Recreation Grants

The Ohio Division of Wildlife's "STEP OUTSIDE" grant program is designed to support local government agencies, non-profit organizations, and other family and youth-oriented facilities in promoting outdoor skills such as fishing, hunting, trapping, archery, and shooting sports. This grant aims to fund activities that are unaffordable for the sponsoring agency or organization and is not intended to support existing programs or provide ongoing funding for new programs or activities. Eligible applicants include city, county, and community park and recreation agencies, local and state conservation clubs, and youth-oriented groups such as scouts, 4-H, YMCA/YWCA, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, etc. The program emphasizes that private individuals are not eligible. The application period is ongoing throughout the fiscal year, with applications required to be submitted at least 60 days in advance of the event.

The Sheboygan County Planning & Conservation Department is currently accepting applications for the Sheboygan County Stewardship Fund Grant. This grant aims to foster recreational opportunities and conserve valuable natural resources within Sheboygan County. Applicants can submit projects under three main categories: project development, land acquisition, or discretionary, all subject to case-by-case review. Projects may include land and easement acquisition, development or restoration of parks and trails, protection of water resources, and habitat restoration, among others. Funds awarded by the Stewardship Grant cannot exceed 50% of the total cost of the project or acquisition. The deadline for application submission is May 3, 2024. A matching requirement of 1:1 is necessary for grant consideration.

The Maine Land Protection grant program supports land acquisition or conservation easement projects that foster strong connections between Maine/Wabanaki territory and its land and water. These projects should create or increase permanent access to these natural resources, particularly for marginalized and historically excluded populations. The program encourages applications from Wabanaki tribal governments and similar entities. Projects should involve community support and include future use plans with engagement strategies for maintaining the land. Grant renewed every year. Grant Annual opening/closing deadlines: June 21st to September 16th

Since its inception in 2000, the Diamondbacks Foundation has significantly contributed to youth sports in Arizona through the "Diamonds Back" Youth Field Building Program. This initiative has successfully built or refurbished 42 baseball and softball fields, offering children across the state access to quality playing facilities. The program, in collaboration with the corporate sponsor APS, local businesses, and donations from individual players, equips the fields with new lights, electronic scoreboards, fencing and backstops, as well as updated irrigation systems and field surfaces. The fields' locations are selected via a grant application process. This opportunity aims to enrich youth recreation and sports by providing well-equipped fields for baseball and softball enthusiasts. Grant renewed every year. Grant Annual deadline: July 31st

The Conservation for All grant program is designed to strengthen the bond between the people in Maine and its natural landscapes, focusing on land and water. It aims to ensure equitable access to Maine's outdoors for all, particularly marginalized and historically excluded populations, by addressing physical, economic, and awareness barriers and fostering inclusive participation in program design and implementation. The grant supports projects that facilitate access to outdoor spaces, involve beneficiaries in decision-making, and address the impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities. Grant renewed every year. Grant Annual opening/closing deadlines: June 21st to September 16th

The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) is a federal program administered in Michigan by the Department of Natural Resources on behalf of the National Park Service. It aims to develop public outdoor recreation facilities and offer matching grants to local governments for creating public outdoor recreation areas and facilities. The grant focuses on aligning with the priorities of the 2022-2027 State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, which includes trails, community recreation, green technology, coordination, communication, and universal access. Acquisition of land is not eligible for funding under this grant. Eligible applicants include state agencies and local government units such as cities, villages, townships, counties, and Native American Tribes. The application process is exclusively online via the MiGrants system, and the funding requires a 50% match from the applicant. Grant renewed every year. Grant Annual deadline: April 1st

The Albert and Mary Dick Charitable Trust supports charitable organizations that promote higher education, assist youth, and prevent cruelty to children and animals, with primary emphasis on Victoria County, Texas. The trust’s purpose is to fund programs that benefit the local community across several program areas. Grants support work in education, environment and animals, health, and human services. Typical awards average 7,000 dollars, and the trust’s average total giving per year is approximately 200,000 dollars. Specific project scopes and uses should align with the trust’s focus on youth, education, and humane treatment of children and animals. Eligible applicants are organizations that qualify as tax exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Applications must be submitted through the online grant application form as specified by the trustee. The deadline is May 1, 2024. Grant duration is not stated. Additional information, including application procedures, is available through the trustee’s online portal referenced by Wells Fargo.

