John F. Wegman Fund Grant

Established in 1953 by the will of John F. Wegman, the John F. Wegman Fund is a philanthropic resource stewarded by the Rochester Area Community Foundation. Its mission is deeply rooted in addressing community welfare in Rochester and Monroe County, New York. The fund prioritizes charitable, educational, and philanthropic efforts aimed at enhancing the well-being of older adults, promoting character-building among youth, and fostering improved relationships between labor and management. Notably, it is not affiliated with Wegmans stores or the Wegman Family Charitable Foundation. Since 1964, the fund has emphasized supporting innovative or experimental programs for a limited duration, with a focus on small-scale, start-up, and participant-driven projects. The fund’s committee, as outlined in Wegman’s will, includes representatives from diverse faith communities (Jewish, Catholic, Protestant), organized labor, and the United Way of Greater Rochester. This multi-sector approach reflects a commitment to inclusive community representation in funding decisions. The John F. Wegman Fund typically awards grants ranging from $1,500 to $10,000, with a median award of $7,300. These are one-time grants directed toward specific projects with potential for significant community impact, particularly in areas such as transportation for older adults, workplace skill development for youth, and educational initiatives that support intergenerational or cross-sector understanding. The fund explicitly avoids support for general operations, political campaigns, religious activities, capital campaigns, and individual support. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations serving Monroe County. For those who have previously received funding, new requests are considered only if at least 18 months have passed and a final report has been submitted. Limited consideration is given to renewable grants, land acquisition, and staff training. The fund is structured to support novel community solutions, especially those grounded in the needs of beneficiaries. Applications are accepted four times per year, with deadlines in January, May, August, and November. The next submission deadline is 4 p.m. on Friday, November 7, 2025. Applicants can apply through the Community Foundation’s online portal, and questions can be directed to grants@racf.org or 585.341.4374. Notifications follow a structured review and screening process that culminates in decisions being announced approximately three months after the submission deadline. The fund's recurring quarterly cycle and multi-phase review process ensure thoughtful consideration of community needs. Decisions are made by the Advisory Committee, then approved by the Community Foundation’s Board of Directors. Awards are communicated following each cycle: June, August, November, and February, depending on the cycle. This recurring schedule offers applicants multiple opportunities annually to propose impactful, community-oriented projects.

Proposals should focus on small-scale, innovative, and participant-driven programs. Agencies should ensure alignment with one of the fund’s three focus areas and show meaningful community impact.