Best Community Services Grants

The AmeriCorps Oregon Planning Grants offer funding to assist organizations in developing new AmeriCorps programs that tackle community challenges. These cost-reimbursement grants provide essential resources for planning and capacity building. Successful applicants receive training and technical assistance from OregonServes, enhancing their ability to implement compliant programs. By completing the planning grant, organizations will be better positioned to apply for fully-funded AmeriCorps grants in the future. Applications are accepted year-round with a final deadline of December 29.

Purpose of AmeriCorps State and National Funding

AmeriCorps improves lives, strengthens communities, and fosters civic engagement through service and volunteering. AmeriCorps brings people together to tackle some of the country’s most pressing challenges through national service and volunteerism. AmeriCorps members serve with organizations dedicated to the improvement of communities and those serving.

AmeriCorps grants are awarded to eligible organizations that engage AmeriCorps members in evidence-based or evidence-informed interventions to strengthen communities. An AmeriCorps member is a person who does community service through AmeriCorps.

2025-2026 AmeriCorps State Competitive Funding

Competitive State grants help place members in service in Oregon and will be part of the AmeriCorps Oregon portfolio. Oregon considers applications for submission to AmeriCorps as part of a national competition.

Increase your organization's impact and reach in the community with an AmeriCorps program.

AmeriCorps provides program grant funding to eligible organizations to address their community's most pressing needs. Competitive grant applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements: 

• Be a nonprofit, government agency, school, or community and/or faith-based organization 
• Request AmeriCorps members to serve only in Oregon 
• Be able to support the equivalent of 5 full-time members in the first year of operation, with a plan to increase it to 10 full-time members by the fourth year. 

Purpose of AmeriCorps State and National Funding

AmeriCorps improves lives, strengthens communities, and fosters civic engagement through service and volunteering. AmeriCorps brings people together to tackle some of the country’s most pressing challenges through national service and volunteerism. AmeriCorps members serve with organizations dedicated to the improvement of communities and those serving.

AmeriCorps grants are awarded to eligible organizations that engage AmeriCorps members in evidence-based or evidence-informed interventions to strengthen communities. An AmeriCorps member is a person who does community service through AmeriCorps.

2025-2026 AmeriCorps Formula Grant Opportunity

As the AmeriCorps State Service Commission in Oregon, OregonServes (OSC) administers state AmeriCorps Program Grants. The AmeriCorps Formula Funding Grant Opportunity is funded through OSC’s AmeriCorps State Formula Funding Allocation and provides grant funding for two types of AmeriCorps program models: (i) Formula Cost-Reimbursement Grants and (ii) Formula Fixed Amount Grants. These grants are awarded to organizations that propose to place AmeriCorps members in service solely within Oregon.

• New AmeriCorps State Formula Grant Applications
  • New Applicants may apply for a new three-year award under this RFA (Cost Reimbursement only, new programs are not eligible for Fixed Amount Grants).
• Continuation AmeriCorps State Formula Grant Applications
  • Organizations that have current AmeriCorps awards that do not end in the 2025-26 program year must submit a continuation Application to be eligible to receive funding for the following year.
• Recompeting AmeriCorps State Formula Grant Applications
  • Current OSC-funded programs with a three-year funding cycle that ends in the 2025-26 program year are considered to be in “recompete” status. These Applicants may apply for a new three-year award under this RFA. 

Women Investing in Nebraska (WIN) provides grants to innovative projects that address urgent needs in Nebraska. Since 2011, WIN has awarded over $1.9 million to various initiatives through a member-driven process. Each fall, two grants are given, one to a University of Nebraska project and another to a nonprofit. Eligible applicants include Nebraska nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status and university departments, focusing on bold solutions to pressing issues.

Zia Credit Union is dedicated to supporting community initiatives through donations, sponsorships, and event participation. They prioritize charitable causes that benefit non-profit organizations, particularly in the Los Alamos, Rio Arriba, Santa Fe, and Taos counties. Their commitment to good citizenship aligns with the credit union philosophy of 'People Helping People.' Eligible organizations can apply for funding, but they must adhere to specific guidelines to ensure community benefit.

