Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in Virginia

The Equitable Excellence Scholarship® Program, administered by Scholarship America, provides 100 annual scholarships of $5,000 to high school seniors with financial need. This program aims to support students as they pursue higher education, with scholarships renewable for up to four years, totaling $20,000 per recipient. Eligible applicants must demonstrate ambition and reside in the U.S. This initiative promotes educational access and equity, celebrating 23 years of empowering students to achieve their dreams.

The Matthew Chew Memorial Scholarship, established in memory of Matthew Chew, supports students pursuing degrees in the arts, particularly in painting, drawing, or music performance. With an award range of $500 to $1,000, the scholarship aims to assist those from East Lyme, Groton, Ledyard, Montville, New London, Norwich, Stonington, and Waterford. Since 1983, the Community Foundation has awarded significant scholarships to help students achieve their educational goals.

The Siebenthal and Block Scholarship Program, administered by Scholarship America, supports students from Peoria Manual High School pursuing higher education. This initiative aims to eliminate financial barriers and promote access to college or vocational training. By fostering partnerships and providing vital resources, the program enhances educational opportunities for underrepresented students, ensuring they can achieve their academic goals and minimize debt. Through its commitment, Scholarship America continues to impact lives significantly.

Virginia Department of Emergency Management

In July 1973, Virginia took measures to ensure that the Commonwealth and its residents would be protected from the effects of disasters, both natural and human-caused. Just 13 months after Hurricane Agnes caused record-breaking flooding, the Virginia Office of Emergency Services was created. The office was renamed the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) in 2000 (Va. Code Ann. § 44-146.18). Today, VDEM works with with local, state, tribal, and federal agencies and voluntary organizations to provide crucial resources during all hazard disasters.

Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP)

The Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) provides funding support for target hardening and other physical security enhancements and activities to nonprofit organizations that are at high risk of terrorist attack. The intent is to integrate nonprofit preparedness activities with broader state and local preparedness efforts. It is also designed to promote coordination and collaboration in emergency preparedness activities among public and private community representatives, as well as state and local government agencies.

The NGSP, via State Administrative Agencies (SAA), provides funds to nonprofit organizations that are at high risk of terrorist or other extremist attack to meet the following three objectives throughout the period of performance:

• Enhance equipment and conduct security-related activities to improve the security posture of nonprofit organizations that are at high risk of a terrorist or other extremist attack.
• Address and close capability gaps that are identified in individual nonprofit organization Vulnerability Assessments via funding spent on Planning, Equipment, and Training and Exercises that aim to enhance the protection of soft targets and crowded places.
• Strengthen relationships across non-profit organization, state, local, and territorial homeland security agencies for a whole community approach to preparedness.

Given the evolving threat landscape, it is incumbent upon DHS/FEMA to continuously evaluate the national risk profile and set priorities that help ensure appropriate allocation of scarce security dollars. In assessing the national risk profile, the following National Priority Areas (NPAs) shape current and future guidance:

• Enhancing the protection of soft targets/crowded places.
• Supporting Homeland Security Task Forces and Fusion Centers
• Enhancing Cybersecurity
• Enhancing Election Security
• Supporting Border Crisis Response and Enforcement

Likewise, there are several enduring security needs that crosscut the homeland security enterprise. The following are second-tier priorities that help recipients implement a comprehensive approach to securing communities:

• Effective planning;
• Training and awareness campaigns; and
• Exercises

Effective August 13, 2020, FEMA recipients and subrecipients may not use any FEMA funds under open or new awards to:

• Procure or obtain any equipment, system, or service that uses covered telecommunications equipment or services as a substantial or essential component of any system, or as critical technology of any system;
• Enter into, extend, or renew a contract to procure or obtain any equipment, system, or service that uses covered telecommunications equipment or services as a substantial or essential component of any system, or as critical technology of any system; or
• Enter into, extend, or renew contracts with entities that use covered telecommunications equipment or services as a substantial or essential component of any system, or as critical technology as part of any system.

Virginia Applicants

Up to $3,381,162 will be available for Virginia applicants in 2025. Of that amount, funding will be split across two applicant groups: NSGP-Urban Areas (NSGP-UA), and NSGP-State (NSGP-S).

