Private Recreation Grants

The Community Foundation of South Alabama (CFSA) offers competitive program grants to local nonprofits in Mobile, Baldwin, Escambia, Monroe, Conecuh, Choctaw, Clarke, and Washington Counties, Alabama. These grants are funded through the Foundation’s unrestricted and field of interest funds, established by donors to address critical community needs. The program aligns with CFSA's mission to support sustainable initiatives that produce meaningful results on community priorities. For 2024, the Foundation is exclusively awarding one-year program grants, focusing on specific projects that benefit the community and demonstrate potential for efficacy and sustainability. CFSA's grant-making is strategically guided by six key focus areas: Family, Education, Work, Racial Equity, Arts and Culture, and Mental and Behavioral Health, all within its eight-county footprint. For 2024, the Foundation has defined six specific priorities for grant applications. These include promoting parenting education; expanding opportunities for young people to secure well-paying jobs through workforce training; increasing access to preschool education and youth extracurricular activities; advancing racial equity with a focus on underprivileged youth; increasing youth access to equitable, high-quality arts and culture; and providing mental and behavioral supports for individuals and families. The target beneficiaries are individuals and families within the eight-county region, particularly underprivileged youth, who will directly benefit from these programs. The expected outcomes and measurable results revolve around the successful implementation of projects that address the stated priorities. CFSA seeks to support programs that can demonstrate a positive impact on community priorities and needs. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed for each priority, the emphasis on "meaningful results" and "efficacy and sustainability" suggests that applicants will need to articulate their intended outcomes and how they will measure success. For instance, programs focusing on workforce training would aim for increased job placement rates, while those on preschool education would look at improved school readiness. The Foundation's theory of change is implicitly rooted in the belief that by funding targeted programs within its six focus areas, it can create a ripple effect of positive change across the eight-county region. By supporting initiatives that promote parenting education, workforce development, early childhood education, youth engagement in arts and culture, racial equity, and mental health, CFSA aims to foster a more resilient, equitable, and thriving community. The preference for programs not exceeding 50% of their total budget also indicates a strategic priority for diversified funding and community buy-in, ensuring broader impact and sustainability beyond CFSA's initial investment. Grant amounts range from $5,000 to $15,000, with requests not to exceed $15,000.

This grant provides financial assistance for transportation to local baseball and hockey games for accredited schools and nonprofit organizations in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan that demonstrate a need.

This program recognizes and honors influential leaders in Colorado's agriculture industry who have made significant contributions to various agricultural fields and community involvement.

This grant provides financial support to artists in Franklin County, Ohio, for creating public exterior murals, requiring a secured location and partial funding from a commissioning organization.

Texas Pride Impact Funds (TPIF) has opened applications for its 2024 Community Grants, designed to strengthen the capacity and resilience of LGBTQ+ communities across the state of Texas. The program reflects TPIF’s mission to advance equity and justice for LGBTQ+ individuals through strategic investments in community-driven initiatives. By focusing its funding on historically marginalized and underserved populations, TPIF aims to foster sustainable progress on both immediate needs and systemic barriers impacting LGBTQ+ people, particularly those facing multiple, intersecting forms of discrimination. The Community Grants program provides flexible general operating support to nonprofit organizations, empowering them to deploy resources where they are most needed to drive transformational change. The grant program is guided by a deliberate focus on key communities and populations. TPIF places strong emphasis on supporting the safety, health, and rights of people of transgender experience, recognizing that this group faces disproportionate discrimination, violence, and systemic exclusion. Additionally, TPIF seeks to strengthen organizations serving LGBTQ+ individuals in under-resourced geographic areas, including rural regions, border communities, small towns, and underserved urban neighborhoods. This intentional geographic targeting ensures that funding reaches communities often left out of mainstream philanthropy, thereby addressing gaps in access to resources, advocacy, and essential services. The program’s target beneficiaries also include LGBTQ+ communities of color, such as Black and African American, Native and Indigenous Peoples, Hispanic/Latinx, and APIDA communities. TPIF’s theory of change acknowledges that race, ethnicity, gender identity, and sexual orientation intersect to create compounded barriers to equity. By channeling resources to organizations led by and serving these communities, TPIF aims to correct historical underinvestment and support culturally grounded solutions. The grant program further recognizes specific age-related challenges, supporting both LGBTQ+ seniors and elderly people as well as youth and young adults facing homelessness, family rejection, or other forms of displacement. Strategically, TPIF’s funding priorities are centered on equity, inclusion, and systemic transformation. Beyond supporting identity-based communities, the foundation also emphasizes the needs of displaced LGBTQ+ people—including immigrants, refugees, undocumented individuals, formerly incarcerated persons, and homeless youth. TPIF also prioritizes organizations working with people living with or at high risk for HIV/AIDS, as well as people with disabilities. By integrating these focus areas, TPIF aims to fund programs that not only provide direct services but also challenge structural inequities through advocacy, empowerment, and community capacity-building. The expected outcomes of the Community Grants program are both immediate and long-term. In the short term, TPIF anticipates increased organizational capacity, expanded access to services, and improved well-being for LGBTQ+ individuals across Texas. Over the long term, TPIF envisions a stronger, more equitable LGBTQ+ movement that includes rural, border, and BIPOC communities as central actors in shaping social change. Success metrics may include the number of organizations strengthened, the reach of community services provided, improved safety and health indicators, and the advancement of inclusive policies and practices. TPIF’s strategic priorities and theory of change emphasize that sustainable equity is achieved when those most affected by inequities lead the solutions. By providing unrestricted general operating support, TPIF removes barriers that often limit the flexibility of community organizations, allowing them to respond nimbly to evolving community needs. In doing so, the foundation is not merely funding programs—it is investing in the infrastructure of justice and the leadership of communities that have historically been underfunded, ensuring that progress for LGBTQ+ Texans is both inclusive and enduring.

