The Donald R. Myers Legacy Fund

The Donald R. Myers Legacy Fund to Support Partnership in Appalachian Ohio is an annual grant initiative administered through the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio (FAO). This fund honors the legacy of Donald R. Myers, a champion for community development and collaboration throughout the Appalachian Ohio region. The fund focuses on fostering projects that align with Mr. Myers’ long-standing mission to enhance quality of life across the 32 counties that make up Appalachian Ohio. The core objectives of the program include support for educational initiatives, community leadership, regional networking, and the fulfillment of essential needs. These aims reflect a holistic approach to regional uplift that values partnerships and the coordination of local efforts. Grantees are encouraged to propose programs that reflect these values and produce measurable outcomes in these priority areas. Eligible applicants include nonprofit and public organizations operating within the 32-county Appalachian Ohio service region. Applicants must use FAO’s online grant platform to apply. First-time users are required to register and create an account before beginning the application process. Returning applicants who have used the system since fall 2024 may log in using existing credentials. Once logged in, applicants navigate to the “Available Grants” section to begin the application. For the 2026 cycle, the application window runs from Tuesday, February 3 through Tuesday, March 17. Applications must be submitted by the end of the day on the closing date. While the fund does not require any pre-application documentation such as a letter of intent, applicants are encouraged to thoroughly review the program FAQ for guidance before submitting materials. All technical and programmatic questions can be directed to FAO via phone at 740-753-1111 or email at [email protected]. The program operates on an annual cycle, indicating its recurring nature. While the specific award size and number of awards are not disclosed in the source material, funding is granted each year to support community-based efforts within the designated counties. Notification and award disbursement timelines are not provided, but the structured application window suggests a consistent review and selection process managed by FAO staff and fund advisors.