Youth Grants

The Creative Learning Grant Program, sponsored by the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council (LMCC), is designed to foster the growth and capacity of Manhattan-based teaching artists and small arts organizations. Its core mission aligns with promoting community-based arts education projects for youth, adults, and older adults. The program is funded through a combination of City funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs’ Greater New York Arts Development Fund and State funds from the New York State Council on the Arts’ (NYSCA) Statewide Community Regrants program, indicating a strategic partnership to broaden arts access. The primary beneficiaries are Manhattan's teaching artists and small arts organizations that are unable to directly apply for City and/or State arts funding. The program targets the development of sequential, skill-building arts study and participatory arts projects. The impact goals are to enrich communities through accessible arts education, delivered in local settings such as senior centers, recreation centers, public libraries, and community centers, thereby strengthening the cultural fabric of Manhattan. The program prioritizes organizations and individual artists with a core artistic mission or a history of arts programming, and those based in Manhattan with proof of nonprofit status (for organizations). A key focus is on supporting entities that do not directly apply to LMCC’s Creative Engagement program or for DCLA (GNYADF) or NYSCA (Statewide Community Regrants) funds in another county/borough for the same fiscal year. First-time applicants are required to attend an information session webinar to ensure understanding of the program's guidelines and expectations. Expected outcomes include the successful implementation of high-quality, community-based arts education projects and an increase in the capacity of teaching artists and small arts organizations. Measurable results are demonstrated through the awarding of grants in amounts of $4,000 and $8,000, with projects taking place between January 1 and December 31, 2025. This structured approach ensures a clear project period and defined funding tiers for evaluation. LMCC's strategic priorities, as evidenced by this program, revolve around fostering local arts initiatives and ensuring that arts funding reaches a diverse range of artists and organizations who might otherwise face barriers to direct funding. The theory of change suggests that by empowering these local artists and organizations through financial support and capacity building, there will be a direct positive impact on community engagement with the arts and the overall well-being of Manhattan residents of all ages.

The Entergy Charitable Foundation, in partnership with the NFL Foundation and other key organizations, is spearheading the Super Bowl LIX Legacy Program, "Impact 59 Powered by Entergy." This initiative aims to leave a lasting legacy of philanthropy and economic impact within the Greater New Orleans community, aligning with Entergy's broader mission of community support and development. The program's strategic approach focuses on fostering positive change through collaborative efforts with local nonprofit partners, reflecting a commitment to leveraging significant events like the Super Bowl for long-term community benefit. The primary target beneficiaries of the "Impact 59" grants are underserved populations within ten specific parishes in Louisiana: Orleans, Jefferson, St. Bernard, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, Plaquemines, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, and Washington. The program aims to achieve significant impact in several key areas, including Youth Development, Workforce Training, Education, Health & Wellness, and Equity & Inclusion. The overarching goal is to enhance the quality of life, increase opportunities, and promote a more equitable environment for marginalized individuals and groups within these communities. The program's priorities and focuses are clearly defined. In Youth Development, the emphasis is on mentoring, physical and mental well-being, and engaging youth through sports, health clinics, and specialized training. Workforce Training focuses on increasing employability for underserved populations, including the formerly incarcerated, to secure living wage jobs. Education seeks to improve access to quality education through contemporary learning programs. Health & Wellness aims to enhance access to services for underserved communities, supporting health, nutrition, and food programs. Finally, Equity & Inclusion is dedicated to improving experiences for marginalized individuals and guaranteeing fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all. Expected outcomes include a minimum of $3 million in grants distributed to local nonprofit partners. Grants will range from $25,000 to $250,000, with smaller organizations (under $500,000 annual budget) eligible for $25,000 to $50,000, and larger organizations receiving up to $250,000. Measurable results will stem from the impact of funded programs in addressing the identified focus areas, contributing to a legacy of improved community well-being and economic empowerment. The foundation's theory of change posits that by strategically investing in these critical areas through local nonprofits, they can create a ripple effect of positive societal transformation, ultimately building stronger, more resilient communities in the Greater New Orleans area.