This grant provides funding to Colorado artists, activists, and organizations to implement projects that use the arts to promote social justice and improve community welfare.

The New England Area Community Foundation (NECF), an affiliate of the North Dakota Community Foundation, is seeking applications to enhance community well-being and quality of life. As a nonprofit, tax-exempt corporation under IRS code 501(c)(3), NECF aligns its mission with fostering positive community development within the New England area. The grant program primarily focuses on improving the overall quality of life for residents by supporting initiatives that address critical community needs. The grant program targets a broad range of beneficiaries, including youth, senior citizens, and organizations engaged in leadership and community development. Impact goals include supporting projects and programs that benefit a larger number of residents within the New England community. The foundation prioritizes requests that demonstrate the applicant will seek or has already secured other funding sources, indicating a desire for sustainable and collaboratively supported projects. High-priority areas for funding include organizations serving youth, senior citizens, and those focused on leadership and community development. Projects that can demonstrate a widespread benefit to a greater number of residents are also highly favored. Conversely, requests for multiple-year funding, operating funds, or day-to-day expenses are considered low priority, suggesting the foundation aims to support specific, impactful projects rather than ongoing operational costs. Grants are awarded exclusively to organizations designated as 501(c)(3) nonprofit tax-exempt groups by the IRS or government agencies. Groups without this designation may apply through a fiscal sponsor. All funded organizations must operate within the New England community. Grants to religious organizations are strictly limited to non-denominational activities that serve the entire community, ensuring inclusivity and broad public benefit. Applications are due annually by April 30, with extensions possible at the Advisory Committee's discretion. The committee also retains the right to fund approved requests either fully or partially, based on their assessment of merit and alignment with strategic priorities.

This program provides funding to community organizations in New Jersey to create job opportunities and hands-on environmental experiences for underserved youth aged 16-20, focusing on fostering a diverse green workforce.

The Juneau Arts and Humanities Council, with support from the Juneau Community Foundation, offers Individual Artist Grants to assist experienced artists of exceptional talent in producing original work or advancing their careers. The program invests in local artists across disciplines to strengthen the cultural vitality of Juneau, Alaska. Eligible disciplines include visual arts, creative writing, music, dance, theater, design, and other creative fields. Grants may not exceed 1,000 dollars and support projects taking place from July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. Funds may be used for project costs, materials, professional development, or other expenses directly tied to creating new work or career advancement. Applicants must submit original work samples demonstrating exceptional talent and professional commitment, have been a Juneau resident for the past year, plan to remain in Juneau for the duration of the project, and be current on reporting for any prior awards. Artists who received an Individual Artist Grant in the previous cycle are not eligible in the current cycle. Applications are due May 1, 2024. Additional information is available from the Juneau Arts and Humanities Council.

