Ohio Living Lifelong Learning Fund

The Ohio Living Lifelong Learning Fund is a grant opportunity administered through the Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley. The Foundation operates a diverse set of philanthropic programs aimed at addressing community needs in the Mahoning Valley region. This specific fund is dedicated to enriching the lives of seniors in Mahoning County, Ohio, by supporting educational programs and initiatives that foster lifelong learning among older adults. The purpose of the Ohio Living Lifelong Learning Fund is to promote intellectual engagement, personal development, and social participation among the senior population. Grant funds are intended for projects that deliver structured learning experiences tailored to the needs of aging residents. Awards range from $500 to $1,500 per grant, allowing organizations to implement or expand initiatives that educate, empower, and connect seniors through a wide range of topics and formats. Funding may be used for materials, program delivery, outreach, and other relevant expenses that support senior education. Applicants must submit their proposals through the Foundation’s online grant portal. The Community Foundation follows a quarterly grant cycle for many of its funding programs, with the Ohio Living Lifelong Learning Fund application for the fourth quarter open until October 15, 2025. All applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on the due date. Late or incomplete applications will not be reviewed during the current cycle but may be held over for consideration in the next cycle. Applicants are advised to allow enough time to complete all requirements and upload all supporting documentation before the deadline. Eligible applicants include organizations that are recognized as public charities under IRS Section 501(c)(3), as well as schools, religious institutions, government entities, and other organizations operating as not-for-profit bodies. Applicants that do not meet these criteria may still apply if partnered with an eligible fiscal sponsor. Importantly, all proposed activities must directly benefit seniors in Mahoning County. The Foundation does not typically support retroactive funding or projects designed to influence political campaigns. Successful applicants will be required to sign a grant agreement prior to receiving funds and must submit a final grant report within 12 months of award disbursement. This report is a prerequisite for eligibility in future grant cycles. For assistance with the application process or the updated grant portal interface (revised in August 2025), applicants are encouraged to access the tutorials and resources available on the Foundation’s website. The Foundation does not list a specific point of contact for this opportunity, but general guidance can be found in its Grantseeker’s Guide. This guide outlines key procedures, eligibility standards, and compliance expectations including adherence to a strict nondiscrimination policy. Applications are reviewed after the deadline, and award announcements are made thereafter. There is no indication of pre-application requirements such as letters of intent. The grant is offered annually and is expected to open again in August or September 2026 based on the current cycle.

The Foundation advises timely submission and review of updated applicant portal and grant tutorials