The Douglas County Community Foundation (DCCF) Community Grants program is dedicated to improving the lives of Douglas County, Kansas residents by supporting a wide array of local projects. The foundation aligns its mission with community needs by funding initiatives across various sectors, including arts and culture, animal welfare, children and youth, community development, education, environment, health, housing, and human services. This broad scope reflects the foundation's commitment to fostering a holistic and thriving community within Douglas County. The primary beneficiaries of these grants are the residents of Douglas County, Kansas. The program's impact goals are centered on enhancing the quality of life for these residents through tangible improvements in the supported areas. By investing in diverse projects, DCCF aims to address multiple facets of community well-being, from educational opportunities and environmental conservation to health services and cultural enrichment. DCCF prioritizes requests that are clearly and concisely described, supported by complete and clear income and expense projections, and do not require recurring funding for the same project or purpose. The foundation also favors one-time requests or projects that can reasonably ensure sustainability after the initial DCCF funding is utilized. This strategic focus ensures that grants create lasting positive change and promote self-sufficiency within recipient organizations and their initiatives. Expected outcomes include a measurable improvement in the lives of Douglas County residents within the supported areas. While specific measurable results are not detailed in the provided text, the emphasis on clear project descriptions and sound financial planning suggests an expectation of accountability and demonstrable impact. The foundation's theory of change appears to be rooted in empowering local nonprofit organizations, tribal entities, and local governments to implement projects that directly address community needs and foster long-term positive change. The foundation's strategic priorities are evident in its eligibility criteria and limitations on grantmaking. Proposals must come from 501(c)(3) nonprofits, tribal entities, or local governments, and must benefit Douglas County residents. Organizations must also operate without discrimination. DCCF explicitly does not fund multi-year requests, general operating expenses, individual support, annual campaigns, endowment funds, event sponsorships, fundraising events, religious purposes, lobbying, political activities, or debt retirement. These limitations ensure that the grants are focused on direct project support that aligns with the foundation's mission of community improvement.

The Telluride Foundation's Community Grants Program, open to organizations in Montrose, Ouray, and San Miguel counties in Colorado, offers grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 to support projects in areas such as early childhood development, education, environment, arts and culture, health, human service, and athletics, with a focus on enriching the quality of life of the region's residents, visitors, and workforce.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in Central Louisiana for innovative projects that improve community well-being and address significant local issues.

The City of Chandler is offering mini-grants up to $1,000 for projects that support diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) for youth aged 5-18, prioritizing diversity education in K-12 schools and favoring proposals that address various dimensions of diversity, with eligibility open to teachers, schools, nonprofits, and community groups in Chandler.

The Bothin Foundation Grant Program is designed to support direct service organizations in San Francisco, Marin, Sonoma, and San Mateo counties. The foundation's mission, as evidenced by its grant priorities and eligibility criteria, is to enhance the well-being of disadvantaged children and youth, low-income families with children, and people with disabilities. The program focuses on capital projects, aligning with a strategic priority to make durable, long-lasting investments that directly benefit program participants and improve the infrastructure of critical direct service organizations. The grant program targets organizations serving a significant number of residents in the specified counties, with a particular emphasis on those serving at least 50% disadvantaged children and youth, low-income families, and/or people with disabilities. The foundation's theory of change appears to be that by funding capital projects—such as building renovations, equipment purchases, technology upgrades, and vehicle acquisitions—it can enhance the capacity of direct service organizations to deliver effective services, thereby achieving a positive and lasting impact on their beneficiaries. Key priorities for funding include building construction and renovation (for contracted labor directly associated with the project), equipment and furnishing (especially items used by or benefiting program participants), technology, and vehicles that transport participants. The foundation explicitly states what it does not fund, such as planning for capital projects, staff time for project management, insurance for vehicles, or general operating expenses, which further refines its strategic focus on tangible capital improvements. Successful applications are those that propose capital projects that can be completed within 12 months, represent durable capital investments, and are submitted by direct service organizations meeting the beneficiary criteria. The grants range from $5,000 to $50,000, with a maximum grant size of $50,000. Expected outcomes include improved facilities, enhanced program delivery through new equipment and technology, and better access to services through reliable transportation, all contributing to the foundation’s overarching goal of supporting vulnerable populations in its target regions. The foundation’s strategic priorities are clearly centered on strengthening the physical and operational assets of organizations directly serving those in need.

This grant provides financial and technical support to local governments, academic institutions, and non-profits for projects that improve water quality, restore waterways, enhance climate resilience, and promote environmental stewardship in Maryland.

The Healthy Environment, Healthy Communities Grant Program is a funding initiative by the Chesapeake Bay Trust that supports projects by various organizations to address environmental and public health issues through education, small-scale greening, and large-scale restoration in specific areas affected by wastewater treatment plants and energy companies.

This grant provides funding to non-profits, schools, and government agencies to develop environmental education projects that empower students and communities to protect Chesapeake and coastal ecosystems.