The Accion Opportunity Fund, in partnership with LegalZoom, the NBA, WNBA, and NBA G-League, has launched a grant program designed to support small business owners and emerging entrepreneurs across the United States. This initiative provides grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, along with free LegalZoom services valued up to $500. Administered by the nonprofit Accion Opportunity Fund, the program's core mission aligns with empowering business owners by offering essential tools and resources for starting and growing their ventures. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and investing in the success of small businesses nationwide. The program targets two primary beneficiary groups: existing small businesses and emerging entrepreneurs. Existing small businesses applying for the $10,000 grant and LegalZoom services must be U.S.-based, have been in operation for at least 3 months, have an annual revenue under $1 million, possess an active business bank account, and not be in an ineligible industry. Those in business for 12 months or more need to provide their most recent business tax return, while those in business for 3 to 12 months require specific formation documents or licenses. Emerging entrepreneurs, seeking LegalZoom services, must also be U.S.-based and either be in operation for less than 3 months or provide a business idea summary. The program's priorities and focuses revolve around encouraging entrepreneurship and providing tangible support to small business owners. This includes offering direct financial assistance through grants, as well as crucial legal and business formation resources via LegalZoom. The initiative aims to provide a "perfect play" for businesses, signifying a holistic approach to support that addresses both financial needs and structural requirements for growth. By focusing on both established and nascent ventures, the program seeks to create a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem. Expected outcomes and measurable results include the successful establishment and growth of small businesses, increased access to legal services for entrepreneurs, and a reduction in the barriers faced by new and existing ventures. While specific quantitative metrics for success beyond the grant distribution are not explicitly detailed, the underlying theory of change suggests that by providing financial capital and legal support, businesses will be better equipped to sustain operations, expand, and contribute to local economies. The program's design, with its clear eligibility criteria, is structured to ensure that resources are directed to businesses poised for positive impact and growth.

This program provides funding to nonprofit organizations in Centre County, Pennsylvania, to support projects that positively impact local youth, focusing on areas like mental health, educational equity, and access to extracurricular activities.

This grant provides over $1 million to local nonprofit organizations in specific Massachusetts counties to support a wide range of community-focused initiatives, including human services, social justice, education, healthcare, and environmental efforts.

This funding opportunity supports non-profit organizations and local entities in implementing community-based public health initiatives that focus on disease prevention and wellness promotion.

The ASC Cultural Organization Support Grants in North Carolina provide financial resources for nonprofit cultural organizations in Mecklenburg County to invest in capacity building opportunities that improve their management, develop audiences, strengthen fundraising, and achieve operating efficiencies. The program aims to support staff and board development at all levels of the organization and encourages a better understanding of environmental culture, history, white supremacist structures, and ways to embody equity in their work.

The Fund for Ravenswood Grant Program is a competitive process through which the Fund for Ravenswood of the Parkersburg Area Community Foundation awards grants twice a year. Eligible applicants are private, nonprofit organizations tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code or public institutions. Programs must be located in or directly benefit residents of Ravenswood. The grants support projects in the fields of Arts and Culture, Education, Health and Human Services, Recreation, Youth and Family Services, and Community and Economic Development. The focus areas include Capital and Equipment Projects, Program Development, Capacity Building, and Operating Support.

The Possibility Grant Program, overseen by the Walter and Elise Haas Fund, is a unique initiative with a core mission to foster a more just and equitable society. This program distinguishes itself by empowering Bay Area Youth (BAY) Community Fellows, who serve as youth advisors, to design and decide the grants. This approach aligns directly with the Fund's strategic priority of uplifting youth and incorporating intergenerational perspectives into its grantmaking. The grants are specifically designed as general operating support, ranging from $100,000 to $500,000, with flexible terms of either one or two years, providing essential financial stability to recipient organizations. The target beneficiaries for the Possibility Grants are primarily small organizations located in Alameda, Contra Costa, San Francisco, San Mateo, or Santa Clara County in California. These organizations must be 501(c)3 entities or fiscally sponsored by one. The impact goals are centered on challenging systems of oppression through various avenues, including cultural education, Black liberation values, community-based care, healing, and art. The program seeks to support organizations that respond to the current domestic and global political climate, demonstrating an active commitment to social change and equity. The Fund prioritizes organizations that are actively working to challenge and dismantle systems of oppression. This includes fostering intergenerational connections to uplift youth, centering collaboration in their work, and seeking a strong intersectional impact. The focus is on entities that embody Black liberation values and utilize cultural education, community-based care, healing, or art as tools for social transformation. These priorities reflect the foundation's theory of change, which posits that by supporting grassroots organizations with these specific focuses, they can contribute to systemic change and the creation of a more equitable society. Expected outcomes include the strengthening of small organizations that are vital to their communities and are at the forefront of social justice efforts. The program aims to enable these organizations to sustain and expand their work in challenging oppression and fostering intergenerational connections. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond the general operating support, the emphasis on organizations actively working to dismantle systems of oppression and seeking intersectional impact suggests a qualitative assessment of their contributions to social equity and the empowerment of marginalized communities. The long-term impact envisioned is a Bay Area where youth are uplifted, collaboration is fostered, and systemic injustices are actively addressed.

