Wisconsin Recreation Grants

The 2024-2025 Sparks Grant Program, initiated by the Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities (WBPDD), is designed to foster greater social connections and community inclusion for individuals with disabilities. This program directly aligns with the foundation's mission to enhance the lives of people with developmental disabilities by promoting their participation in inclusive and meaningful community activities. The grants, ranging from $500 to $5,000, aim to support initiatives that break down barriers and improve societal attitudes towards people with disabilities. The primary target beneficiaries of the Sparks Grant Program are individuals with disabilities, their families, and community groups or organizations that are committed to fostering inclusion but may lack the knowledge or resources to do so effectively. Traditionally underserved groups, including faith-based, civic, and nonprofit organizations, school districts, municipalities, family groups, and individuals with strong community connections, are especially encouraged to apply. The program seeks to empower these groups to create more accessible and welcoming environments. The program's key priorities and focuses are multifaceted. It emphasizes increasing social connections for people with disabilities, educating individuals and organizations on implementing inclusive programming, and encouraging community members to engage with and improve their attitudes toward people with disabilities. Examples of fund usage include making school extracurriculars accessible, hosting community conversations on inclusion, and implementing innovative ways to make families with children with disabilities feel welcome in faith communities. The expected outcomes and measurable results include an increase in inclusive community activities, a greater understanding among organizations and individuals of how to offer inclusive programming, and improved attitudes within communities toward people with disabilities. While specific quantitative metrics are not detailed, the focus is on tangible improvements in accessibility, participation, and societal acceptance. The grant duration is one year, allowing for focused efforts and demonstrable progress within that timeframe. The WBPDD's strategic priorities, as reflected in this grant, revolve around a theory of change that posits that by providing targeted funding and encouragement, communities can be transformed into more inclusive spaces. This involves not only direct support for individuals with disabilities but also empowering the broader community to actively participate in creating an inclusive environment. The program encourages innovative approaches and aims to build a network of inclusive practices across all counties in Wisconsin.

This grant provides financial support for organizations and individuals to promote tourism-related events in Johnson Creek that encourage overnight stays, through marketing initiatives and advertising efforts.

The Greater Milwaukee Foundation offers grants to 501(c) (3) nonprofit organizations in the greater West Bend area, Wisconsin, prioritizing projects in arts and culture, education, family, youth, elderly, health and human services, community development, and historic preservation, with an application deadline of 10/07/2024.

The Robert & Patricia Endries Family Foundation seeks applications to benefit people in need in the Brillion area of Wisconsin. The foundation's mission aligns with supporting the vitality of the Brillion area and assisting disadvantaged individuals within the community. This grant program is designed to create a positive impact by addressing various critical needs, ensuring that residents have access to essential services and opportunities for well-being. The foundation prioritizes supporting the disadvantaged, specifically targeting the disabled, homeless, low-income individuals, single parents, troubled youth, and those suffering from chronic or mental illnesses. Additionally, it focuses on health and human services, including support for diabetes, cancer, cerebral palsy, Alzheimer’s disease, kidney disease, and mental health. Religious causes with a spiritual purpose and sports or arts programming and sponsorships are also key areas of focus. The foundation's strategic priorities include supporting capital campaigns, particularly for "bricks and mortar" projects, and encouraging matching or challenge gifts to motivate additional giving. While not explicitly stated as "theory of change," the foundation's preference to support national organizations through local chapters serving Brillion residents indicates a strategy to leverage broader resources for local impact. Gifts are directed to specific programs or opportunities, rather than general operations, ensuring targeted impact. Expected outcomes include improved health outcomes for those with specific illnesses, enhanced quality of life for disadvantaged groups, and strengthened community vitality in Brillion through various programs. While specific measurable results are not detailed, the focus on direct program support suggests that successful applications will demonstrate clear objectives and the potential for positive, tangible changes within the community. The foundation's emphasis on local impact and specific areas of need demonstrates a clear, albeit implicit, theory of change centered on direct community investment and collaboration.

This program provides funding to nonprofit organizations and schools in low- to moderate-income neighborhoods for improving local football fields, ensuring safe and accessible play spaces for community youth.

This funding opportunity supports non-profit organizations, school districts, and local government agencies in Crawford County, Wisconsin, to implement projects that promote economic development in the area.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations, government entities, and educational institutions to support community improvement projects that enhance the quality of life for residents in Somerset, Wisconsin.

This funding program provides financial support to event organizers in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, to create initiatives that attract overnight visitors and boost local tourism.

This grant provides financial assistance to property and business owners in Downtown Fond du Lac to enhance safety through the installation of surveillance cameras and emergency access lock boxes.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations and partners for marketing projects that attract out-of-town visitors to special events in Janesville, Wisconsin, boosting local tourism and economic growth.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations, government entities, tribal governments, and educational institutions in the Chicago and Calumet region to implement conservation projects that improve waterways, enhance natural habitats, and engage communities.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in Wisconsin that deliver essential services and support to individuals with disabilities, focusing on areas such as housing, education, transportation, and assistive devices.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations serving the Portage School District area, focusing on projects that enhance community life through civic, cultural, educational, and recreational initiatives.

This grant provides funding to empower community leaders who have experienced forced displacement, supporting innovative projects that foster collaboration and integration between refugees and local communities in select U.S. states.

This program provides financial assistance to local governments, nonprofit organizations, and tribal bodies in Wisconsin for developing and maintaining recreational trails and related facilities.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to local organizations, schools, and tribes in Wisconsin to develop and implement programs that promote safe and ethical hunting practices, particularly targeting adults, women, and families.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in the greater Wausau area and Marathon County, Wisconsin, to enhance local parks and recreational activities.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations, schools, and government entities in specific Minnesota and Wisconsin communities to enhance youth education and promote health and fitness initiatives.

This program provides financial assistance to local governments, tribes, and federal agencies in Wisconsin for the development, maintenance, and rehabilitation of ATV and UTV trails to promote safe and sustainable off-road recreation.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations in Racine to host events that attract visitors from outside the area, encouraging overnight stays and showcasing the city's culture and attractions.