NSGP-State (NSGP-S)

Up to $2,400,000 will be available for applicants not located in a designated Urban Area by DHS. Individual awards may be up to $200,000.

The Families of Freedom Scholarship Fund, established by Scholarship America Inc., provides need-based scholarships for postsecondary education to dependents of 9/11 victims. This initiative aims to alleviate financial barriers and supports students at various accredited institutions across the U.S. By offering financial assistance for up to four years, the fund promotes educational access and success for those affected by tragedy, ensuring that eligible recipients can pursue their academic aspirations without the burden of excessive debt.

Virginia Department of Emergency Management

In July 1973, Virginia took measures to ensure that the Commonwealth and its residents would be protected from the effects of disasters, both natural and human-caused. Just 13 months after Hurricane Agnes caused record-breaking flooding, the Virginia Office of Emergency Services was created. The office was renamed the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) in 2000 (Va. Code Ann. § 44-146.18). Today, VDEM works with with local, state, tribal, and federal agencies and voluntary organizations to provide crucial resources during all hazard disasters.

Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP)

The Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) provides funding support for target hardening and other physical security enhancements and activities to nonprofit organizations that are at high risk of terrorist attack. The intent is to integrate nonprofit preparedness activities with broader state and local preparedness efforts. It is also designed to promote coordination and collaboration in emergency preparedness activities among public and private community representatives, as well as state and local government agencies.

The NGSP, via State Administrative Agencies (SAA), provides funds to nonprofit organizations that are at high risk of terrorist or other extremist attack to meet the following three objectives throughout the period of performance:

• Enhance equipment and conduct security-related activities to improve the security posture of nonprofit organizations that are at high risk of a terrorist or other extremist attack.
• Address and close capability gaps that are identified in individual nonprofit organization Vulnerability Assessments via funding spent on Planning, Equipment, and Training and Exercises that aim to enhance the protection of soft targets and crowded places.
• Strengthen relationships across non-profit organization, state, local, and territorial homeland security agencies for a whole community approach to preparedness.

Given the evolving threat landscape, it is incumbent upon DHS/FEMA to continuously evaluate the national risk profile and set priorities that help ensure appropriate allocation of scarce security dollars. In assessing the national risk profile, the following National Priority Areas (NPAs) shape current and future guidance:

• Enhancing the protection of soft targets/crowded places.
• Supporting Homeland Security Task Forces and Fusion Centers
• Enhancing Cybersecurity
• Enhancing Election Security
• Supporting Border Crisis Response and Enforcement

Likewise, there are several enduring security needs that crosscut the homeland security enterprise. The following are second-tier priorities that help recipients implement a comprehensive approach to securing communities:

• Effective planning;
• Training and awareness campaigns; and
• Exercises

Effective August 13, 2020, FEMA recipients and subrecipients may not use any FEMA funds under open or new awards to:

• Procure or obtain any equipment, system, or service that uses covered telecommunications equipment or services as a substantial or essential component of any system, or as critical technology of any system;
• Enter into, extend, or renew a contract to procure or obtain any equipment, system, or service that uses covered telecommunications equipment or services as a substantial or essential component of any system, or as critical technology of any system; or
• Enter into, extend, or renew contracts with entities that use covered telecommunications equipment or services as a substantial or essential component of any system, or as critical technology as part of any system.

Virginia Applicants

Up to $3,381,162 will be available for Virginia applicants in 2025. Of that amount, funding will be split across two applicant groups: NSGP-Urban Areas (NSGP-UA), and NSGP-State (NSGP-S).

NSGP-Urban Areas (NSGP-UA)

Up to $981,162 will be available for applicants located in a designated Urban Area by DHS. Individual awards may be up to $200,000. In Virginia, the UASI-designated areas are the Hamptons Road Area (with an allocation of $554,191) and the Richmond Area (with an allocation of $426,971). 

The Hanover Insurance Community and AVID Scholarship Program, administered by Scholarship America, aims to support high school seniors from specific areas in Massachusetts and Michigan who plan to pursue higher education. By providing scholarships, this initiative seeks to eliminate financial barriers and promote educational success for underrepresented students. With a focus on equity and accessibility, the program encourages eligible students, particularly those in the AVID program, to further their academic aspirations.

