Grants for Nonprofits - Recreation

This grant provides funding to support a collaborative workforce development program aimed at equipping middle and high school students, particularly young men of color in Fayette County, Kentucky, with essential skills and experiences for high-wage career opportunities.

The RTP is a federal assistance program that provides funds to states for the development and maintenance of recreational trails and related facilities for both motorized and nonmotorized recreational trail uses. Funded through the Fixing America's Surface Transportation (FAST) Act for Federal fiscal years 2016 through 2020, the program supports a broad spectrum of trail activities such as maintenance, restoration, construction, and acquisition of land for recreational trails. The State of Maine participates in the RTP and has designated the Bureau of Parks and Lands to administer the program, focusing on projects that enhance public access, connectivity, and utilization of trails.

The 2025 Social Services Grants, a collaborative effort between the City of Topeka and United Way of Kaw Valley (UWKV), aim to support critical social services for Topeka residents. These grants are funded through a combination of City General Funds and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Funds, reflecting a commitment to addressing the community's most pressing needs. The program's mission aligns with supporting vulnerable populations and enhancing the overall well-being of the city, targeting a broad range of social issues through strategic allocation of resources. The grant program prioritizes several key areas to achieve its impact goals. These include senior citizen neighborhood-based programming (meals, activities, transportation), medical assistance for low-income individuals, programs for at-risk youth, emergency housing and utility assistance, neighborhood and independent living services for persons with severe and persistent mental illness, and support services for non-English-speaking residents. The overarching goal is to stabilize lives, prevent emergencies, and provide essential aid to those in crisis, fostering a more resilient and equitable Topeka. Target beneficiaries for these grants are diverse, encompassing the elderly, children, disabled adults, homeless individuals, low-income families, and non-English-speaking residents residing within Topeka city limits. The grants are designed to support programs that either serve all Topekans or specific groups with specialized needs. Expected outcomes include improved access to vital services, enhanced quality of life for vulnerable populations, and reduced instances of hardship and crisis. Measurable results could include the number of individuals served, the types of services provided, and the demonstrated impact on beneficiaries' well-being. Approximately $492,000 will be available for Social Services Grants in 2025, with individual grant requests ranging from a minimum of $10,000 to a maximum of $27,000. Eligible expenses cover operating costs, staff salaries, and direct service costs such as supplies, transportation, childcare, healthcare, substance abuse services, employment services, recreational services, and facility leases. Emergency income payments for shelter (rent, mortgage, utility) are also eligible, provided they do not exceed two months and are paid directly to the provider. Food, however, is not an allowable expense. The program emphasizes a one-year project and budget period for funded initiatives.

The Eastern Band of Cherokees Community Foundation is offering community grants to qualified charitable organizations serving tribal members in Swain, Jackson, Cherokee, Graham, and Haywood counties of North Carolina. These grants are designed to address a broad range of local needs, including human services, education, youth development, health, food/nutrition, and arts. The foundation's mission, though not explicitly stated as a separate entity from the grant program, aligns with fostering community well-being and supporting essential services within the tribal member communities it serves. The grantmaking strategy focuses on empowering local organizations to deliver impactful programs that directly benefit the identified counties. The target beneficiaries for this grant program are tribal members residing in the specified counties. The overarching impact goal is to meet local needs across a variety of sectors, thereby improving the quality of life and strengthening the communities served. While specific expected outcomes and measurable results are not detailed, the broad range of purposes suggests a desire for tangible improvements in areas such as access to education, enhanced health outcomes, youth engagement, and cultural enrichment. The funding information, which indicates grants typically range from $500 to $1,000, implies that these grants are intended to support smaller-scale, community-led initiatives that can have a direct and immediate impact. The program prioritizes organizations that are 501(c)(3) public charities, those with a fiscal agent who is a 501(c)(3) public charity, local governments (including public schools), and fire and rescue departments. Religious entities may also apply for funding, but only for social outreach and charitable service programs that benefit the community at large, not for general operating support. This focus ensures that the grants are directed towards organizations with a proven commitment to public service and community benefit, while also establishing clear boundaries for religious organizations to maintain a charitable rather than proselytizing focus. A key strategic priority for the foundation is to ensure that funding directly benefits the communities within its affiliate network. Organizations serving multiple counties within the network are even encouraged to submit separate applications for each affiliate, underscoring a commitment to localized impact. Furthermore, a crucial element of the foundation's theory of change is the requirement that organizations offer programs and services without discrimination based on age, race, national origin, ethnicity, gender, physical ability, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or religious belief. This commitment to inclusivity and equitable access ensures that the grant funds serve all eligible tribal members, fostering a more just and supportive community environment.

