Best Grants for Grassroots Organizations in Wisconsin

Healthcare Assistance Grant

The MS Focus Healthcare Assistance Grant assists uninsured individuals with the cost of visiting their MS specialist as well as dental assistance. The grant, which can pay for one visit and one follow-up, is designed to assist those already diagnosed with MS who may need a visit to their treating physician to renew a prescription or handle other important needs. 

Applicants give MS Focus staff authorization to negotiate costs directly with the provider, and the fee is paid directly to the doctor. 

The Goodwine Scholarship, offered by the Erie Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from public or private high schools in Erie County pursuing a two-year associate degree or certificate. In 2023, the foundation awarded over $800,000 in scholarships to more than 500 students, ensuring they have the opportunity to further their education and skills. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 to qualify for this valuable support.

The Residential Services for Unaccompanied Alien Children program, funded by the US Department of Health & Human Services, aims to provide safe and child-centered care for unaccompanied minors. This initiative supports organizations that can offer 24/7 services and are licensed to provide necessary care, including group homes and transitional foster care, particularly in areas near the U.S. southern border, ensuring the well-being of vulnerable children.

Who We Are

The Community Foundation of Central Illinois will make a sustainable philanthropic impact in our community through visible leadership in connecting people who care with causes that matter.

Women in Leadership of Central Illinois Scholarship Fund

The Women in Leadership of Central Illinois Scholarship Fund was established by the Women in Leadership of Central Illinois to provide scholarship support for women in the Tri-County (Peoria) area, who are pursuing secondary or post-graduate education or certification at an accredited college or university.

Women in Leadership Mission

To promote leadership among women by providing mentoring, networking, and educational opportunities.

About Pfizer

Pfizer supports the global healthcare community’s independent initiatives (e.g., research, quality improvement, or education) to improve patient outcomes in areas of unmet medical need that are aligned with medical and/or scientific strategies.

About the American Headache Society

The American Headache Society strives to improve the lives of people impacted by migraine and other headache disorders. The AHS is a professional society of health care providers dedicated to the study and treatment of headache and face pain. The Society’s objective is to promote the exchange of information and ideas concerning the causes and treatments of headache and related painful disorders. Educating physicians, health professionals, and the public while encouraging scientific research are the primary functions of the Society.

Quality Improvement and/or Research Grants: Migraine and Women’s Health

Migraine is a prevalent and debilitating neurological disease that disproportionately affects women, impacting quality of life, productivity, and overall health. Recognizing the need for innovative solutions and enhanced care, Pfizer and the American Headache Society (AHS) are collaborating to offer a new grant opportunity inviting proposals for collaborative quality improvement and research projects focused on migraine and women's health. This Request for Proposals (RFP) aims to foster high-impact research and initiatives that advance scientific understanding, improve patient outcomes, and address gaps in care. Projects should also contribute to the core goal of the AHS – improving the lives of people impacted by migraine and other headache disorders.

Objectives

• To advance research in migraine and women's health through collaborative pre-clinical and clinical projects
• To promote quality improvement initiatives that enhance diagnosis, treatment, and management of migraine in women
• To encourage multidisciplinary approaches that integrate clinical expertise, patient-centered care, and innovative research methodologies
• To generate measurable and actionable outcomes that contribute to improved standards of care and inform future research directions for women with migraine

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

O'Shea Patrick McCarthy Scholarship

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.

The Early Head Start Expansion and Child Care Partnership Grants aim to enhance early childhood services for low-income families across GA, NC, and VA. With approximately $7.7 million in federal funding, this initiative will provide comprehensive support to pregnant women, infants, and toddlers, fostering family stability and community prosperity. The program reflects the Administration for Children and Families' commitment to improving economic and social well-being through accessible, high-quality early education services.

The Ramiro Cortes Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, honors the legacy of composer Ramiro Cortés, who was a pioneering Mexican-American musician. This scholarship supports graduating seniors from Chelan or Douglas counties who are pursuing full-time music studies. Funded entirely by concert proceeds, it aims to foster new talent in classical music while commemorating Cortés’ significant contributions to the field.