The Dupuytren’s Disease Fund, managed by the HealthWell Foundation, aims to reduce financial barriers for underinsured patients suffering from Dupuytren's Disease. This fund provides assistance for prescription drug copays and insurance premiums related to treatment. With an average grant utilization of $1,650 over a 12-month period, the fund ensures that essential medications and therapies are affordable. HealthWell Foundation, a private non-profit, has helped over 1.1 million patients since 2004, demonstrating its commitment to healthcare access.

The Cushing's Disease or Cushing's Syndrome Fund, operated by the HealthWell Foundation, provides vital financial assistance to underinsured patients facing high medical costs associated with these conditions. The fund covers co-payments, insurance premiums, and necessary treatments, ensuring that patients receive the care they need without financial burden. With an average grant utilization of $3,000 over twelve months, this fund aims to alleviate the challenges of treatment accessibility, supporting both physical and mental health for those affected.

The John S. Russo Memorial Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports graduating high school seniors from New Britain pursuing technical college degrees, especially in manufacturing. This scholarship emphasizes financial need and qualities like community involvement and leadership. By encouraging students with innovative thinking and a passion for technical education, the foundation aims to foster a skilled workforce that contributes positively to the local community.

The Leonard C. and Jeannette W. Varkal Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports high-achieving seniors from Berlin, New Britain, and Plainville, CT. Eligible candidates must rank in the top 10% of their class or maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, pursuing degrees in Education or Business. Preference is given to those demonstrating financial need, ensuring support for dedicated students committed to enhancing their communities through education.

The Blepharitis Fund, managed by the HealthWell Foundation, aims to alleviate financial barriers for underinsured patients suffering from blepharitis, an inflammatory condition of the eyelids. This program assists with prescription drug copays and insurance premiums, covering up to $3,500 annually for treatments. With a mission to ensure no patient is deprived of necessary healthcare due to financial constraints, the HealthWell Foundation has provided over $1.2 billion in grants, supporting more than 1.1 million patients since its inception.

The Robert D. and Dorothy M. Powers Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports high school seniors from New Britain, CT, pursuing a bachelor’s degree. This scholarship prioritizes academic achievement and financial need, ensuring that deserving students can continue their education and achieve their aspirations. With a strong commitment to community development, CFGNB aims to empower students and foster a brighter future for the region.

The William P. and Janet C. McCormack Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports high school seniors from New Britain or Berlin who excel academically, ranking in the top 20% of their class. Eligible students must pursue a bachelor’s degree at an accredited institution and demonstrate commitment to community service. This scholarship also considers work experience and financial need, requiring a personal essay to highlight the applicant's achievements and aspirations.

The Donald F. and Norma K. Mougenot Scholarship, administered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from public high schools within NCCF’s 20-town service area. With an average award of $2,000, preference is given to past graduates of St. Peter/St. Francis School. This scholarship aims to assist students pursuing their academic goals, fostering community growth and educational advancement.

The Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Fund, managed by HealthWell Foundation, aims to alleviate financial barriers for underinsured patients battling ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disease. The fund provides financial assistance for prescription copays, insurance premiums, and related healthcare expenses, ensuring patients can access vital treatments. With an average grant utilization of $3,000 over twelve months, the fund exemplifies HealthWell's commitment to ensuring no patient is denied necessary healthcare due to cost. Since 2004, HealthWell has awarded over $1.2 billion in grants, supporting more than 1.1 million patients.

The Frances H. Ducci Scholarship, offered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from public high schools within NCCF's 20-town service area. With awards ranging from $500 to $2,500, this scholarship aims to assist local students in pursuing their academic goals. The foundation is dedicated to enhancing community wellbeing through thoughtful grant-making and scholarship opportunities that address local needs.

The Alagille Syndrome Vitamins and Supplements Fund, managed by the HealthWell Foundation, offers financial assistance to patients suffering from Alagille Syndrome. This fund helps cover the costs of essential vitamins and supplements needed for treatment. With a maximum award of $1,500, the program aims to reduce financial barriers for underinsured individuals, ensuring they receive the necessary support to manage their health, thereby enhancing their quality of life.