The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office administers the Community Forests Program to help communities preserve working forest heritage while balancing economic, environmental, and recreational benefits. The program supports land acquisition and complementary restoration and recreation development to keep working forests intact. Typical projects acquire forestland and may include restoration of forest and habitat health and development of recreation facilities such as trails, trailheads, parking, restrooms, campgrounds, picnic and day use areas, challenge courses, and interpretive displays. Restoration activities may include removal of fish barriers and actions that restore forest health. Approximately 3,000,000 dollars is available for awards. Eligible applicants include cities, counties, and towns, Native American tribes, nonprofit nature conservancy organizations, special purpose districts and other political subdivisions, and state agencies in partnership with one or more of these groups. All projects must include acquisition; restoration and development cannot be stand alone activities. Applications are due May 1, 2024 through the state process. Grant size and duration beyond the available pool are not specified. Further information is provided by the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office.

Through the support of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Urban Indian Health Institute (UIHI) launched a nationwide initiative to not only enhance evidence-based culturally rigorous chronic disease prevention programs but also to enhance public health infrastructure among urban Indian organizations. This initiative aligns with UIHI's mission to serve urban Indian communities by promoting health and preventing chronic diseases through culturally appropriate approaches. The grant program, called Sweetgrass funds, focuses on Indigenous approaches to preventing chronic diseases. The target beneficiaries of this grant are Urban Indian Organizations (UIOs) as defined by the Indian Health Service (Title V programs), members of the National Urban Indian Family Coalition (NUIFC), and not-for-profit urban Indian organizations whose leadership and board are majority urban Indian, and whose mission is to provide public health services to urban Indians. The impact goals are to address and prevent chronic diseases such as obesity, commercial tobacco use, Type 2 Diabetes, and heart disease and stroke within these communities. The program encourages the use of AI/AN traditional, cultural, and regional knowledge in developing and implementing chronic disease education, prevention, and management initiatives. The program prioritizes expanding previous projects related to obesity prevention, commercial tobacco use prevention and cessation promotion, Type 2 Diabetes prevention, and heart disease and stroke prevention. Specific approaches include using cultural or regional adaptations of chronic disease prevention education program components, reclaiming traditional knowledge of nutrition and first foods, promoting access to physical activity and lifestyle modifications, engaging Native youth and elders, addressing perceptions and beliefs, promoting traditional values, and emphasizing community-driven planning for chronic disease prevention and control, such as community needs assessments. Expected outcomes include enhanced evidence-based and culturally rigorous chronic disease prevention programs, improved public health infrastructure among urban Indian organizations, and a reduction in the prevalence of chronic diseases within urban Indian communities. Applicants are required to participate in performance measurement, evaluation activities, and a chronic disease community of practice, which includes annual webinar-based trainings and optional technical assistance services, all coordinated by UIHI. This structured approach ensures measurable results and continuous improvement in addressing chronic diseases with a broad reach across the United States.

The Wichita County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Western Kansas Community Foundation, is a local grantmaker dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Wichita County, Kansas. Its mission is to strengthen community well being by supporting charitable activities carried out by eligible organizations that serve residents of Wichita County. The program seeks proposals that address community issues, stimulate participation, leverage other support, and demonstrate broad impact, innovation, responsiveness to emerging needs, collaboration, and long term sustainability. Grants are intended to improve quality of life across the service area through new initiatives or enhancements to existing programs. Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) public charities or other tax exempt entities and government equivalents such as public schools and city, county, or state entities, including churches for non religious activities, that serve Wichita County, Kansas. The board will not consider requests from individuals or for operating or maintenance expenses including salaries, medical or scholarly research, membership fees, banquets, ticket purchases, religious purposes, travel for groups, capital debt reduction, political lobbying or legislative activity, fiscal agent services, endowments, umbrella funding, marketing tchotchkes, or giveaway prizes or incentives. Applications are submitted through the foundation’s stated process by the deadline of May 1, 2024. Grant size and duration are not stated. Additional information and official details are available from the Wichita County Community Foundation.