The LGBTQ Fund at the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham has released its Request for Proposals (RFP) for the 2024 Grant Cycle, aiming to support organizations that strengthen the infrastructure of LGBTQ-led or serving groups, provide services to LGBTQ youth, individuals, and families, and offer educational opportunities highlighting the needs of the LGBTQ community. The fund also seeks to advance collaboration between LGBTQ organizations and other community groups, and support nonprofit partners working on public policy and social justice issues that intersect with LGBTQ concerns. The Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham's mission to enhance the quality of life in the region aligns with the LGBTQ Fund's goals by fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for all community members, particularly those from historically marginalized groups. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are LGBTQ persons, with a particular focus on underserved communities including people of color, youth, seniors, transgender individuals, gender non-binary persons, and those in rural areas. The impact goals are to improve the well-being and equity of these communities through various support systems. Expected outcomes include stronger LGBTQ organizations, increased access to vital services for LGBTQ individuals and families, greater public understanding and acceptance through education, and more effective advocacy for LGBTQ rights and social justice. Measurable results could include the number of organizations supported, the number of individuals served, the reach of educational programs, and the impact of policy initiatives. Priority will be given to proposals that specifically address the needs of demonstrably underserved LGBTQ communities, emphasizing an intersectional approach. This includes programs focusing on inclusive healthcare and mental health services, immigrant advocacy, racial and economic justice, and initiatives promoting faith and acceptance. The typical grant amounts range from $3,000 to $7,000, with the fund also considering general operating expenses if justified in the application. This strategic focus ensures that resources are directed towards areas with the most significant need and potential for transformative impact within the LGBTQ community in Central Alabama. Grants are awarded to non-profit organizations in Central Alabama, specifically in Blount, Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, and Walker counties, that either directly serve the LGBTQ community or are expanding existing programs to be inclusive and affirming of LGBTQ persons. Organizations not currently designated as a 501(c)(3) non-profit are encouraged to apply using a fiscal sponsor. This demonstrates the Foundation's strategic priority of building capacity within the non-profit sector and its theory of change, which posits that by empowering and funding organizations dedicated to LGBTQ issues, they can create a more equitable, supportive, and inclusive Central Alabama for all LGBTQ individuals.

The York County Community Foundation is offering a three-year grant of $100,000 to $500,000 for municipalities, county agencies, school districts, and non-profit organizations in York County, Pennsylvania, to preserve and protect open spaces, natural habitats, and waterways through land acquisition, planning studies, and ordinance assistance, with a focus on public access, recreational opportunities, and natural resource protection.

This funding opportunity supports local artists in Fulton, Montgomery, and Saratoga Counties to create new public art projects that engage and involve their communities.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofits, researchers, local governments, and small businesses in Virginia to enhance recreational fishing through conservation, habitat restoration, and fisheries research.

The Hudson-Ellis Fund, administered by the Blue Grass Community Foundation, is a competitive grantmaking program aimed at supporting tax-exempt, nonprofit organizations in Boyle County, Kentucky. This initiative aligns with the foundation's broader mission of fostering community well-being by channeling the generosity of donors, such as Lottie B. Ellis, into impactful local projects. The fund seeks to address critical community needs, with a particular emphasis on public education and enhancing the quality of life for vulnerable populations within Boyle County. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are youth and adults who are economically disadvantaged, as well as youth and adults with disabilities. The fund's impact goals center on improving the overall quality of life for these individuals through targeted projects and programs. Successful proposals are expected to demonstrate meaningful and sustainable change, directly addressing identified community needs and contributing to a more equitable and supportive environment in Boyle County. The Hudson-Ellis Fund has clear funding priorities. These include public education initiatives and programming specifically designed to benefit economically disadvantaged youth and adults, as well as those with disabilities. The foundation's strategic approach emphasizes community-led solutions that are both effective and long-lasting, reflecting a theory of change that believes in empowering local organizations to drive positive societal outcomes through well-conceived and executed projects. In terms of expected outcomes and measurable results, the fund looks for proposals that can articulate clear objectives and demonstrate how their activities will lead to tangible improvements. While specific measurable results are not detailed in the provided text, the emphasis on "meaningful impact and sustainability" suggests that applicants should be prepared to outline how they will track their progress and demonstrate the positive changes brought about by their programs. Grant requests should not exceed $7,500, with a grant period from September 2024 to June 2025, implying that outcomes should be achievable within this timeframe.

