Best Recreation Grants for Nonprofits in Wisconsin

The Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative supports outdoor enthusiasts and promotes responsible use of off-highway vehicles (OHVs). Its mission includes educating the public on land use and wildlife conservation while protecting access to public lands. Applications are accepted quarterly from nonprofit organizations and community groups focused on land stewardship and access improvements, ensuring a safe and sustainable outdoor experience for all.

The Chi-Cal Rivers Fund Grant, administered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, aims to enhance the waterways of the Chicago and Calumet region. This initiative focuses on reducing stormwater runoff through nature-based infrastructure, improving fish and wildlife habitats, and promoting community engagement. The program supports projects under three main categories: habitat quality improvement, stormwater solution expansion, and activation of restored natural areas, encouraging strategic investments for ecological resilience.

The Mineral Point Excellence in Education Fund, established in 2016, is dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities within the Mineral Point School District. Managed by a local advisory board, this fund supports programming beyond the school's budget, ensuring students receive quality education. The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin oversees this initiative, emphasizing community investment in education for future generations. Contributions to this fund empower innovative educational experiences that are not typically covered by tax dollars.

The Monroe Excellence in Education Fund, managed by The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, provides vital support to the Monroe School District. With over 700 charitable funds totaling more than $50 million, the foundation enhances the quality of life across nine counties in Southern Wisconsin. This fund plays a crucial role in funding educational programs that are not typically covered by tax revenue, ensuring that students receive a high-quality education for future success.

The North Crawford Excellence in Education Fund, managed by The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, aims to enhance educational opportunities in Southern Wisconsin. This fund supports innovative projects and scholarships, ensuring that students can access quality education and resources not typically funded by tax dollars. By fostering community investment in education, the fund helps prepare students for future success and enriches the local community.

The Pecatonica Excellence in Education Fund, established in 2010, is an endowment fund managed by the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin. It provides vital resources to support the Pecatonica Area Schools, enhancing educational programs and recognizing student achievements. Grants are awarded annually to fund projects that fall outside the district's budget, ensuring that students receive innovative and quality educational opportunities. This initiative strengthens educational programming not typically covered by tax dollars.

The Robert G. Campbell Community Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, is an unrestricted endowment dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Iowa County, WI. Focused on supporting seniors, it funds projects that provide recreational opportunities, quality of life improvements, and community events honoring senior contributions. Annually, a portion of the fund's earnings is allocated to grants for the elderly, historic preservation, the arts, the environment, and education, fostering community enrichment.

The New Glarus Excellence in Education Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, supports the New Glarus School District with private resources. This endowment fund enhances educational opportunities beyond the standard budget, ensuring quality education for current and future students. Donations are welcome year-round and are tax-deductible, making a meaningful impact on the community. Grants are awarded annually for special projects that enrich the learning environment.

The Ruth Abernathy Presidential Scholarship is awarded annually by SHAPE America to honor outstanding undergraduate and graduate students in health and physical education. Established in 1995, this scholarship supports three undergraduate and two graduate recipients. Candidates must be SHAPE America members, majoring in relevant fields, and demonstrate academic excellence and leadership. In addition to financial support, recipients receive a three-year membership to SHAPE America, fostering a commitment to health education and physical activity.

The Monticello Excellence in Education Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, supports the Monticello School District through grants awarded annually. This endowment fund enhances educational opportunities by providing resources for programs not typically covered by public funding. Donations are welcome year-round and are tax-deductible, making them a meaningful way to invest in the future of education in Southern Wisconsin.

The Iowa-Grant Educational Foundation Fund (IGEF) supports the Iowa-Grant School District by providing grants for innovative educational programming and scholarships for graduating seniors. Established in 1999 and affiliated with the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, IGEF relies on community donations to enhance educational opportunities beyond the standard budget. Their volunteer board oversees fundraising and grant allocation, ensuring a lasting impact on students and the community in Southern Wisconsin.

The Marshfield Area Affiliate Grantmaking Program, managed by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, aims to enhance the quality of life in the Marshfield region. Grants of up to $3,000 are available for projects in education, arts, economic development, and more. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations serving the area. The program encourages community leadership and thoughtful grantmaking to support diverse initiatives that improve local welfare.

The Adapted PE/Activity Program of the Year Award recognizes outstanding community-based initiatives aimed at enhancing the physical capabilities of individuals with disabilities. Organized by SHAPE America, this award highlights programs that provide inclusive physical education and recreational opportunities, ensuring that all participants can engage in healthy, active lifestyles. By showcasing best practices, the award promotes innovation and advocacy for individuals with disabilities, fostering an environment of inclusion and support in physical activity.

The SHAPE America: Joy of Effort Award recognizes dedicated individuals who exemplify the spirit of commitment and passion in health and physical education. Awardees are current SHAPE America members with at least three years of membership, demonstrating excellence in teaching, coaching, or leadership. This prestigious award celebrates those who have made significant contributions to the field, inspiring others to lead healthy, active lives through their efforts in education and advocacy.

