Best Quality of Life Grants in West Virginia

Academy Sports + Outdoors, a leading sporting goods retailer, supports community initiatives by providing donations to registered 501(c)(3) organizations. Their focus is on promoting safety and responsibility in sports and outdoor activities. Proposals must foster community engagement and must not be affiliated with religious or political groups. Events should take place in areas with Academy stores, ensuring a positive local impact while encouraging active lifestyles and connection among community members.

The Alcon Foundation focuses on enhancing global eye health through charitable monetary donations to 501(c)(3) organizations. Grants aim to support programs that improve access to quality eye care and education, fostering community development. Eligible applicants must demonstrate high-quality services, well-defined goals, and the ability to report outcomes. The foundation does not fund organizations that discriminate or are not 501(c)(3) compliant, ensuring that resources are directed towards impactful initiatives.

The Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation aims to foster human development in West Virginia and Southwestern Pennsylvania by strategically distributing charitable resources. Guided by principles of collaboration and innovation, the Foundation supports community development and health initiatives. Their focus includes enhancing health care accessibility, promoting leadership, and addressing social determinants of health. They prioritize projects that engage diverse community members and encourage cross-sector collaboration to maximize impact and sustainability in these regions.

The Community Grant Program, supported by the ARH Foundation, aims to enhance healthcare, education, and community involvement in Eastern Kentucky and Southern West Virginia. This program invites non-profit organizations to apply for funding to implement projects that improve the quality of life, particularly for women and children. Eligible projects should address health education, improve health outcomes, and promote collaboration among organizations, thereby fostering a healthier community.

West Virginia Community Advancement and Development

West Virginia Community Advancement and Development works to encourage strong civic engagement through INFRASTRUCTURE, SUSTAINABILITY, COMPLIANCE, and RESILIENCY. WV CAD administers state and federal programs designed to improve the quality of life in West Virginia.

Community Service Block Grant

The Community Service Block Grant is a federal anti-poverty program administered by the Community Advancement and Development office of the WV Department of Economic Development. CSBG is funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Administration for Children and Families (ACF) and administered by the Office of Community Services ACF-OCS.

CSBG is not a competitive grant. Eligible applicants are Community Action Agencies that are designated by the Governor of West Virginia to administer the Community Services Block Grant. CSBG does not directly fund individuals but provides funding to Community Action Agencies throughout the state. The purpose in West Virginia is to aid a network of 15 Community Action Agencies (CAAs) in the reduction of poverty, revitalization of low-income communities, and to provide economic opportunities for low-income families.

Organizations which were officially designated as Community Action Agencies (CAAs) under the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 and were specifically designated by the 1981 CSBG Act as eligible entities to receive CSBG funds.

All recipients of CSBG funds submit community action plans and budgets detailing the programs, services, and activities to be conducted using CSBG funding.

Benefits of CSBG

WV's Community Action Agencies are independent non-profit organizations each providing a unique mix of community services. CSBG funding supports projects that:

• Lessen poverty in communities
• Address the needs of low-income individuals including the homeless, migrants and the elderly
• Provide services and activities addressing employment, education, better use of available income, housing, nutrition, emergency services and/or health

The Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation promotes human development in West Virginia and Southwestern Pennsylvania by providing strategic charitable resources. The foundation focuses on education and economic development, prioritizing projects that enhance teacher quality, support early childhood education, and foster innovative economic initiatives. By investing in programs that bridge geographical boundaries and encourage collaboration among sectors, the foundation aims to cultivate leadership and sustainable growth in the region.

Highmark Corporate Giving is dedicated to enhancing community health and economic resilience across its service areas. With a focus on equitable access to healthcare and support for local organizations, Highmark aims to reduce health disparities and promote well-being. Their initiatives, such as the Bright Blue Futures program, provide funding to impactful community projects, supporting a diverse range of organizations that align with their mission of fostering healthier, more vibrant communities.

The Highmark Foundation provides high-impact grants aimed at enhancing community health in Pennsylvania and West Virginia. It supports evidence-based programs that address critical health issues, including chronic diseases, family health, and access to care. The Foundation prioritizes initiatives that demonstrate sustainable solutions and collaboration with community partners. By funding diverse health-related projects, it aims to improve the well-being of underserved populations, ensuring that vital health interventions reach those in need.

The Pleasants Community Foundation, established in 2000, enhances the quality of life in Pleasants County, West Virginia, through charitable giving. With over 56 funds exceeding $3 million, it supports scholarships for local high school graduates and community organizations. The Foundation's grants address various community needs, from library resources to emergency equipment for fire departments. Organizations seeking assistance can apply for funding directly through their website. This commitment reflects the Foundation's role in fostering local philanthropy and community development.

The Steel Dynamics Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community quality of life and local economies by supporting 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Priorities include higher education, economic development, and human services, particularly in communities where Steel Dynamics operates. Grants are awarded based on community impact, employee involvement, and organizational integrity. Applicants must demonstrate a strong ethical track record and effective community engagement to qualify for funding opportunities.