The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office administers additional Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program categories to conserve natural areas, critical habitat, riparian corridors, and urban wildlife habitat, and to restore and enhance state lands. The program aims to secure habitat before it is lost and to support restoration where needed. Funding parameters vary by category. Riparian Protection requires a minimum request of 25,000 dollars with no cap. State Lands Restoration and Enhancement requires a minimum of 25,000 dollars and allows up to 1,000,000 dollars for a single site and 500,000 dollars for multi site projects. Urban Wildlife Habitat, Critical Habitat, and Natural Areas follow category rules as published. Eligible work includes land acquisition through perpetual or long term interests and associated incidental costs, development of low impact facilities such as paths, viewing shelters, restrooms, and interpretive elements, and restoration activities such as ecological restoration, shoreline work, fish passage improvements, and native plantings. Some categories allow habitat creation and site stewardship planning. Eligible applicants include cities, counties, towns, federally recognized tribes, nonprofit nature conservancies, special purpose and port districts, and state agencies, as defined per category. Projects are expected to deliver durable conservation outcomes and public benefit consistent with category requirements. Applications are due May 1, 2024 through the state’s process. Grant duration is not stated. Official information is available from the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office.

The Judith Ann Mogan Foundation (JAMF) is offering its 2024 Grant Cycle, featuring two distinct grant programs: a Small Grant Program for requests of $25,000 or less, and a Large Grant Program for requests exceeding $25,000. JAMF's mission is to award grants to qualified organizations in Oregon that implement programs and projects benefiting communities in specific service areas. These service areas include Coastal Douglas County, Coos County, and Curry County, indicating a clear focus on supporting the well-being and development of these particular regions within Oregon. The foundation's overall strategy is rooted in fostering community health, economic development, and cultural enrichment within these designated geographic zones. JAMF primarily targets organizations serving communities within Coastal Douglas County, Coos County, and Curry County in Oregon. The grants are intended to create positive impacts by addressing critical needs within these areas, aligning with the foundation's goal of community betterment. While specific impact goals and measurable results are not explicitly detailed in terms of quantitative outcomes, the focus on various priority areas suggests a desire for broad community improvement. The foundation implicitly aims to improve the quality of life, strengthen local economies, and enhance access to resources for residents in these regions. The foundation's priority areas underscore its strategic focus and theory of change. These areas include Arts & Culture, Children & Youth, Community Health, Convening & Gathering Places, Economic Development, Environment & Natural Resources, and Poverty Alleviation. This multi-faceted approach suggests a theory of change where addressing a range of interconnected social, economic, and environmental factors will lead to holistic community development and resilience. By investing in these diverse areas, JAMF seeks to create a robust and supportive environment for the communities it serves, fostering long-term positive change rather than short-term fixes. Eligible organizations for JAMF grants must be Oregon-based and fall into categories such as 501(c)(3) charitable organizations, publicly supported organizations, governmental units (City, County, Tribal), schools, hospitals, or organizations with a qualified fiscal sponsor. Conversely, the foundation does not support requests related to endowments, individual requests, scholarships, political campaigns, legislative activities, promotion of any religious doctrine, or financing/lending. This clear delineation of eligibility and ineligibility criteria ensures that grants are directed towards initiatives that align with JAMF's strategic priorities and avoid activities that fall outside its philanthropic scope, thereby maximizing the intended impact of its funding.

The Indy Arts Council offers Art for Awareness Grants to support projects that use arts based activities to prevent or create awareness of substance use disorder or addiction in Marion County, Indiana. The program promotes collaborations between artists and subject matter experts and encourages the use of evidence based techniques. Grants range from 5,000 to 65,000 dollars with no match requirement. Priority is given to youth oriented programming and projects that center racial equity. Funds may support artist fees, program delivery, and project costs associated with prevention and awareness efforts rooted in artistic practice and community engagement. Eligible artists must be at least 18 years old, reside in or work predominantly in Marion County, and be able to provide required identification numbers. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status, be Indianapolis based and physically headquartered in Marion County, include artists in their programs, and provide equitable compensation for artistic work. Applications are due May 3, 2024. Additional information is available from the Indy Arts Council.