The Possibility Grant Program, overseen by the Walter and Elise Haas Fund, is a unique initiative with a core mission to foster a more just and equitable society. This program distinguishes itself by empowering Bay Area Youth (BAY) Community Fellows, who serve as youth advisors, to design and decide the grants. This approach aligns directly with the Fund's strategic priority of uplifting youth and incorporating intergenerational perspectives into its grantmaking. The grants are specifically designed as general operating support, ranging from $100,000 to $500,000, with flexible terms of either one or two years, providing essential financial stability to recipient organizations. The target beneficiaries for the Possibility Grants are primarily small organizations located in Alameda, Contra Costa, San Francisco, San Mateo, or Santa Clara County in California. These organizations must be 501(c)3 entities or fiscally sponsored by one. The impact goals are centered on challenging systems of oppression through various avenues, including cultural education, Black liberation values, community-based care, healing, and art. The program seeks to support organizations that respond to the current domestic and global political climate, demonstrating an active commitment to social change and equity. The Fund prioritizes organizations that are actively working to challenge and dismantle systems of oppression. This includes fostering intergenerational connections to uplift youth, centering collaboration in their work, and seeking a strong intersectional impact. The focus is on entities that embody Black liberation values and utilize cultural education, community-based care, healing, or art as tools for social transformation. These priorities reflect the foundation's theory of change, which posits that by supporting grassroots organizations with these specific focuses, they can contribute to systemic change and the creation of a more equitable society. Expected outcomes include the strengthening of small organizations that are vital to their communities and are at the forefront of social justice efforts. The program aims to enable these organizations to sustain and expand their work in challenging oppression and fostering intergenerational connections. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond the general operating support, the emphasis on organizations actively working to dismantle systems of oppression and seeking intersectional impact suggests a qualitative assessment of their contributions to social equity and the empowerment of marginalized communities. The long-term impact envisioned is a Bay Area where youth are uplifted, collaboration is fostered, and systemic injustices are actively addressed.

This funding opportunity supports the creation and expansion of community gardens in Prince George’s County to improve food security, promote sustainable practices, and engage local residents.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in Connecticut that create or enhance educational opportunities for children and young adults in local communities.

Impact 59 Powered by Entergy is the Super Bowl LIX Legacy Program, aimed at creating a lasting philanthropic and economic impact in the Greater New Orleans community. This initiative is a collaboration between the NFL Foundation, New Orleans Super Bowl LIX Host Committee, Entergy Charitable Foundation, New Orleans Saints, United Way of Southeast Louisiana, NOLA Coalition, and Ochsner Health. The program will award a minimum of $3 million in grants to local nonprofit organizations. Grants ranging from $25,000 to $250,000 will support projects focused on Youth Development, Workforce Training, Education, Health & Wellness, and Equity & Inclusion. Eligible applicants are nonprofits operating in specified parishes, with grants targeting various community needs. Eligible organizations must have 501c3 or equivalent nonprofit status for at least 24 months prior to application, and must demonstrate financial health through specified financial reports. Applications must be submitted online by August 23, 2024. Organizations can apply for one program grant, and collaborative projects must choose a fiscal agent for submission. The program emphasizes support for organizations with a non-discrimination policy and local schools addressing community-focused needs beyond their typical scope.

This funding opportunity supports community-led gardening projects in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, that focus on environmental sustainability through the use of native plants for stormwater management, pollution reduction, and habitat restoration.

This program provides funding to community groups in Anne Arundel County for tree planting and invasive species removal projects that promote environmental stewardship and improve local ecosystems.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to various organizations to create after-school programs that enhance academic achievement and offer enrichment activities for children in low-income and underperforming schools.

The Mazuma Foundation's grant program is deeply aligned with its mission to partner with non-profit organizations to enhance the quality of life within its field of membership. This includes Jackson, Clay, Platte, Cass, Johnson, and Wyandotte counties in the Kansas City region. The foundation's strategic priority is to effect positive change in these communities through charitable giving, supporting organizations that directly address critical needs and uplift residents. The program targets a broad range of beneficiaries, including individuals and communities served by organizations focused on the arts, financial education, and community development. The impact goals are to foster artistic expression and cultural enrichment, develop financial knowledge and career readiness for youth and adults, and improve the overall living experience in the Kansas City area. The foundation aims for measurable results in these core areas, contributing to a more vibrant, financially literate, and developed community. The grant program focuses on three core areas: The Arts, Financial Education, and Community Development. Within "The Arts," grants support fine or performing arts organizations (e.g., drawing, painting, theatre, orchestra, band, dance) in the Kansas City area. For "Financial Education," the focus is on developing financial knowledge, entrepreneurship, or career development for youth or adults. "Community Development" supports organizations actively working to make Kansas City a better place to live by enhancing the community experience. The expected outcomes are positive changes in the communities served, with specific emphasis on enriching the cultural landscape, empowering individuals through financial literacy, and fostering a stronger sense of community. The Mazuma Foundation's theory of change posits that by investing in these key areas through strategic grants, they can contribute to a sustainable improvement in the quality of life across the Kansas City region. Grant amounts will go up to a maximum of $15,000, and eligible organizations must be registered 501(c)3 non-profits.

This initiative provides funding to organizations that deliver essential health screenings and services to underserved communities of color in Illinois, aiming to reduce health disparities and improve access to care.

This initiative provides funding to organizations that deliver culturally sensitive HIV prevention and care services to at-risk minority populations in Illinois, including men who have sex with men, homeless individuals, and those with histories of mental illness or substance abuse.