Truist Foundation

The Truist Foundation is committed to Truist Financial Corporation's (NYSE: TFC) purpose to inspire and build better lives and communities. Established in 2020, the foundation makes strategic investments in nonprofit organizations to help ensure the communities it serves have more opportunities for a better quality of life. The Truist Foundation's grants and activities focus on building career pathways to economic mobility and strengthening small businesses.

Inspire Awards

This year’s Inspire Awards seeks nonprofits supporting the career navigation and workforce development needs of workers across the United States. The challenge seeks applications that help individuals gain the skills, guidance, and support needed to access quality jobs, advance in their careers, and build long-term stability in an evolving world of work.

2026 Truist Foundation Inspire Awards Challenge Question

How are nonprofits providing innovative direct services, training programs, and career navigation supports for adult workers in the age of AI?

Challenge Dimensions

Nonprofit organizations have long been critical advocates and service providers for workers in the United States. Nonprofits provide workers necessary upskilling opportunities, AI literacy training, career navigation support, and wraparound services in conjunction with career pathways programming. All necessary for the modern workforce. Meeting the moment, Truist Foundation and MIT Solve want to hear the ways in which nonprofits headquartered in the Truist operating footprint are providing innovative career pathway programming in the age of AI. Although solutions don’t need to focus on generative AI specifically, teams should demonstrate how their career pathways programming align with the following dimensions:

• Training and Upskilling Programs – Providing holistic, accessible programming that equips workers with essential skills, industry-validated credentials, and technical literacy for the modern workplace.
• AI Readiness and Literacy – Offering high-quality training that helps workers understand generative AI and agentic technologies as augmented intelligence tools, helping to build practical skills like effective prompting, domain expertise application, and ethical use.
• Additional Wraparound Services and Basic Needs Support – Supporting unemployed and underemployed workers on their journey to economic mobility through comprehensive, integrated resources including childcare, transportation support, mentorship, mental health services, benefits navigation, and more.
• Career Navigation in the AI Economy – Enabling workers to navigate career choices with clarity and confidence by providing accessible information about how AI is reshaping job roles and industries, facilitating informed decisions about high-quality career trajectories that align with individual circumstances, and connecting workers to industry-validated credentials or trainings.

Here are the grants for this challenge

• First place: $250,000
• Second place: $150,000
• Runners-up: $25,000
• Audience favorite: $75,000

The Alcon Foundation Grant aims to enhance eye care services and improve patient access, with a focus on educational and training programs. The foundation also supports cultural and community development initiatives that uplift the quality of life in areas where Alcon operates, including cities like Fort Worth, Houston, and Irvine. However, it does not fund non-501(c)(3) organizations, athletic leagues, or fundraising events, among other exclusions.

The Nicholas County Community Foundation, established in 2006, is a 501(c)3 public charity dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Nicholas County, West Virginia. By managing charitable funds, the foundation supports diverse local causes through competitive grant-making. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public institutions. Grants focus on capital projects and special programs in arts, education, health, and youth services, ensuring community needs are met sustainably for the future.

The Baltimore Life Community Grants Program, established by the Baltimore Life Foundation, awards grants of up to $500 to nonprofit organizations in various states, including Maryland and Virginia. This initiative aims to enhance community quality of life through projects that focus on family safety and community enhancement. Eligible applicants must be IRS-certified 501(c)(3) organizations, with priority given to those with volunteer support. This program reflects Baltimore Life's commitment to corporate citizenship and community involvement.

The PACF Community Action Grants support nonprofits in West Virginia through a competitive grant process twice a year. Grants up to $20,000 are available for diverse fields such as Arts, Education, and Community Development. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) entities serving the Foundation's 11-county area. Projects addressing community needs and enhancing organizational capacity are prioritized, especially in areas with limited support options. Interested applicants should ensure project eligibility before applying.

The West Virginia Stream Partners Grant Program, supported by multiple state agencies, offers up to $5,000 for organizations focused on enhancing and protecting local streams and rivers. Projects must engage community members and demonstrate an ability to improve water quality and habitats. Eligible applicants must reside in the surrounding area, representing diverse groups in the community. This program promotes sustainable watershed associations aimed at fostering environmental stewardship and public access to natural resources.

The West Virginia Humanities Council provides matching grants for nonprofit organizations to create public humanities programming in West Virginia. These major grants support various projects such as lectures, exhibits, and educational programs. Applicants must involve qualified humanities scholars and allow twelve weeks between the application deadline and project initiation. The program aims to enhance public understanding of the humanities, fostering engagement and appreciation of cultural heritage across the state.

Toyota Motor Manufacturing, West Virginia, Inc. (TMMWV) Grant aims to empower communities by partnering with nonprofit organizations. The grant focuses on enhancing STEM education and workforce readiness, addressing the specific needs of local areas in West Virginia. Toyota emphasizes collaboration to tackle pressing societal challenges and seeks to create sustainable impacts by supporting qualified nonprofit organizations and public schools, while adhering to their non-discrimination policy.