The AnnMarie Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations in Wisconsin that were home to Phillips Plastics Corporation employees. It prioritizes educational, humanitarian, cultural, and recreational activities, providing monetary awards and scholarships. Eligible applicants must demonstrate 501(c)(3) status or have a fiscal agent. The foundation favors projects that engage students in STEM and prefers requests for durable items. Funding excludes consumables, ongoing fees, and political or religious purposes.

The Ruth Abernathy Presidential Scholarship, established by SHAPE America, honors outstanding graduate students in health and physical education. Awarded annually since 1995, it recognizes two graduate recipients based on academic excellence and leadership. Along with financial support, winners receive a three-year SHAPE America membership, enhancing their professional network. This scholarship underscores the organization's commitment to advancing health education and supporting future leaders in the field.

The SHAPE America Major of the Year Award recognizes exemplary undergraduate students in health, physical education, recreation, and dance. This prestigious accolade aims to highlight nominees who demonstrate academic excellence and commitment to service within their communities. Faculty members from colleges and universities are encouraged to nominate one outstanding student per major, ensuring that the next generation of health educators is celebrated for their achievements and contributions to the field.

The Hillsboro Excellence in Education Fund, established in 2012, provides essential support for educational programming outside the Hillsboro School District's budget. Managed by a local advisory board, this fund enhances educational opportunities for students in the district. It serves as a critical resource, enabling innovative programming that isn't typically covered by tax dollars, thus investing in the future of Southern Wisconsin's youth.

The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin's Community Impact Fund provides grants up to $10,000 for impactful projects in nine counties. Focused on sustainability, it supports nonprofit organizations, schools, and government agencies in enhancing community services, expanding programs, and addressing systemic challenges. The fund aims to create lasting change by funding projects that exceed local resource capacities and encourage collaboration among communities.

The Black Hawk Excellence in Education Fund, part of the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, enhances educational programming beyond the Belmont school district budget. It addresses state funding cuts, empowering teachers and students to innovate in teaching and learning. By investing in this fund, donors support quality education and ensure resources for programs typically not covered by tax dollars, benefiting current and future generations in Southern Wisconsin.

The Parkview Community Fund, established in 2024 by The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, aims to enhance community life in the Parkview School District area. It serves local residents, donors, and businesses, facilitating charitable contributions that are tax-deductible. The Fund supports various initiatives, including education, health care, and community development, by awarding grants annually based on its earnings. This initiative strengthens local engagement and promotes sustainable development in Southern Wisconsin.

The Community Foundation of Chippewa County offers the Northwestern Bank Mini Grant to support innovative educational projects for 3rd to 8th grade teachers in Chippewa County. This initiative aims to foster creativity and motivation among students through diverse learning activities. By pooling resources and encouraging multigenerational giving, the foundation seeks to enhance the educational landscape and provide lasting benefits to the community. The grants reflect a commitment to nurturing the next generation of learners.

The Three Lakes Community Foundation, established in 2013, provides Short Form Grants under $1000 to support local innovative projects. These grants aim to enhance community quality of life, support education, arts, and community development, and foster collaboration among local nonprofits. Eligible applicants include local nonprofits, schools, and government entities. The Foundation prioritizes projects that promote community efficiency and distinguish Three Lakes from other areas, ensuring the longevity and vibrancy of the community.

The Three Lakes Community Foundation, established in 2013, supports initiatives that enhance community life in Three Lakes. With over $120,000 in grants awarded, the foundation aims to foster partnerships among local nonprofits and enhance services in education, health, and the arts. They invite grant requests from organized groups, ensuring a focus on projects that benefit the public and uphold community values. The foundation prioritizes innovative ideas that differentiate Three Lakes from other communities.

The J.M. Heberlig/B.J. Helterbran Scholarship Fund, established by dedicated educators, supports Pennsylvania residents pursuing degrees in Art Education or Recreation & Parks. This scholarship aims to alleviate the financial burden on students entering their second, third, or fourth year at a 4-year institution. With a focus on academic achievement, a minimum GPA of 2.8 overall and 3.0 in the major is required, alongside a demonstrated commitment to education and community service.

About

Created by the community for the good of the community, the GLCCF is here to turn problems into opportunities through strategic grant making and initiatives created to address our region’s most pressing needs. We work with you to identify your charitable goals, and we ensure that they are carried out efficiently.

Work with us to make the kind of impact you want to see in your community. Let us take on the financial complexities and paperwork, while you focus on the important things like fostering good works throughout our community.

When you give to the Greater Lake City Community Foundation, you are making an investment that will benefit the community, now and in the future.

GLCCF Schreck Family Soccer Scholarship

To award annually a scholarship to a qualified applicant who intends to pursue education toward a 4-year college degree.

The Marshfield Area Community Foundation provides Community Grants to support various projects in education, arts, culture, healthcare, and social services within its service area. These grants are awarded annually through a competitive process and aim to address the evolving charitable needs of the community. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and other IRS-approved entities. The Foundation is committed to connecting caring individuals with impactful causes to enhance the quality of life in Marshfield.