Best Foundation Grants for Nonprofits in Washington

Invest in Others

The Invest in Others 501(c)(3) Charitable Foundation amplifies, celebrates, and inspires the charitable work of the financial services community.

We provide a platform for financial professionals to make an impact on the causes they care about, channeling the philanthropy and volunteerism of the finance industry to make a difference where it’s needed most. We provide critical grant funding for nonprofits nationwide, helping fill gaps left by shrinking budgets and growing need.

Invest in Others Awards

About the Awards

The Invest in Others Awards recognize the charitable work of financial advisors and honors recipients at an annual awards gala in Boston.

Nominations are evaluated based on an advisor’s leadership, dedication, contribution, inspiration and impact on a nonprofit and the community it serves. Three finalists will be selected in each of the five categories with one recipient being chosen for each award.

Award finalists and recipients will receive grants from Invest in Others for their designated charities:

• Honorable mentions will receive $2,000
• Finalists in all five categories will receive $25,000
• Recipients in the Catalyst, Community Service, Emerging Impact, and Volunteer of the Year categories will receive $60,000
• The Lifetime Achievement Award recipient will receive $100,000

Catalyst Award

Presented to an advisor who has been an active stimulus for positive change and displayed entrepreneurial vision and leadership to a nonprofit organization for at least 3 years. This may involve rejuvenating an organization from failing to thriving, or helping to launch a new nonprofit organization.

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.

Emily & Frank Smiddy Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Emily & Frank Smiddy who established the Emily & Frank Smiddy Scholarship Fund of the Community Foundation for Mason County.

Frank Smiddy, former owner of ProAct Environmental Services located in Ludington, has always had a passion for STEM-related learning and wants to give back to the community where he owns his business. He and his wife, Emily, wanted to leave a legacy of students going into this field the best chance possible to get their college education with as little debt as possible, so they established the Emily & Frank Smiddy Scholarship Fund. It is their hope that students receiving this scholarship will be motivated, when they are financially able, to give back to the community to help others see success.

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.

Drs. Ruth & John Carney & Irene Carney Kendrick Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Dr. John Carney, who established the Drs. Ruth & John Carney & Irene Carney Kendrick Memorial Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Mason County.

The Carney’s love of Ludington ran deep, and they served the Ludington community through their family medical practice for over 42 years. Dr. Carney valued education and wanted to help others achieve their dreams. John’s encouraging spirit lives on through this scholarship, established in memory of his first wife and their late daughter, to create opportunities for adult students, students pursuing postgraduate degrees, or those facing barriers to getting a college degree.

Joseph P. Siegferth Sr. and Family Fund

Established by Joseph P. Siegferth Jr. in memory of his father to provide scholarships to graduating high school seniors majoring in elementary education, K-12 physical education, sports management or logistics.

Amount:

• $1,000

Number of awards:

• Varies

Renewal:

• No

About Us

The Community Foundation of NCW is a tax-exempt philanthropic organization that helps individuals, families, businesses, and agencies support charitable causes throughout Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties.

Don and Ellen Garrison Service to Community and School Scholarship

The Don and Ellen Garrison Scholarship celebrates a family history rooted in the Okanogan Valley, beginning when Don's family homesteaded south of Malott in 1917. Don and Ellen built a life of community leadership and dedication, operating their orchard and serving on various local boards. Their commitment to the region remains strong, as both of their sons became educators in Washington, with one son teaching in Okanogan where his father, Don, graduated in 1933.

This award supports graduating seniors of Okanogan High School planning to attend a trade school or college in the U.S. The scholarship seeks applicants who reflect the family's commitment to activity and service. Required criteria include lettering in athletics, participating in a school club or activity, and having a consistent record of community service.

About US

In 1994, a group of visionary Lowcountry community leaders recognized the need to create a community foundation. Through the sale of the nonprofit Hilton Head Hospital, Hilton Head Island Foundation, Inc. was born, with a mission to provide philanthropic leadership to a growing community.

In 2001, our service area expanded to include northern Beaufort County, Colleton, Hampton and Jasper Counties. To reflect this, our name changed to Community Foundation of the Lowcountry.

