John F. Wegman Fund Grant

The John F. Wegman Fund, administered by the Rochester Area Community Foundation, supports charitable, philanthropic, and educational initiatives that benefit the welfare of the Rochester and Monroe County community. Established in 1953 through the will of John F. Wegman, the fund emphasizes assistance to older adults, character-building opportunities for youth, and improving labor/management relations through educational efforts. Since 1964, the Fund has focused on supporting small-scale, start-up, innovative, and participant-driven programs through one-time grants for specific projects. It is not affiliated with Wegmans stores or the Wegman Family Charitable Foundation. Grants typically range between $1,500 and $10,000, with a median award of $7,300. Funded programs often include affordable health-related transportation for seniors, youth empowerment through workplace skill development, and projects highlighting labor history. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations serving Monroe County, NY. Organizations that have previously received funding must wait 18 months after submitting their final report before reapplying. Funding is focused on programs that are small in scale, participant-driven, and innovative. The Fund does not support annual campaigns, building projects, individuals, political or religious activities, or operating deficits. Limited consideration is given to land acquisition, renewable grants, and staff training. Applications are accepted quarterly with deadlines in January, May, August, and November. The upcoming deadline is 4 p.m. on Friday, May 2, 2025. Applications are reviewed by the John F. Wegman Advisory Committee, which includes representatives from Jewish, Catholic, and Protestant faith communities, the United Way of Greater Rochester, and organized labor. Applicants will be notified following board approval, approximately three months after the submission deadline.