The Two Rivers Giving Circle Grant is a community-based funding program managed by members from Jefferson, Berkeley, and Morgan counties in West Virginia. It is one of the few local funding sources available to nonprofit organizations working in historic preservation and natural resource conservation within this specific geographic area. The grant supports grassroots efforts that protect local heritage, natural landscapes, and promote sustainable practices.
Grants may be awarded for projects aligned with one or more of the following priority areas: safeguarding habitat and ecosystems such as watersheds and buffer zones; engaging children and youth in nature through education and activism; preserving the historic and cultural landmarks of the Panhandle; improving waste management and promoting recycling; promoting energy conservation and reducing consumption in the community; and expanding local environmental or cultural movements through volunteerism and leadership initiatives.
Eligible applicants include existing nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(13) status, government or quasi-governmental agencies, public schools requesting support for non-tax funded projects, religious organizations applying for non-sectarian charitable purposes, and civic groups applying for charitable causes even if they are not formal nonprofits. Specific financial documentation requirements apply to 501(c)(3) organizations, especially those with annual contributions exceeding $300,000.
Applications are currently open and must be submitted no later than October 3, 2025. Grant sizes typically range from $1,000 to $2,500 and are awarded in a lump sum. As part of the trust-based philanthropy model, award recipients are expected to submit a final report detailing program outcomes and a summary of expenditures by a date specified in their award notification. Grant interviews and site visits may be part of the review process.
All applicants must be in good standing with both the IRS and the West Virginia Secretary of State. Resources are provided to check nonprofit registration and tax status through the IRS, GuideStar, and state portals. Questions regarding eligibility or the grant application can be addressed through the Community Foundation of the Eastern Panhandle, which administers the program.