Jeff Katon Scholarship

Jeff Katon was a beloved son, brother, friend and business associate to many of us in the Hilton Head community. Jeff always displayed great passion for wine, food, golf and his community. The outpouring of support after his untimely death greatly touched Jeff's family and friends. The Jeff Katon Scholarship Foundation was established as a way to give back to the community Jeff loved.

MetroWest Health Foundation

The MetroWest Health Foundation is an independent health philanthropy whose mission is to improve the health status of the community, its individuals, and families through informed and innovative leadership.

The foundation meets the health needs of our region's residents by supporting community-based and community driven programs. We encourage and foster leadership on critical health issues. We are a grantmaker, convener and facilitator, working to provide resources, information, ideas and advocacy for community change. Since its inception in 1999, the foundation has provided more than $50 million in financial support that helps residents and their families lead healthier lives.

MetroWest Health Foundation: Nursing Scholarship

Scholarships are provided to students who are residents of one of the 25 towns in our MetroWest service area. Students must be accepted into an eligible nursing program at an accredited academic institution.

Tuition scholarships are awarded for a maximum of up to $4,000 per academic year. Students can receive a maximum of 4 scholarships. Applicants are eligible to reapply on an annual basis.

Our Story

The IBMA Foundation was created by the International Bluegrass Music Association in 2007 with a bequest from the Richard Barnhart estate. Mr. Barnhart was a musician from northern Virginia who loved bluegrass and wanted to support educational programs for children. Since the beginning, our goal has been to support bluegrass-music-related educational, literary, artistic and historic preservation activities.

In our early years we produced Discover Bluegrass, an educational video that has been used in thousands of classrooms and libraries around the world. We have hosted dozens of teacher workshops and artist trainings. We created a bluegrass lesson plan competition and provided a network for leaders of after-school bluegrass programs.

Our project grants, which now total $25,000 a year, support bluegrass-related initiatives throughout the world. We also fund Bluegrass in the Schools Mini-grants ($7,000/year) which help schools to hire bluegrass bands for school programs. The Rosenberg Bluegrass Scholar Award recognizes excellence in academic research. Six college scholarships are granted for students working in various areas of the bluegrass music industry. The Arnold Shultz Fund supports increased participation of people of color in bluegrass music with grants that total $30,000/ year. Fletcher Bright Memorial Grants for Young Musicians (age 18 and younger) help young people go to bluegrass music camps and workshops, take lessons, and purchase educational materials.

Fletcher Bright Memorial Grant for Young Musicians

The IBMA Foundation is proud to host the Fletcher Bright Memorial Grant for Young Musicians. The Bright family of Chattanooga, Tennessee; Thomas J. Brown of Dalton, Georgia; and Barbara Martin Stephens of Madison, Tennessee made combined gifts of $29,000 in 2020 to create the fund that will benefit young people interested in learning to play bluegrass music and endow it for decades to come.

The Bright family is committed to supporting the endowment, and they welcome donations from others interested in helping young musicians achieve their bluegass education goals.

Fletcher Bright Memorial Grants up to $500 per applicant are awarded to help cover expenses of lessons, educational materials, instrument rental or purchase, workshops, and camps. Young bluegrass musicians at all levels may apply for assistance. Financial need will be considered, but is not required to receive a Bright grant. Applications for Bright grants may be made throughout the year.

Joseph L. Ruby Student Scholarship Fund

Established in honor of former Direction Home Akron Canton President and CEO Joseph Ruby to award scholarships to students enrolled in gerontology, social work, nursing or a related health care program.

Amount:

• $5,000 or more

Number of awards:

• Varies

Renewal:

• Must reapply annually by submission of a new application.

The Arnold Shultz Fund, established by the IBMA Foundation, aims to enhance diversity in bluegrass music by providing $30,000 annually in grants. This initiative supports individuals, schools, and organizations dedicated to inclusivity, particularly among underrepresented racial and ethnic groups. The fund honors Arnold Shultz, a pivotal African American musician who mentored Bill Monroe, and continues his legacy by funding educational opportunities for young musicians and promoting bluegrass music in diverse communities.

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.

