Women’s 5K Grant

The Women’s 5K Classic Grant is administered by the Women’s 5K Classic, a volunteer-run 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in the Lehigh Valley. Since its inception in 1993, the organization has distributed more than $4.2 million in funding to nonprofit programs that support women's health. Their mission centers on the prevention, education, early detection, and support of those affected by breast and gynecologic cancers, while also promoting general fitness among women of all ages. The organization is entirely community-supported, with funding raised through event proceeds and individual donations. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations that operate within the Lehigh Valley and whose missions align with the foundation’s core priorities. These include supporting women diagnosed with breast or gynecologic cancers (such as cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal, or vulvar), delivering educational programs that promote early detection, and developing or expanding fitness programs designed specifically for women. All proposals must ensure that funding remains entirely within the Lehigh Valley region. Applicants are required to be recognized 501(c)(3) entities and must submit proposals using the organization’s official grant application form or an exact copy. Additional requirements include documentation of nonprofit status and detailed explanation of how the grant funds will be used. A mid-year (Partial Year Grant Report) and a final report (Final Grant Report) are required for accountability and assessment purposes. The grant application deadline for this cycle is October 31, 2025. Applications received after the deadline may not be considered. The foundation strongly encourages applicants to review past recipient updates available in the organization’s blog section. These updates provide insight into the types of programs that most resonate with the grant review committee. Previous recipients include programs that provide clinical trial support for ovarian cancer treatments, assistance with compression garments for uninsured women with lymphedema, and emergency financial support during cancer treatment. Funding has also supported screening and diagnostic services for low-income and uninsured women, holistic support programs involving stress management, nutrition, and fitness, and confidence-building fitness programs for girls in elementary and middle school. All questions about the application process should be directed to Sara Glassman. While a phone number or email was not provided in the materials, applicants are encouraged to use the organization’s website for additional contact information or to download application forms and reports. Awards for the current grant cycle are expected to be announced in late fall or early winter, following the close of the October deadline. Grant funds are intended to be spent on local projects that are fully consistent with the Women’s 5K Classic’s mission of empowering women through health, wellness, and cancer-related support initiatives.

Applicants are encouraged to review past recipient blog updates to understand what resonates with the committee.