The FTSC Community Grants aim to enhance the quality of life in the Tri-State area by providing funding for innovative projects that strengthen non-profits and address significant community challenges. Eligible organizations, including 501(c)(3) charities, can apply for these grants, with a focus on improving management capacity and testing new solutions. The Foundation awards grants biannually, ensuring a responsive approach to community needs.

The Frank C. Fischer Veterans Fund, managed by the Eastern West Virginia Community Foundation, aims to support organizations serving veterans in Berkeley, Hampshire, Hardy, Jefferson, and Morgan Counties. Grants of up to $2,000 are available to eligible nonprofits, government agencies, and civic groups focused on improving the quality of life for veterans. This initiative highlights the foundation's commitment to philanthropy and community well-being in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia.

The CNX Foundation Grant aims to enhance the Appalachian region through strategic investments totaling $30 million. With a focus on sustainability and community development, the grant addresses pressing socio-economic challenges such as food insecurity, health and wellness for children, and technological access. By fostering local initiatives, CNX Foundation aspires to create measurable impacts that uplift communities and promote long-term growth, embodying their commitment to environmental, social, and governance principles.

The CFOV Community Impact Grants provide support for various community-focused initiatives, emphasizing youth leadership, recreation, and economic mobility. Targeting organizations in specific West Virginia and Ohio counties, these grants encourage programs that foster personal growth, civic engagement, and financial stability. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and government entities. The foundation prioritizes projects that benefit a broad public segment while excluding general operating support or activities lacking measurable outcomes.

The Chesapeake Bay Green Streets, Green Jobs, Green Towns (G3) Grant Program, funded by the EPA and Chesapeake Bay Trust, supports innovative green infrastructure projects enhancing community livability. With funding opportunities ranging from conceptual plans to full project implementation, this program aims to reduce stormwater runoff, improve urban green spaces, and boost local water health within the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Eligible locations include parts of Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, as well as New York.

The Moore Community Fund Grant, established by the Moore Family, supports projects enhancing community quality of life, especially those benefiting youth and outdoor activities. Preference is given to initiatives involving young people, reflecting the family's historical ties to local educational and recreational programs. Nonprofits in Greenbrier, Monroe, and Pocahontas counties are eligible to apply for varying grant amounts based on fund earnings.

The EWVCF Youth Grants support programs that aid disadvantaged children in Jefferson, Berkeley, and Morgan counties. Grants up to $5,000 are available for initiatives that enhance children's quality of life through educational, athletic, and community-based activities. The foundation encourages applications from diverse programs promoting equity and inclusion. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, government agencies, and civic organizations that provide direct benefits to the community.

West Virginia Community Advancement and Development

West Virginia Community Advancement and Development works to encourage strong civic engagement through INFRASTRUCTURE, SUSTAINABILITY, COMPLIANCE, and RESILIENCY. WV CAD administers state and federal programs designed to improve the quality of life in West Virginia.

Neighborhood Investment Program

What is NIP?

The Neighborhood Investment Program (NIP) is a tax credit program of $3 million each year, which allows 501(c)3 designated charitable organizations to apply for tax credit vouchers, which began in 1996 with $2 million. When awarded, the organization can distribute the vouchers to business and individuals who contribute a minimum of $500 to organizations, receiving up to 50% in tax credit, allowing the donor or corporation to reduce their West Virginia tax liability no more than 50%. The organizations pay a 3% fee on the donation, which offsets the administrative costs of NIP. 

Benefits of NIP

There are 15,883 non-profits in West Virginia and we assist 200 of them each year with NIP credits, which has leveraged over $143 million in donations since inception.

Projects generally eligible for program participation include but are not limited to the following:

• Health clinics
• Homeless shelters
• Educational programs
• Housing programs
• Preservation/revitalization activities
• Domestic violence shelters
• Children's shelters
• Meal delivery programs
• Senior citizens' centers
• Community foundations
• Scholarship programs
• Hospice care
• Transportation programs
• Day care centers
• Counseling services
• Services for the disabled

About Us

Funding through the many programs offered by the West Virginia Community Advancement and Development office have improved the quality of life in our state in a variety of ways. Learn more about the impact we have had in the communities where you live and work.

Neighborhood Investment Program

The Neighborhood Investment Program (NIP) is a tax credit program of $3 million each year, which allows 501(c)3 designated charitable organizations to apply for tax credit vouchers, which began in 1996 with $2 million. When awarded, the organization can distribute the vouchers to business and individuals who contribute a minimum of $500 to organizations, receiving up to 50% in tax credit, allowing the donor or corporation to reduce their West Virginia tax liability no more than 50%. The organizations pay a 3% fee on the donation, which offsets the administrative costs of NIP. During this time, approximately 68,190 donations from individuals and businesses have been received.

Benefits of NIP

There are 15,883 non-profits in West Virginia and we assist 200 of them each year with NIP credits, which has leveraged over $143 million in donations since inception.

Funding for NIP

Amount: $3 million annually

Source of Funds: State of West Virginia