The 2025 Social Services Grants, a collaborative effort between the City of Topeka and United Way of Kaw Valley (UWKV), aim to support critical social services for Topeka residents. These grants are funded through a combination of City General Funds and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Funds, reflecting a commitment to addressing the community's most pressing needs. The program's mission aligns with supporting vulnerable populations and enhancing the overall well-being of the city, targeting a broad range of social issues through strategic allocation of resources. The grant program prioritizes several key areas to achieve its impact goals. These include senior citizen neighborhood-based programming (meals, activities, transportation), medical assistance for low-income individuals, programs for at-risk youth, emergency housing and utility assistance, neighborhood and independent living services for persons with severe and persistent mental illness, and support services for non-English-speaking residents. The overarching goal is to stabilize lives, prevent emergencies, and provide essential aid to those in crisis, fostering a more resilient and equitable Topeka. Target beneficiaries for these grants are diverse, encompassing the elderly, children, disabled adults, homeless individuals, low-income families, and non-English-speaking residents residing within Topeka city limits. The grants are designed to support programs that either serve all Topekans or specific groups with specialized needs. Expected outcomes include improved access to vital services, enhanced quality of life for vulnerable populations, and reduced instances of hardship and crisis. Measurable results could include the number of individuals served, the types of services provided, and the demonstrated impact on beneficiaries' well-being. Approximately $492,000 will be available for Social Services Grants in 2025, with individual grant requests ranging from a minimum of $10,000 to a maximum of $27,000. Eligible expenses cover operating costs, staff salaries, and direct service costs such as supplies, transportation, childcare, healthcare, substance abuse services, employment services, recreational services, and facility leases. Emergency income payments for shelter (rent, mortgage, utility) are also eligible, provided they do not exceed two months and are paid directly to the provider. Food, however, is not an allowable expense. The program emphasizes a one-year project and budget period for funded initiatives.

The LGBTQ Fund at the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham has released its Request for Proposals (RFP) for the 2024 Grant Cycle, aiming to support organizations that strengthen the infrastructure of LGBTQ-led or serving groups, provide services to LGBTQ youth, individuals, and families, and offer educational opportunities highlighting the needs of the LGBTQ community. The fund also seeks to advance collaboration between LGBTQ organizations and other community groups, and support nonprofit partners working on public policy and social justice issues that intersect with LGBTQ concerns. The Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham's mission to enhance the quality of life in the region aligns with the LGBTQ Fund's goals by fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for all community members, particularly those from historically marginalized groups. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are LGBTQ persons, with a particular focus on underserved communities including people of color, youth, seniors, transgender individuals, gender non-binary persons, and those in rural areas. The impact goals are to improve the well-being and equity of these communities through various support systems. Expected outcomes include stronger LGBTQ organizations, increased access to vital services for LGBTQ individuals and families, greater public understanding and acceptance through education, and more effective advocacy for LGBTQ rights and social justice. Measurable results could include the number of organizations supported, the number of individuals served, the reach of educational programs, and the impact of policy initiatives. Priority will be given to proposals that specifically address the needs of demonstrably underserved LGBTQ communities, emphasizing an intersectional approach. This includes programs focusing on inclusive healthcare and mental health services, immigrant advocacy, racial and economic justice, and initiatives promoting faith and acceptance. The typical grant amounts range from $3,000 to $7,000, with the fund also considering general operating expenses if justified in the application. This strategic focus ensures that resources are directed towards areas with the most significant need and potential for transformative impact within the LGBTQ community in Central Alabama. Grants are awarded to non-profit organizations in Central Alabama, specifically in Blount, Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, and Walker counties, that either directly serve the LGBTQ community or are expanding existing programs to be inclusive and affirming of LGBTQ persons. Organizations not currently designated as a 501(c)(3) non-profit are encouraged to apply using a fiscal sponsor. This demonstrates the Foundation's strategic priority of building capacity within the non-profit sector and its theory of change, which posits that by empowering and funding organizations dedicated to LGBTQ issues, they can create a more equitable, supportive, and inclusive Central Alabama for all LGBTQ individuals.

The New Jersey Department of Agriculture invites applications for the Underserved Farmers Mini Grant, funded through the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service Specialty Crop Block Grant Program and the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021. The program enhances the competitiveness of specialty crops in New Jersey by supporting projects led by underserved farmers, including socially disadvantaged, beginning, and military veteran farmers. Grants of up to 5,000 dollars may support activities such as researching new cultivars, outreach to youth and communities on specialty crops, targeted marketing, personnel, purchase of special purpose equipment, educational workshops, planting specialty crops, and distribution of promotional materials. Projects must conform to USDA AMS guidelines and general terms and conditions. Eligible applicants include qualified businesses and producers, as well as nonprofit and community based organizations developing projects that increase the production, marketing, and research of specialty crops in New Jersey. The grant period runs from June 1, 2024 through September 29, 2025. Applications are due May 3, 2024. Additional information is available from the New Jersey Department of Agriculture.