The OREF/John W. Brown Early-Stage Investigator Grant supports innovative research in musculoskeletal health, encouraging early-stage investigators to submit proposals utilizing enabling technologies. Established by the Orthopaedic Research and Education Foundation, this grant honors John W. Brown's contributions to orthopaedics. With a maximum funding of $100,000 over one or two years, the grant aims to enhance clinical practice and improve patient outcomes through groundbreaking research.

Mission & Vision

Mission:

The Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico serves as a community resource, connects donors to needs, and supports charitable organizations in their work.

Vision:

A community connected to the resources it needs to thrive.

Your Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico (CFSNM) serves as a vehicle for people of all means to make a lasting impact on quality of life in our region now and in the future. Our organization is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, corporations, and institutions connected by the desire to improve Southern New Mexico. We manage over 300 endowments, including 48 non-profit organizational endowments in Southern New Mexico, and are home to over 40 scholarships and nine annual grant cycles. As a center for charitable giving we support the arts, feed the hungry, expand literacy, improve health, and support countless other meaningful causes in the twelve counties including: Catron, Chaves, Doña Ana, Eddy, Grant, Hidalgo, Lea, Lincoln, Luna, Otero, Sierra & Socorro. 

Apply for a Scholarship

Your CFSNM offers scholarships that support students from all walks and stages of life in pursuing various avenues of their educational and professional journeys. 

With a wide range of categories, your CFSNM offers scholarships for everyone including, but not limited to:

• BiPOC
• Students with disabilities
• LGBTQIA+
• Healthcare
• Volunteerism
• CTE, Trade, Vocational
• In-state and out-of-state
• All degree paths for undergraduate to post-grad
• Students returning to school

Good Samaritan Scholarship

To support students pursuing a degree in nursing, social work or certified nursing

The Jack and Ruth Calder Scholarship, offered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from specific local high schools who reside in particular towns. With an average award of $300, preference is given to students who are actively involved in their communities through volunteering or have received notable recognition. This scholarship is a valuable opportunity for those dedicated to making a difference.

The Graton Fellowship, offered by the Sundance Institute, supports Indigenous artists from California-based tribes by providing a $25,000 grant and a year of comprehensive support. This includes access to mentorship, strategic creative services, and participation in the Sundance Film Festival. The initiative aims to empower artists to share their unique stories through film, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of California Indian tribes and fostering a greater understanding of their perspectives.

The Barbara Hodgdon Award, presented by the Shakespeare Association of America (SAA), honors exceptional scholarship in the field of Shakespeare and Performance. Established in memory of Barbara Hodgdon, this award encourages innovative research across various media and time periods related to Shakespeare's work. Eligible submissions must be authored by SAA members and published two years prior to the award presentation. This recognition promotes new discussions and insights within the realm of Shakespearean performance studies.

The Austrian-Hungarian Singing – Sick Benefit Society Donau, Inc. Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports graduating high school seniors pursuing higher education, particularly in fields related to Austrian or German culture. Preference is given to students of Austrian, German, or Swiss-German descent or members of the Austrian-Hungarian Club. This initiative not only aids academic pursuits but also promotes cultural heritage preservation.

The Christopher Maerz Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports graduating seniors or past graduates from New Britain or Berlin high schools pursuing a bachelor's degree in nursing or a related medical field. Applicants must maintain a C+ average and demonstrate financial need, with a preference for first-generation college students committed to healthcare. This initiative aims to foster skilled, compassionate care in the community.

The Johanna Koester Heine Endowment Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico, aims to support students pursuing higher education across various fields, including vocational training. It is open to diverse applicants including BiPOC, LGBTQIA+, and those with disabilities. The scholarship reflects the foundation's mission to enhance the quality of life in Southern New Mexico by providing educational opportunities and fostering community development.

The Eleanor and Nathan Berry Scholarship, offered by The Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports high school seniors from local towns who aim to pursue a full-time bachelor's degree at accredited institutions. Ideal candidates exhibit strong academic records and personal growth through meaningful activities. Preference is given to those aspiring to careers in medicine or finance, with a personal essay required for application. This initiative highlights the Foundation's commitment to education and community development.