This funding opportunity provides $1,000 micro grants to U.S. military veterans who own small businesses with annual revenues under $5 million and between 2 to 100 employees.

The Rural and Underserved Clinical Rotations (RUCR) grant program, authorized by Minnesota Statutes Sec 144.1505, aims to enhance health professional training by funding eligible physician, physician assistant, advanced practice registered nurse, pharmacy, dentistry, dental therapy, and mental health professional programs. The core mission is to augment existing clinical training to include rural and underserved rotations or specialized training experiences like credential or certificate rural tracks. This initiative aligns with a broader strategic priority to improve healthcare access and quality in Minnesota's rural and underserved communities by strengthening the pipeline of healthcare professionals willing and trained to serve in these areas. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are healthcare training programs located in Minnesota, and, by extension, the students enrolled in these programs who will gain critical experience in rural and underserved settings. Ultimately, the program seeks to impact the healthcare landscape of Minnesota by increasing the availability of primary care and mental health services in areas that currently face shortages. The grant's focus is on expanding training opportunities, facilitating recruitment and retention of students and faculty, and connecting students with appropriate clinical training sites. Key priorities and focuses include establishing or expanding rotations and clinical training, supporting recruitment, training, and retention of students and faculty, and facilitating connections between students and clinical training sites, internships, practicums, or externship activities. Emphasis is also placed on travel and lodging for students, faculty, student, and preceptor salaries, incentives, or other financial support, and the development and implementation of cultural competency training. For physician and dentist training, a specific requirement is that expanded training must involve rotations in primary care settings within rural communities. Expected outcomes and measurable results include MDH anticipating awarding $1,500,000 through approximately 4-6 grants, with an estimated award maximum of $400,000 per grant. The grant duration is 1 year, from September 1, 2024, to August 31, 2025. The success of the program will likely be measured by the number of new or expanded rural and underserved rotations established, the number of students participating in these experiences, and the subsequent impact on the availability of healthcare professionals in targeted communities. This reflects a theory of change where targeted investment in training infrastructure and student support will directly lead to a more robust and equitably distributed healthcare workforce.

The United Way of Northern New York (UWNNY) is offering 2025 Community Impact grant funding to local nonprofit human service organizations. The program aims to support outcome-driven, collaborative, and equity-focused community-based organizations. UWNNY's mission is to connect with and provide funding to organizations that strengthen the community's impact. The program is aligned with UWNNY's broader strategic priorities of addressing critical community needs through targeted interventions. The grant specifically targets organizations serving residents of Jefferson, Lewis, and/or St. Lawrence Counties. Priority is given to proposals that focus on underserved and underrepresented populations, address unmet needs, utilize a collaborative approach, and serve individuals or families who are Asset Limited, Income Constrained, and Employed (ALICE) or living in poverty. The program's impact goals are to support programs that align with primary areas of focus: Social Determinants of Health (SDoH), Child/Youth Success, and Economic Stability. The Community Impact Fund has clear priorities and focuses. For Social Determinants of Health, the focus is on interventions addressing access to nutrition, housing, healthcare, literacy/language, education, and transportation. For Child/Youth Success, programming should provide vital supplies and support for academic success, growth, development, and a healthy transition into adulthood. For Economic Stability, the focus is on short- and long-term strategies to help people gain or maintain stability, such as job skills training, soft skills development, and support for those at risk of falling into poverty. Expected outcomes include improved access to essential services, enhanced academic and developmental success for children and youth, and increased economic stability for individuals and families in the targeted counties. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed for each objective, the emphasis on "outcome-driven" organizations suggests a focus on demonstrable impact and progress towards these goals. The theory of change implicit in this grant is that by funding strategic, collaborative, and equity-focused programs in these key areas, UWNNY can contribute to a more resilient and thriving community, particularly for its most vulnerable populations.

This funding opportunity supports projects in Philadelphia County that enhance workforce development, education, and economic growth, particularly for organizations helping individuals overcome employment barriers or assisting small businesses.