Judith A. Resnik Memorial Fund and Judith A. Resnik Scholarship Fund of the Women's Network

Established in memory of Judith A. Resnik to award scholarships to seniors at Akron Public Schools who plan to pursue a career in science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM) or allied fields.

Amount:

• $1,000

Number of awards:

• 2

Renewal:

• Renewable for three additional years. Must maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA, full-time student status, and continue to major in science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM) or allied fields.

Communities Foundation of Oklahoma

The Communities Foundation of Oklahoma stems from the vision of Tom McCasland Jr., and Gene Rainbolt. Two decades ago, these gentlemen formed a shared vision to create a single philanthropic organization to serve the charitable needs to rural communities across the great state of Oklahoma. Today, CFO has grown to assist hundreds of efforts in more than 45 counties.

At the Communities Foundation of Oklahoma, we believe in the power of connecting individuals, nonprofits, businesses, and communities. Because when passionate people are paired with purposes they care about most, the communities in Oklahoma will prosper. We aim to strategically distribute charitable funds, maximize our donors’ impact, and strengthen their communities through stewardship and commitment to sustainable change.

2027 Cherokee Nation Nursing Scholarship

The purpose of this scholarship is to provide financial assistance to Cherokee Nation students pursuing college degrees in nursing no matter the residence of the student. You must currently be enrolled in a bachelor's or master's program (no prerequisites). Payback period required upon program completion, in the Cherokee Nation Reservation. This application is for members of the Cherokee Nation ONLY.

Karma for Cara Microgrants empowers students aged 18 and under to bring their service project ideas to life with funding up to $1,000. Founded in honor of Cara Becker, who inspired community service during her own health journey, the program supports a wide range of initiatives aimed at improving local communities across the U.S. Students are encouraged to demonstrate creativity and community involvement, with grants awarded quarterly to fuel their impactful projects.

Montgomery County Community Foundation Inc.

The Montgomery County Community Foundation (MCCF) bridges the gap between donors and our community – a community full of mission-driven nonprofits and ambitious students looking for a bright future.

Donors work with us to facilitate progress in Montgomery County. With their generous support, we are able to invest their gifts, manage them for growth, and use a portion of the earnings for grants for nonprofits and scholarships for students that are truly making a difference.

Durham Foundation Fund in Honor of Shirley O'Neall

The Durham Foundation was established in 1944 for the purpose of maintaining Durham Home as a residence for independent women. In 1937, Sarah Durham established a trust to provide a comfortable home environment for women. The Durham Foundation operates as a 501c3 organization and oversees the home located at 215 West Main Street, Crawfordsville. 

The Durham Foundation Fund was created by the Durham Foundation board of directors to honor Shirley O’Neall’s service to the organization for over 50 years. It is their wish to support local women pursuing education to better themselves and their contributions to the community.

Carlisle and Troiano Scholarship Fund

Established to provide scholarships for graduating high school seniors who are pursuing a postsecondary degree and are enrolled in Akron Public Schools or any public school district serving Medina County.

Amount:

• Varies
• $2,500 - $7,500

Number of awards:

• Varies (contingent on available funds)

Renewal:

• May reapply annually by submission of a new application.

The NESOT Fall Meeting Oral Presentation Award, sponsored by the Society of Toxicology, recognizes outstanding presentations by students in the Northeast. Up to four students will be selected to present their research, with one receiving a $1,000 prize for the best oral presentation. Eligible candidates must be NESOT members affiliated with institutions in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, or Vermont. Previous winners of the oral award may not compete but can participate in the poster competition.

The NESOT Fall Meeting Postdoc Poster Award, established by the Society of Toxicology, recognizes Postdocs presenting posters at the Northeast Regional Chapter Fall Meeting. Eligible candidates must be NESOT members affiliated with institutions in the region, including Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont. The award of $500 will be presented at the NESOT Annual Meeting, where abstracts will be reviewed by judges prior to the event.

The NESOT Fall Meeting Student Poster Awards, presented by the Society of Toxicology, recognize outstanding student presentations at the Northeast Regional Chapter Fall Meeting. Eligible candidates include undergraduate, graduate, and post-baccalaureate students who are NESOT members. Awards include $750 for 1st place, $500 for 2nd, and $250 for 3rd, along with a separate $125 award for an undergraduate poster presentation, fostering engagement and excellence in the field of toxicology.