Zions Bank Grant supports nonprofit organizations that provide essential services within the communities it serves. Focus areas for funding include affordable housing, arts and culture, community service, inclusive communities, economic development, education, and health and human services. Nonprofits applying must be 501(c)(3) organizations and operate within Zions Bank's market area. Notably, the bank does not fund individuals, for-profit entities, or programs outside its service areas.

The Benton County Affiliate Matching Grantmaking Program, managed by the Benton County Community Foundation, aims to enhance the community's quality of life through strategic grantmaking. This program allows for a matching of 50% of funds raised by local agencies, up to $2,500, with a total of $12,500 available in matching funds. Eligible organizations include 501c3 nonprofits, municipalities, schools, and churches serving Benton County residents, with a focus on community needs.

The DCCF: Build the Future Grant supports construction and expansion projects for local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and public sector entities in DeKalb County, IL. Grants of up to $100,000 are available, paid in multi-year installments, to enhance infrastructure and community impact. This program replaces the large request section of the Community Needs Grant program, streamlining requests for eligible organizations.

The Ackerman Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations in Columbia County, NY, aiming to enhance the quality of life for people and animals. Grants of up to $2,500 are awarded based on merit, alignment with mission, and community impact. Applicants must be tax-exempt under 501(c)3 or utilize a Fiscal Agent. The foundation emphasizes transparency and competition in its granting process, ensuring that those who serve their communities effectively receive assistance.

The Iddings Foundation Grant, administered by the Iddings Benevolent Trust, focuses on supporting 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in Montgomery County, Ohio. With a history of over $22 million in grants, the foundation prioritizes youth development and impactful community projects. Eligible projects can receive funding for major, capital, medium, and small initiatives. Notably, the foundation does not consider grants for projects outside of Montgomery County. Organizations interested must consult with the Administrator before applying.

The NIA — Neighbors in Action program, initiated in 2025, aims to empower community-driven projects in Rochester. With grants ranging from $250 to $10,000, it invites neighborhood associations, block clubs, and community organizations to apply. Established to revitalize local neighborhoods, NIA promotes resident engagement and action. Since its inception, it has funded numerous initiatives to enhance community connections and foster collaboration among residents, striving for a more connected and vibrant Rochester.

The Youth Leadership Program promotes civic engagement and cultural exchange among young people from the U.S. and abroad. Over 3-4 weeks, participants engage in workshops, community service, and live with American families. This immersive experience allows youth to develop leadership skills while fostering mutual understanding and respect. Upon returning home, students implement community projects based on their learning, benefiting their local societies and enhancing global connections.

The City of Richland's Community Development Block Grant program provides essential funding to support affordable housing and community development initiatives for low- and moderate-income residents. With an anticipated annual grant of $295,000 over five years (2025-2029), this program focuses on public services, construction of public facilities, and rehabilitation of structures. The funding strategy is outlined in a Consolidated Plan developed through community consultation, ensuring that local needs are met effectively.

The Our Legacy Fund Grants, offered by the McKean County Community Foundation, aim to empower nonprofit organizations in McKean County through strategic financial support. With a maximum award of $10,000, these grants seek to foster social change, promote equity, and address unmet community needs. Eligible applicants include schools, municipalities, and 501c3 organizations serving the community. This initiative reflects MCCF's commitment to building a sustainable foundation for future generations.

The GCCF Community Impact Grants provide essential capacity building and operational support to nonprofit organizations in Greenwood County. These grants, ranging from $10,000 to $25,000, aim to enhance organizational stability, strengthen operations, and facilitate strategic growth. Eligible applicants must have a 501(c)(3) status and directly benefit residents. The Foundation encourages proposals demonstrating collaboration and unique community value, ensuring impactful use of funds within the annual grant cycles.

The Klamath River Fund: Community Impact Grant, initiated by the Humboldt Area Foundation and Wild Rivers Community Foundation, aims to enhance community-led climate resilience and restorative justice in the Klamath River Basin. This grant supports initiatives that prioritize racial equity, youth development, and environmental health. With funding requests starting at $10,000 and an average grant size of $50,000, it encourages partnerships and innovative projects that foster sustainable growth and well-being for local communities.