The Burroughs Wellcome Fund's Climate Change and Human Health Seed Grants aim to foster innovative collaborations among diverse fields to address climate change's effects on health. With $1M dedicated from Fall 2023 to Summer 2026, grants range from $2,500 to $50,000. This initiative encourages partnerships between biomedical scientists, public health experts, and community organizations, promoting sustainable health systems and effective climate communication. Proposals are accepted on a rolling basis, emphasizing creative solutions to pressing health challenges.

Who We Are

The Community Foundation of Central Illinois will make a sustainable philanthropic impact in our community through visible leadership in connecting people who care with causes that matter.

Joyce and Thomas H. Stanisic Scholarship Fund 

The Joyce and Thomas H. Stanisic Scholarship Fund was established to award scholarships based on need to students working toward a degree or certification in the music or healthcare fields. This scholarship will be given for the entire expected course of study, up to 4 years.

The CFSI Education Fund Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Southern Indiana, awards multiple $2,000 non-renewable scholarships to students over 25 who have some college experience but no degree. This program aims to support those returning to complete their post-secondary education, including vocational training. By empowering individuals from Clark and Floyd counties, the scholarship fosters educational advancement and community growth, reflecting the foundation's commitment to enriching lives through learning.

The Katie Moore Memorial Nursing Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, supports students pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing. Preference is given to those specializing in pediatric nursing and with relevant experience. Eligible candidates must have completed two years of college with a minimum GPA of 3.5 or be enrolled in an RN to BSN program. This scholarship honors Katie Moore's legacy and aims to foster compassionate care for children.

The Kathryn Lodge Mhatre Creative Writing Scholarship honors the memory of Kathryn Lodge Mhatre, a passionate writer and compassionate individual who tragically lost her battle with mental illness. Established by her parents, this scholarship supports students from Chelan or Douglas County pursuing creative writing. Eligible applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA and provide a writing sample, reflecting Kathryn's dedication to learning and her love for storytelling.

The Junior Hamilton Memorial Baseball Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, supports graduating seniors from Wenatchee, Eastmont, or Westside High Schools. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.85 and have participated in a high school baseball program for at least two years. This scholarship honors Junior Hamilton's legacy, empowering student-athletes and mariachi students to pursue higher education and achieve their dreams.

The Student Research Grant in Audiology, offered by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Foundation, supports doctoral students conducting research in clinical and rehabilitative audiology. Up to three grants of $2,000 each are available for eligible students enrolled in accredited programs in the U.S. This initiative honors the legacies of Ira Ventry and Brad Friedrich, who made significant contributions to the field of audiology. Interested candidates must submit proposals for research projects to be initiated in this vital area.

About Us

We are YOUR Community Foundation! Our mission is to bring people and resources together to strengthen the quality of life, both now and in the future, for the residents of Randolph County.

The Community Foundation of Randolph County, Inc. is here to make our community the very best place to live, work, and raise a family. As a non-political private organization, we are uniquely able to provide grant money for innovative projects that have a major impact on our community.

Dr. Dianna K. Wolfe Memorial Scholarship

Dr. Dianna K. Wolfe was a lifelong resident of Winchester. After graduating from Lee Driver High School at the age of 17, she started Nurses Training at Ball Memorial Hospital School of Nursing, where she received her nursing degree. She earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Indiana University. She also earned her master’s degree and her doctorate degree from Ball State University. She joined the Ball State University School of Nursing faculty in 1977, teaching in the associate, baccalaureate, and graduate nursing programs for about 33 years, where she maintained her professional clinical practice as an evening supervisor. During her career she was flexible, adaptable, and willing to try new teaching strategies as technology progressed, and her students gave her high ratings throughout her tenure as being well organized and relating course materials effectively.

During that time, she raised six children. Her love of education inspired her husband, Robert, to go to school and he subsequently earned two degrees.

In creating the Dr. Dianna K. Wolfe Memorial Scholarship, her family hopes to continue her legacy by assisting students interested in obtaining education to work in the healthcare field.

About

Mission, Vision & Values

To enhance our community through philanthropy.

We aspire to co-create diverse, meaningful and innovative charitable giving that yields an exponential positive impact within local communities and beyond.

Coopey Boys’ Memorial Fund

About the fund

The Coopey Boys, Raymond Peter and Lauritz Martin, were born with hemophilia, a genetic disorder that impairs the body’s ability to make blood clots. Sadly, they both died at an early age. The Coopey Boys’ Memorial Fund benefits Corvallis students who suffer from a physical handicap or serious chronic health problem.