The Iowa Economic Development Authority, through the Iowa Arts Council, offers the Iowa Screenwriters Grant to support career advancement for Iowa screenwriters. The grant provides professional development resources tied to an active screenplay and aims to elevate the creative screenwriting industry in the state. Applicants may request between 500 and 2,500 dollars for one time project expenses incurred during the funding period from July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. Eligible activities include conference or workshop registration, software or books for screenwriting, classes or apprenticeships, mentorship, and professional feedback on current work. Eligible screenplay formats include feature, short, web series, and episodic works including pilots and new seasons, as well as proof of concept and adaptations. Eligible applicants are individual screenwriters 18 years or older who are full time Iowa residents and who are currently registered in the Produce Iowa Production Directory. Projects must demonstrate clear professional development goals tied to the advancement of an active screenplay. Applications are due May 3, 2024. Additional information is available from the Iowa Economic Development Authority.

The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office administers the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program to acquire recreation and habitat lands and to develop recreation areas for the state’s growing population. The program supports local and state parks, trails, water access, and restoration on state lands to enhance public outdoor recreation. Funding is available across categories such as Local Parks acquisition and development, State Lands development and renovation, and Water Access and Trails in accordance with program rules. Typical projects include buying land for parks, developing athletic complexes, renovating community parks, building regional trails and waterfront facilities, and developing state lands. Local Parks awards may reach 1,000,000 dollars for acquisition or combination projects, with up to 500,000 dollars for development costs, and 500,000 dollars for development only. State Lands development and renovation awards range from 25,000 to 325,000 dollars. Eligible applicants vary by category and include cities, counties, towns, federally recognized tribes, special purpose and port districts, and state agencies as specified in the program guidance. Eligible costs include land acquisition through perpetual or long term interests and a wide range of development features such as buildings, campgrounds, play areas, restrooms, roads and paths, and interpretive elements, subject to category rules. Applications are submitted through the state’s process by May 1, 2024. Grant duration is not stated. Proposals are assessed for alignment with category requirements and public benefit. Official information is available from the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office.

The Rancho Cucamonga Community & Arts Foundation (RCCAAF) offers Community Arts Grants designed to support and enhance arts programs, events, and activities within Rancho Cucamonga. The foundation's mission, though not explicitly stated as a "mission statement," aligns with fostering community engagement and providing accessible arts experiences for residents. The grant program directly serves this purpose by funding initiatives that bring art to the community, thereby enriching the cultural landscape of Rancho Cucamonga. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant program include community-based non-profit organizations, local schools, and individual artists or groups. The overarching impact goal is to provide arts programs, events, and activities that benefit Rancho Cucamonga residents, or anyone seeking arts experiences within the city's borders. This broad scope ensures that a wide range of individuals and groups can access and participate in artistic endeavors. The program prioritizes a variety of arts-related projects. These include one-time arts projects such as murals, art installations, public art contests, and exhibits. It also supports start-up for new arts organizations, clubs, and performance groups, as well as new school-based arts programs that expand student experiences and provide community benefit. Additionally, the grant funds programs, events, or performances available to the public, the purchase of equipment or supplies to enhance arts programs, and community-accessible arts events like festivals. Expected outcomes and measurable results are addressed through the selection criteria, which include evaluating the proposal's project goals and objectives, community need and benefit, future funding to sustain the program, and an estimated project line-item budget. While specific quantitative metrics for "measurable results" are not detailed in the provided text, the emphasis on a project timeline and evaluation method suggests an expectation of tangible progress and successful implementation of funded initiatives. The grant's duration of one year and project period from July 1, 2024, to June 1, 2025, indicate a focus on short-to-medium term impact.

The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office administers the Farmland Preservation Grant program to purchase development rights on farmland so that it remains available for agriculture into the future. The program is part of the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program and was expanded by the Legislature in 2005 to include significant farmland preservation. Funding supports acquisition of conservation easements and related incidental costs, along with eligible enhancement and restoration that improve agricultural viability, and stewardship planning. Typical projects acquire easements on farmland threatened by development. Enhancement and restoration elements may not exceed one half of total acquisition costs including match, and farm stewardship plans may not exceed 10,000 dollars. Eligible applicants include cities, counties, nonprofit nature conservancy corporations or associations, and the State Conservation Commission. Ineligible activities include short term rights under 25 years, acquisition of land already owned by government, property obtained through condemnation, consumable supplies except for a one time application as part of restoration, elements not considered fixtures or capital items, cleanup of illegal activities, indoor facilities, operating or overhead expenses, purchase of maintenance equipment or supplies, restoration conducted before grant agreement, and transfer of development rights. Applications are due May 1, 2024 through the state’s process. Grant limits are not otherwise specified. Further details are available from the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office.