This grant provides funding for trail-related projects, such as construction, maintenance, and safety improvements, to local, state, and federal agencies or qualifying non-profit organizations in Wyoming.

This funding opportunity supports community organizations in western North Carolina to enhance youth mental health and resilience through collaborative, youth-led initiatives, particularly in areas affected by economic distress and natural disasters.

The Recreational Trails Program (RTP), managed by the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) and federally supported, funds the construction and maintenance of motorized and non-motorized recreational trails and related facilities in Arkansas. With an application deadline of May 31, 2024, the program operates on a reimbursement basis, covering 80% of project costs while requiring a 20% non-federal match. Funding priorities include new trail construction and significant maintenance of existing trails, with eligible expenses ranging from new construction to educational materials related to trail use. Grant renewed every year.

This funding opportunity represents the FY25 Arizona Vehicle Theft Task Force Annual Grant, administered by the Arizona Automobile Theft Authority (AATA). The grant is specifically designated for the Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZ DPS) to ensure the continuity and effective administration of the statewide Vehicle Theft Task Force. This financial commitment is central to the AATA's core mission, which is implicitly to combat, reduce, and prevent motor vehicle theft across Arizona by providing annual, dedicated support to the state’s primary coordinating law enforcement effort in this area. The target beneficiaries of this funding are the citizens and vehicle owners of Arizona, who benefit from reduced crime rates and the recovery of stolen property. The ultimate impact goal is a measurable reduction in the incidence of vehicle theft statewide, alongside the disruption of organized theft rings and the successful investigation and prosecution of related criminal activity. The primary priority and focus of this annual funding is the sustained operational capacity of the Vehicle Theft Task Force, ensuring resources are available for administrative overhead, specialized investigations, and cross-jurisdictional collaboration necessary to fulfill its mandate. While specific metrics are not detailed, the expected outcomes are tied to the mandatory reporting requirements. Agencies receiving this grant funding are required to submit monthly or quarterly financial and performance reports through the Ecivis Grant Management System. Measurable results are expected to include key performance indicators such as the number of successful vehicle theft investigations, the total dollar value of recovered property, the number of arrests made by the Task Force, and overall data demonstrating a decline in statewide vehicle theft rates over the funding period. The AATA's strategic priority and underlying theory of change are centered on leveraging stable, annual funding to support a singular, coordinated statewide law enforcement body. The theory posits that the most effective way to address a complex, organized crime issue like vehicle theft is to dedicate resources to the AZ DPS for the administration of a specialized task force, thereby concentrating expertise and authority. The grant applications must receive approval from the AATA Board of Directors on June 21, 2024, after which contracts requiring signature by an authorized grantee representative and the AATA Director will be issued prior to the disbursement of funds.

The Somerset County Tourism Grant Program, funded by GO Laurel Highlands, offers grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 to nonprofit or for-profit businesses in the tourism and hospitality industry in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, for marketing initiatives and visitor center operations aimed at boosting tourism and overnight stays in the region.

This grant provides funding to local governments and non-profit organizations for projects that improve the environment, culture, or community along the Lower Delaware River corridor.

The City of Mukilteo’s Co-Sponsorship Grant process is designed to promote, support, and expand existing and new special events, activities, and programs within the city, as well as to publicize and support economic development initiatives. A key alignment with the city's mission is the support of activities that foster the general health and well-being of the community. This grant primarily functions by waiving facility rental fees for the use of City Facilities, thereby reducing a significant barrier for organizations looking to host beneficial events and programs. The target beneficiaries of this grant program include a broad range of public and private organizations. Specifically, qualifying organizations encompass non-profit volunteer groups, neighborhood groups, educational organizations, public agencies, and chambers of commerce. The ultimate impact goal is to enhance the quality of life for Mukilteo residents through increased access to cultural arts, recreation, youth and adult activities, and improved community safety. Furthermore, the program aims to stimulate economic growth through events and activities that promote job creation and business attraction and retention. The grant program prioritizes projects that are open to the public and offer enhanced opportunities in areas such as culture and arts, recreation, youth or adult activities, and community safety. Another key focus is on projects that promote job growth or promote business attraction and retention within Mukilteo. While the grant is generally open to Mukilteo-based organizations, there are limited exceptions for organizations outside the city that can clearly demonstrate the necessity and direct public benefit of their service to the Mukilteo community. The expected outcomes from this program are multifaceted. By waiving facility rental fees, the City of Mukilteo anticipates an increase in the number and diversity of special events, programs, and activities offered to its residents. Measurable results could include the number of events supported, the estimated attendance at these events, and the reported community engagement. From an economic development perspective, success could be measured by the number of jobs created or retained, and the growth of businesses attributed to grant-supported initiatives. The grant's duration is not specified, but projects must be accomplished by December 31st, 2025, suggesting a focus on near-term impact.

