Strengthening Civics Education in Appalachian Ohio Grant

The Foundation for Appalachian Ohio (FAO), in partnership with the Longaberger Family Foundation, offers the "Strengthening Civics Education in Appalachian Ohio" grant program to advance civics education across K–12 public schools in the 32 counties of Appalachian Ohio. Rooted in a broader vision to promote well-being and opportunity throughout the region, FAO supports educational initiatives that cultivate youth leadership and engagement. Since 2019, more than $135,000 in grant funding has been distributed through this program, fostering student-led projects that empower young people to better understand and participate in their communities. This grant is designed to support projects that provide meaningful civic learning opportunities to students. Examples of past initiatives include student-produced podcasts highlighting local civic leaders, participation in programs like Model United Nations and Youth in Government, and fellowship programs placing students in government offices. The program also welcomes proposals that commemorate the United States’ 250th anniversary and celebrate Appalachian Ohio’s contributions to national history. These projects aim to foster a deeper understanding of the structures and functions of government, as well as the roles individuals play in civic life. Applicants must be public or nonprofit organizations serving K–12 students within Appalachian Ohio. Public schools, educators, and students themselves are eligible to apply, with the program encouraging youth participation—even leadership—in the application process, provided it occurs in collaboration with a sponsoring adult or organization. While not explicitly required, the inclusion of students in application development aligns with the funders’ emphasis on community-based, student-centered learning experiences. For the 2026 grant cycle, at least $40,000 in funding is available. Applicants may request between $500 and $10,000 based on the scope and impact of their proposed projects. Grant awards will be evaluated based on their potential for educational impact, alignment with civic learning goals, and their ability to engage students meaningfully. There are no indications of required cost sharing or matching contributions. Performance periods and reporting requirements are not detailed, but projects are expected to be delivered within a reasonable academic timeframe. Applications must be submitted electronically through the FAO’s Foundation Cloud Community Portal, accessible via the organization’s official website. New users must register an account, while returning applicants may log in using existing credentials. The application period opens on February 17, 2026, and closes on March 31, 2026. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. There are no pre-application steps such as Letters of Intent or Concept Papers required for this grant cycle. For questions or assistance, applicants may contact the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio via email at [email protected] or call 740-753-1111. Additional information, including a Frequently Asked Questions page and the full request for proposals, is available on the FAO website. The Foundation’s efforts through this grant program fall under its Education Pillar of Prosperity, emphasizing the vital role that education plays in strengthening Appalachian Ohio’s future.