The Alex O. Santillanes Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of NCW, honors the legacy of Alex O. Santillanes, a dedicated youth advocate in the Yakima Valley. This scholarship supports Hispanic high school seniors from the region pursuing higher education in Washington. Eligible applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 and demonstrate resilience against social and economic inequities, particularly those from single-parent families. The scholarship aims to empower the next generation of leaders.

In 2020, GradGuard founded College Life Protected, LLC as a social purpose entity that supports programs, research, professional development, and best practices in higher education that promote greater confidence in the value of higher education as a public good. 

College Life Protected invites the higher education community to apply for grants that are consistent with our mission.

Promoting Financial Literacy

College Life Protected recognizes that that financial literacy is a critical skill for student success, impacting everything from academic persistence to long-term financial well-being. That’s why we are committed to funding programs and initiatives that equip students with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed financial decisions.

By supporting programs that enhance financial education, we aim to empower students to navigate college costs, manage personal finances, and build a strong financial future.

The Blue Mountain Community Foundation Common Scholarship supports current high school seniors and graduates from Walla Walla, Columbia, Garfield, or Umatilla County who have been residents for at least three consecutive years. It also includes adults residing in these counties and those working in the wine industry or pursuing degrees at the University of Idaho or WSU. This scholarship simplifies the application process by allowing students to apply once for multiple scholarships.

CHEJ Small Grants Program

The Small Grants Program has officially relaunched. Applications are now open.The Center for Health, Environment & Justice’s (CHEJ) Small Grants Program is for grassroots groups working on environmental health and justice issues related to the presence of “toxics” (toxic chemicals or hazardous substances) in their immediate communities. CHEJ prioritizes community-based organizations aiming to have local, state and regional impact through their own strategies and actions.

The Adult Learner Scholarship by College Now Greater Cleveland supports adult students aged 19 and older who have interrupted their education. Eligible applicants must be pursuing a first bachelor’s degree, associate’s degree, or a vocational certificate. This renewable scholarship, which ranges from $1,500 to $2,000 annually, is available for up to five years or until degree completion. Applicants must meet GPA requirements and reside in specific Northeast Ohio counties, ensuring access to education for returning learners.

The FY 2027 – 2029 Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) by the National Marine Fisheries Service invites innovative research and educational projects that enhance NOAA's mission. This funding opportunity focuses on applied environmental and cultural resource research, technical assistance, and education to promote effective stewardship of public lands. Please note that the availability of funds is contingent on appropriations, and this announcement does not guarantee project funding or review beyond initial administrative checks.

The Kowalik Family Christopher Gott Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Erie Community Foundation, aims to support a high school senior from the City of Erie who embodies Christopher Gott's passion for learning and skill development. In 2023, the foundation provided over $800,000 in scholarships to more than 500 students pursuing further education. This scholarship honors Christopher, a devoted nurse and classical guitarist, who epitomized the spirit of continuous personal growth.

About the Bertin Family Foundation

Founders: Kim and Jennifer BertinAfter a successful career innovating orthopedic surgical techniques, devices, and implants, Kim and his wife Jennifer feel a deep sense of stewardship to dedicate their resources to helping others. They engage all three generations of the Bertin family in hands-on service and grantmaking decisions, fostering a shared commitment to giving back. Through the foundation’s work, the Bertin family seeks to strengthen communities, support meaningful causes, and inspire future generations to lead with compassion and purpose. 

NOW Grants

A limited number of grants are available for one time projects or programs that emerge outside of the standard review period. These grants are for $5000 or less.

The Blue Bird Auxiliary Scholarship Fund, established by the San Antonio Area Foundation, offers financial support for graduate and current college students pursuing degrees in healthcare-related fields. Eligible candidates must maintain a GPA of 3.1 and be active volunteers with the Blue J/Blue Bird organization. This scholarship, renewable for up to three years, covers tuition, fees, books, and living expenses, helping students achieve their educational goals while serving the community.

The AAAAI Foundation Faculty Development Award provides $300,000 in funding over three years to support the growth of junior faculty in the fields of allergy and immunology. This initiative, spearheaded by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, aims to foster the development of future leaders and independent researchers dedicated to combating asthma and allergic diseases through impactful research.