The Olympic Peninsula Visitor Bureau receives funding from room tax revenues generated in unincorporated Clallam County, aimed at promoting and enhancing lodging nights in the region. The grant is designed to support tourism-related projects and events in Clallam County that attract overnight visitors. Grants are awarded with a focus on tourism promotion and marketing, as well as supporting appropriate special events. The available grant funds total $125,000 for 2024, typically not exceeding $7,500 per project/event, with a cap of $15,000 per annum per applicant organization. Grant renewed every year.

The Legacy Foundation of Southeast Arizona is offering Innovative Grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 for one year to tax-exempt organizations and government entities, aiming to fund projects that promote community health and wellness through innovative solutions and collaborations, with a focus on addressing various aspects of community wellbeing and resilience.

The Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority’s Tourism Product Development Fund (TPDF) aims to provide financial assistance for major tourism capital projects. Its core mission is to increase patronage of lodging properties and further economic development within Buncombe County. The fund aligns with the broader goal of fostering sustainable growth and enhancing the region as a desirable destination. The target beneficiaries of the TPDF are non-profit organizations and government entities that develop major tourism capital projects. The impact goals are to create jobs, foster entrepreneurial opportunities, provide amenities for both residents and visitors, and ultimately increase overnight lodging stays in Buncombe County. Projects that directly increase lodging stays or support larger initiatives to do so are evaluated equally. The TPDF prioritizes capital investments, focusing on "brick and mortar" projects. Operational expenses are not considered for funding, though design fees already expended can count towards the required 1-to-1 funding match. Projects must be principally located in Buncombe County, demonstrate the ability to increase lodging patronage, and not solely benefit a single lodging owner or property. Applicants must also have legal control of the property and show how they will achieve a minimum 1-to-1 funding match. Expected outcomes include enhanced financial stability for requesting organizations, successful and sustainable project operations, and effective sales and marketing plans that draw visitation. The TPDF also seeks projects that differentiate the destination through brand alignment, uniqueness, and innovation, and those that promote the local creative sector. Measurable results are assessed by the ratio of overnight lodging generated to funding requested, and the project's ability to create new and incremental room nights, not just pull from existing visitors. Furthermore, the TPDF aligns with BCTDA’s strategic imperatives to deliver balanced recovery and sustainable growth by distributing visitors geographically and seasonally. Projects that encourage safe and responsible travel, and those that support engagement with and appeal to more diverse audiences, receive greater consideration. The overarching theory of change is that strategic capital investments in tourism infrastructure will lead to increased visitor numbers, economic benefits, and a more vibrant community, all while ensuring sustainable and equitable development.

The Air Products Greater Massena Community Fund, administered by the Northern New York Community Foundation, offers financial assistance to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations and local governing bodies. Its primary mission is to enhance the quality of life for residents within the Greater Massena community. This aligns with the foundation's broader goal of supporting community needs, as evidenced by its commitment to programs that benefit areas such as health and wellness, arts and culture, human services, education, families, youth and/or elders, environment and conservation, community development, and recreation. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are residents of the Greater Massena community, particularly those in disadvantaged communities within St. Lawrence and Franklin Counties. The impact goal is to improve various aspects of community life through diverse programs and initiatives. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed for each category, the evaluation process emphasizes the potential impact on the Massena community, especially its support for disadvantaged populations. The grant program's priorities and focuses are broad, encompassing a wide array of community needs. These include, but are not limited to, health and wellness, arts and culture, human services, education, families, youth and/or elders, environment and conservation, community development, and recreation. Each grant request undergoes an evaluation based on its potential impact, the amount of available funding, and the quality of the applicant's planning, leadership, and proposal support. The foundation's strategic priorities and theory of change are centered on fostering positive community development and improving the quality of life through targeted financial support. By providing grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, with an upper limit of $7,500 per application, the fund aims to empower local organizations and governing bodies to address pressing community needs. The deadline for applications is July 31, 2024, indicating a structured approach to funding cycles. More information can be found by visiting the Northern New York Community Foundation.