The Trail Blazers Foundation Fund – PLAY Grant aims to enhance the lives of underserved youth in Oregon and SW Washington by promoting physical activity. With grants of up to $50,000 over two years, eligible organizations can implement programs that encourage active lifestyles among children and their families. This initiative reflects the Foundation's commitment to community engagement and health, ensuring that all youth have opportunities to thrive through active play.

The Trail Blazers Foundation Fund – LEARN Grant focuses on supporting youth from historically underserved communities in Oregon and southwest Washington. The grant offers up to $25,000 annually for organizations that help youth graduate high school and meet academic benchmarks. After the first year, selected organizations may receive an additional $25,000, totaling $50,000 over two years. This initiative aims to create positive impacts in the lives of young individuals where they live, learn, and play.

The Thesis Foundation Fund supports 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in the Portland metro area, including Multnomah, Washington, Clackamas, and Clark counties. Its mission is to promote racial equity and serve underserved communities through educational and digital programming. The fund prioritizes grants for projects that address these issues, particularly during crises. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government agencies that advocate for equal opportunities and community support.

The Ward & Brenda Morgan Community Grant, administered by the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation, aims to support enriching projects in Manhattan and Riley County, Kansas. This grant focuses on fostering community bonding through affordable experiences and providing assistance to vulnerable elderly and youth populations. By investing in initiatives that bring people together, the fund plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life in the community.

The Bill and Sarah Ransom Community Service Award, established by the Waverly Rotary Foundation in partnership with the Community Foundation for the Twin Tiers, honors individuals committed to community service in the Valley Area. This award, named after Bill and Sarah Ransom, recognizes their significant contributions to local organizations. Annually, nominees are evaluated through a formal process, and the recipient chooses a local charity to receive the award funds, ensuring the legacy of civic engagement continues.

The Klamath River Fund: Catalyst Grants aim to foster community-led climate resilience and restorative justice in the Klamath River Basin. This initiative, part of the Humboldt Area Foundation and Wild Rivers Community Foundation, responds to unique community needs with grants under $10,000. Following significant dam removals in 2023-2024, the program will support restoration efforts, enhance well-being, and promote equity across the region, including partnerships with local tribes and organizations.

The Community IDEAS Grant Program, managed by the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation, aims to foster community-led change in Minnesota. With a total of nine grants of $125,000 each available in 2026, this program targets diverse communities, including Greater Minnesota, the Twin Cities Metro Area, and Native-led organizations. Eligible organizations must be nonprofit entities based in Minnesota, committed to using funds for charitable purposes that benefit their communities.

The Community Foundation of Boone County offers an Unrestricted Grant Opportunity to support local nonprofits with grant amounts up to $10,000. Applications will be accepted from August 26 to September 10, 2025, with recipients notified by the end of October. This initiative aims to enhance the quality of life in Boone County by addressing unmet community needs through strategic philanthropic partnerships.

The Community Foundation of Boone County offers a Programming Grant Opportunity to support local nonprofits in addressing community needs. Eligible organizations can submit one application per cycle and will have one year to utilize the grant funds. This initiative aims to enhance the quality of life in Boone County by funding programs that tackle local challenges and their root causes.

The Boone REMC Operation Round Up Grant provides up to $10,000 to eligible nonprofits within the Boone REMC service territory, focusing on community service, economic development, education, youth programs, environment, and disaster relief. Since 1936, Boone REMC has supported local initiatives through member contributions, enhancing community welfare. Grants are awarded bi-monthly, encouraging impactful projects that directly benefit the local area.

The Western Indiana Community Foundation offers Rapid Response Grants aimed at enhancing community services and supporting local nonprofits in Fountain and Vermillion Counties. This streamlined grant process encourages proposals from tax-exempt organizations addressing diverse community needs, including health, education, and cultural affairs. The Foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate community impact and collaboration, ensuring funds are utilized effectively to meet urgent local needs. Applications are accepted monthly, fostering timely support for vital initiatives.