Best Human and Social Service Grants in North Carolina

The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

The Amgen Foundation Inc focuses on non-healthcare donations and sponsorships that target humanitarian, social, educational, and community programs. They offer support to organizations outside the U.S. healthcare community, particularly those recognized as tax-exempt public charities. Eligible organizations must serve specific Amgen communities throughout the U.S. This initiative aims to enhance health outcomes and address critical societal needs, thereby reducing the burden of disease and improving lives.

The North Carolina Civil Money Penalty Funds program, managed by the NC Department of Health and Human Services, provides financial assistance aimed at enhancing the quality of care in nursing homes. These funds, derived from monetary penalties imposed on non-compliant facilities, support initiatives such as resident relocation, training for staff, and improvements in facility quality. Eligible organizations include advocacy groups, nursing home associations, and academic institutions, all dedicated to promoting better care and quality of life for residents.

The SECU Foundation Grant, offered by the State Employees Credit Union Foundation, focuses on supporting non-profits and governmental organizations that embody the philosophy of people helping people. The grant aims to promote community development through high-impact projects in housing, education, healthcare, and human services. Eligible projects should be tangible, have a statewide or major regional impact, and enhance the conditions for public employees in North Carolina. This initiative fosters collaboration and addresses critical community issues.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

The GSK IMPACT Awards in North Carolina honor outstanding nonprofit organizations making a significant impact on community health. This annual program, in partnership with the Triangle Community Foundation, recognizes up to ten organizations for their exemplary contributions to health and wellness. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to improving community health through innovative and effective programs. Eligible organizations must operate in the Triangle area and meet specific criteria regarding revenue and community impact.

The Impact Fund provides recoverable grants to legal services nonprofits and small law firms working on social, environmental, and economic justice issues. With over $10 million awarded since 1992, the fund supports impactful litigation addressing systemic injustices. Grants range from $10,000 to $50,000 and prioritize cases directly involving affected communities. Recipients must repay the grant amount with interest if they recover fees or costs, ensuring sustainability for future funding.

The Paul Green Foundation, established in 1982, continues the legacy of playwright Paul Green by supporting North Carolina 501(c)(3) organizations. It funds dramatic productions and projects that promote human rights, racial equality, and the arts. The foundation encourages proposals that creatively intertwine these themes, reflecting Green's commitment to social change through literature and performance. Notably, Green's works, including the Pulitzer Prize-winning play "In Abraham's Bosom," highlight the struggles for education and justice faced by marginalized communities.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

The Philip L. Van Every Foundation provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations in North and South Carolina, focusing on education, healthcare, human services, and the arts. With a commitment to strengthen communities and support fiscal responsibility, the foundation aims to enhance lives through meaningful projects. Organizations must demonstrate a track record of success to be eligible for funding, which is generally awarded for special projects and capital needs.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

The Refugee Support Services Grant aims to provide essential services to refugees and other eligible populations in North Carolina, ensuring their self-sufficiency, stability, and integration. This funding opportunity, administered by the NC Department of Health and Human Services, offers resources for social adjustment, education, training, and employment services. It seeks to address barriers faced by refugees and promote positive outcomes for individuals and families, enhancing community welfare and successful resettlement.

The Unifour Foundation Endowment Fund, established in 1998, supports qualified charitable organizations in Alexander, Burke, Caldwell, and Catawba counties. With over $3 million awarded since 1991, grants typically range from $5,000 to $10,000. The fund prioritizes projects addressing early childhood education, mental health, and community needs like housing and food insecurity. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) charities and local government units, with applications open to those serving the designated areas.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) is launching the NC ROOTS initiative to enhance rural health in North Carolina. This program empowers regional organizations to implement community-driven strategies aimed at improving healthcare access and quality. Eligible entities must possess a Unique Entity Identifier and demonstrate at least three years of operational experience in the state. Funding will support initiatives such as expanding primary care, integrating behavioral health services, and enhancing the healthcare workforce.

The Bertie-Hertford Women's Fund Grant, operated by the North Carolina Community Foundation, empowers local organizations supporting women, children, and families in Bertie and Hertford counties. Grants range from $500 to $2,500 and prioritize initiatives in health, education, and human services. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt charities and local government units, with a focus on non-discrimination. The fund emphasizes women’s leadership in philanthropy and community engagement, making impactful contributions to enhance local lives.

The Hoke County Community Foundation Grant Program, part of the North Carolina Community Foundation, supports charitable organizations across 67 counties. It offers funding for diverse purposes, including education, health, and arts. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt public charities or local government units, ensuring programs are accessible without discrimination. The program also includes the Mary Archie McNeill Endowment, specifically for music and cultural arts in Hoke County, with $12,650 available for grants.

The Onslow Caring Communities Foundation Grants, managed by the North Carolina Community Foundation, aim to support nonprofit organizations in Onslow County. With grant amounts ranging from $750 to $3,000, and up to $16,000 available for broader charitable purposes, the foundation encourages projects that enhance community welfare. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt public charities or local government units, fostering initiatives that promote social outreach and animal welfare without discrimination.

The Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation invites eligible organizations to apply for the State-Level Systemic Change Grant. This grant supports initiatives aimed at creating lasting, systemic improvements across North Carolina. Emphasizing equity and inclusion, the Foundation seeks to address barriers faced by historically marginalized communities, ensuring access to quality education, a healthy environment, and economic opportunities. This grant aligns with the Foundation's mission to foster a thriving, equitable society for all North Carolinians.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.

The John William Pope Foundation provides annual grants focusing on human services and the arts, primarily in North Carolina's Wake and Vance Counties. Established in 1986, the Foundation promotes self-reliance and community responsibility, funding initiatives that address critical social challenges. By prioritizing private resources over government funding, it fosters creative expression and supports nonprofits that empower individuals and families. The Foundation's mission is to ensure future generations have equal opportunities for success.

Moore Women – A Giving Circle, part of the North Carolina Community Foundation, empowers women through collective philanthropy. It supports organizations that address the needs of women and children in Moore County across health, education, and human services. The Circle offers grants typically ranging from $500 to $5,000, aiming to enhance women's leadership in philanthropy while fostering community impact. Applicants must be qualified charities or local government units, ensuring inclusive and equitable support.

The Human Services and Education Grant, offered by The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, provides up to $25,000 to support programs addressing the needs of economically disadvantaged individuals and educational initiatives. Grants aim to enhance early childhood development, K-12 education, and adult learning opportunities. Eligible organizations must serve specific WNC counties and demonstrate sustainability. However, the fund does not cover general operating expenses or support for capital projects. This grant cycle encourages impactful community-focused projects.

The Currituck-Dare Community Foundation Grant, part of the North Carolina Community Foundation’s Community Grantmaking Program, supports charitable organizations across 67 counties. It funds diverse local needs such as education, health, and environmental initiatives. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) public charities and local government units. Grants are not available for political purposes or operations restricted by faith. The foundation aims to enhance community welfare through philanthropic efforts.

The Harnett County Community Foundation provides support to charitable organizations in North Carolina, particularly those addressing COVID-19 challenges. By forgoing the traditional grant cycle, the foundation aims to assist nonprofits in various sectors, including education, health, and the arts. This initiative aligns with its mission to enhance community welfare through philanthropy and direct action. Organizations eligible for funding must be tax-exempt public charities or local government units, ensuring broad support for local needs.