About Us

The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County is a resource for local charitable giving. Created by and for the people of San Luis Obispo County, The Community Foundation is an enduring source of charitable funds to meet the changing needs and interests of the region. We envision San Luis Obispo County as an inclusive haven where everyone, regardless of background, feels free to fully participate. In collaboration with our community partners and donors, we seek to foster a safe, respectful environment with ample opportunity for all to reach their potential and contribute to the success of our community. We invite you to join us in celebrating diversity, making sure all of our neighbors feel seen, and free from dehumanizing rhetoric and violence, as we shape a future where all residents can flourish. 

2025-2026 Scholarship Applications

Big dreams start here! With support from generous individuals, families, and businesses, the Community Foundation offers scholarships that help San Luis Obispo County students reach new heights in their education and careers.

Julian Crocker Community Scholarship

This scholarship is in memory of Dr. Julian Crocker, former Superintendent of San Luis Obispo County Schools and longtime educator. Scholarship awards support student pursuing community.

The Justin McCutcheon Memorial Scholarship, offered by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, honors the memory of Justin McCutcheon by supporting high school seniors who are members of a Central Coast Athletic Association Golf Team. This scholarship aims to empower students in San Luis Obispo County to pursue their educational and career aspirations. Applications for the 2025-2026 scholarship cycle are now open, providing an opportunity for students to achieve their dreams.

The W. Storrs Cole Memorial Research Award, offered by the Geological Society of America (GSA), supports innovative research in invertebrate micropaleontology. This prestigious award honors the legacy of Dr. W. Storrs Cole, a pivotal figure in the society's history. Recipients may be previous awardees and must have published significant works in the field. The GSA aims to advance geoscience through such initiatives, fostering scientific discovery and professional growth among earth scientists globally.

The Kelly A. McAdams Scholarship, offered by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, supports high school seniors, undergraduates, and returning students in their educational pursuits. Established in memory of Kelly A. McAdams, this scholarship aims to empower local students to achieve their academic and career goals. With a commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity, the foundation encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply for this opportunity in the 2025-2026 academic year.

Medina County Women's Scholarship FundOriginally established by the American Association of University Women of Medina County to award scholarships to nontraditional female students. A nontraditional student is a woman whose undergraduate education has been interrupted or delayed.Amount:

• Varies

Number of awards:

• Varies

Renewal:

• Must reapply annually by submission of a new application; however, any applicant cannot be selected more than twice for this scholarship.

The Lois and Duke Williams Memorial Scholarship, offered by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, aims to support students who have faced challenges in their lives and wish to pursue post-secondary education. Open to high school seniors, undergraduates, and returning students, this scholarship represents a commitment to fostering educational opportunities for those who strive for success despite obstacles. Apply now to take your first step towards achieving your dreams!

Oncology Nursing Foundation

The mission of the Oncology Nursing Foundation is to support cancer nursing excellence.

Since 1981, the Oncology Nursing Foundation(ONF), through generous contributions from individuals and institutions, has provided more than $33 million in funding to support oncology nursing education, research and leadership development. This funding has translated to career development awards, academic scholarships, research grants, a myriad of specialized educational initiatives, as well as nurse resiliency support. The Foundation’s activities have played a critical role in improving patient care and advancing the oncology nursing profession.

Radiation Oncology Certified Nurse (ROCN™) Exam Scholarship

Recipients receive funding to cover the ONCC ROCN™ Certification exam fee.

Purpose

To support registered oncology nurses who specialize in providing care for adult or pediatric patients with cancer undergoing radiation therapy by providing funding support to cover the ROCN™ Certification exam fee. 

The Eastman Departmental Residency and Colloquium Grant provides funding to enhance the mission of the Institute for Music Leadership (IML) at the Eastman School of Music. It fosters collaboration with various departments, inviting external experts for presentations and events. Additionally, the New Faculty Grant is specifically for new full-time faculty within their first two years, promoting professional development opportunities. Only two grants are awarded annually, emphasizing support for departments that did not receive funding in the previous year.