SCF SummerTime Kids Grant Initiative

SummerTime Kids is a competitive grant initiative managed by Stark Community Foundation, a philanthropic organization committed to supporting community-based efforts that enhance quality of life in Stark County, Ohio. The Foundation directs its resources to address a wide range of needs, and through the SummerTime Kids initiative, it invests in imaginative and enriching summer programs for youth. The program is overseen by a volunteer committee in collaboration with Foundation staff, ensuring community-driven guidance and effective oversight. The SummerTime Kids initiative awards grants of up to $2,000 to support youth-focused programs taking place during the summer months. It is designed to enrich the lives of participating children while offering broad benefits to the community. The grant specifically supports programs that challenge youth to grow, build character, and engage in learning. Examples of supported activities include reading and math enrichment, STEM education, arts and cultural experiences, outdoor exploration, and educational field trips. Programs that introduce youth to new experiences, foster creativity, and provide opportunities for personal development are prioritized. Eligibility for this grant is limited to tax-exempt private agencies, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations recognized as public charities, and government entities. All applicants must be located within or directly serve Stark County, Ohio. Notably, multiple applications from the same organization are permissible only if they serve distinct child populations. Preference is given to proposals that address gaps in services such as transportation, nutritious meals, or family support services. The funding guidelines prohibit the use of grant dollars for inflatables or gift cards. For programs involving transportation, applicants must provide proof of insurance. Recipients of SummerTime Kids grants are required to submit an evaluative report at the end of the grant period. This report must detail both the financial use of the funds and the impact of the program, with the understanding that failure to report will affect eligibility for future funding from the Foundation. The grant application process is exclusively online, with submissions accepted through Stark Community Foundation’s Grant Portal. The application period for the 2026 cycle opened on November 24, 2025, and closes on January 16, 2026. Applicants will be notified of award decisions in March 2026 via email. The application does not require a pre-application or letter of intent, streamlining the process for eligible organizations. For questions or technical support, applicants are encouraged to contact the Foundation’s Grants Administrator, Robyn Guedel, via phone at 234-458-2913 or email at [email protected]. The SummerTime Kids grant reflects Stark Community Foundation’s commitment to nurturing youth potential and strengthening the local community through seasonal, high-impact program support.