgery as a sub-specialty.  

Our mission is to reduce worldwide visual disability and blindness by promoting the education and professional interaction of vitreoretinal specialists, providing optimal care for patients with vitreoretinal diseases, and encouraging, through clinical and basic research, the discovery and development of new means to further patient care.

Retina Society Underrepresented in Medicine (RESOURCE) Mentoring Program

The Retina Society Underrepresented in Medicine (RESOURCE) Mentoring Program was created to engage and interest ophthalmology residents from underrepresented populations* in research and in pursuing careers in the retina subspecialty through dedicated mentoring exposure. The program will pair ophthalmology residents from underrepresented backgrounds with Retina Society mentors, with the goal of providing the residents with research and career mentorship.

*The American Association of Medical Colleges definition of underrepresented in medicine is: "Underrepresented in medicine means those racial and ethnic populations that are underrepresented in the medical profession relative to their numbers in the general population." We define the following groups as underrepresented: Black (African American or African), Latino/Hispanic, American Indian, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander. We will also be considering applicants from LGBTQIA+ and socioeconomically underprivileged backgrounds.

Mentors will work with their designated mentees on research projects that will be presented at the Retina Society Annual Meeting in 2027 and submitted for publication consideration. Mentors and mentees will be acknowledged at the Retina Society Annual Meeting.

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI

At the Community Foundation for Mason County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues. As a leader in community philanthropy, building a vibrant community with great opportunities for all, we are focused on advancing education, increasing recreation opportunities, and community and economic development.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

George Dila Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Wayne and Jeanie Mortenson, who established the George Dila Memorial Scholarship Fund of the Community Foundation for Mason County to honor the memory of their dear friend, George Dila.

This scholarship is for graduating senior(s) of Ludington High School pursuing a degree or certification at any two or four-year accredited college, university, or vocational/technical school.

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI

At the Community Foundation for Mason County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues. As a leader in community philanthropy, building a vibrant community with great opportunities for all, we are focused on advancing education, increasing recreation opportunities, and community and economic development.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Joe Lancour Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the family of Joe Lancour, who established the Joe Lancour Memorial Scholarship Fund of the Community Foundation for Mason County.

Joe Lancour served our country in Afghanistan where he lost his life. Joe was active in sports and graduated in 2004 from Ludington High School. He was artistic in many ways and loved to cook. His mother Starla Owens championed this scholarship fund to honor his memory.

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.

The Sarah Creech Performing Arts Scholarship, established in 2013 by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, honors the memory of Sarah Creech. This scholarship aims to support high school seniors and college students from Beaufort County pursuing post-secondary education in the performing arts. With a mission to strengthen community ties and provide educational opportunities, the foundation plays a vital role in enhancing the lives of Lowcountry residents through philanthropic leadership.

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.

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI

At the Community Foundation for Mason County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues. As a leader in community philanthropy, building a vibrant community with great opportunities for all, we are focused on advancing education, increasing recreation opportunities, and community and economic development.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Ludington Education Association Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the Ludington Area School District, which established the Ludington Education Association Scholarship Fund of the Community Foundation for Mason County. This fund provides scholarships to graduating seniors of Ludington High School.

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI

At the Community Foundation for Mason County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues. As a leader in community philanthropy, building a vibrant community with great opportunities for all, we are focused on advancing education, increasing recreation opportunities, and community and economic development.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Ludington High School Class of '59 Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the Ludington High School Class of '59. This scholarship is for Ludington High School graduating seniors with a proven good work ethic.

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI 

At the Community Foundation for Mason County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues. As a leader in community philanthropy, building a vibrant community with great opportunities for all, we are focused on advancing education, increasing recreation opportunities, and community and economic development.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Margaret M. Lederle Ludington Area School District Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Mr. Arthur Lederle and the Ludington Area School District, who established the Margaret M. Lederle Ludington Area School District Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Mason County.

This scholarship is presented to a graduating senior of Ludington High School. Recipients are eligible to receive unlimited renewals, based on renewal standards, as long as the student pursues his or her chosen course of study. It is Mr. Lederle's desire that recipients of this scholarship consider giving back to the Fund if and when they find themselves in a position to do so.

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI

At the Community Foundation for Mason County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues. As a leader in community philanthropy, building a vibrant community with great opportunities for all, we are focused on advancing education, increasing recreation opportunities, and community and economic development.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Merry E. Petersen Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Frank Petersen, who established the Merry E. Petersen Memorial Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Mason County.

The Merry E. Petersen Memorial Scholarship was founded on the belief that persons wishing to serve others in the benevolent field of nursing should be given the chance to achieve it. Merry graduated with honors from St. Francis School of Nursing in Illinois. During her lifetime, she was devoted to the nurturing care of others, and her family wanted to encourage others to pursue this important profession.

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI

At the Community Foundation for Mason County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues. As a leader in community philanthropy, building a vibrant community with great opportunities for all, we are focused on advancing education, increasing recreation opportunities, and community and economic development.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Rick Chapman Legacy League Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the Rick Chapman Legacy League, created in memory of Rick, a beloved local entrepreneur who owned and operated Chuck Wagon Pizza in Ludington, Michigan, for many years.

Inspired by Rick's own path of starting his business at a young age, the scholarship supports students who are pursuing business education and entrepreneurship with the hope that recipients will eventually live and work in Mason County. The scholarship fund is administered by the Rick Chapman Legacy League Board, composed of Rick's high school friends who would visit Rick at Chuck Wagon when in town, longtime customers and neighbors from the community, and an overall eclectic mix of people from different walks of life that Rick welcomed. The board and several other Rick Chapman friends and fans host an annual golf outing near Rick's birthday in August to raise money for scholarships. Entry fees, sponsorships, and a silent auction contribute to the scholarship fund. The Rick Chapman Legacy League Scholarship honors Rick’s memory and commitment to fostering entrepreneurship. By investing in local students, the Legacy League hopes to inspire students to follow in Rick's footsteps, contributing to the vibrancy of the Mason County community.

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI

At the Community Foundation for Mason County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues. As a leader in community philanthropy, building a vibrant community with great opportunities for all, we are focused on advancing education, increasing recreation opportunities, and community and economic development.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Rick & Mary Ann Randall Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Rick and Mary Ann Randall, who established the Rick and Mary Ann Randall Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Mason County.

As quoted by Rick and Mary Ann Randall..."We value education and the opportunities it provides. We believe that all students who wish to pursue higher education should be able to do so, regardless of their academic standing or financial resources. Therefore, we offer scholarships to deserving students who demonstrate a strong desire to continue their education beyond high school."