Private Recreation Grants

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations in Herkimer and Oneida counties to support programs and services that promote healthy lifestyles and access to resources for older adults.

This contest invites photographers of all skill levels to showcase their images of the Cook County Forest Preserves, with a focus on capturing the area's natural beauty and outdoor activities.

The Early Care Spaces grant program, spearheaded by the Kenneth Rainin Foundation, is an open application initiative offering grants of up to $100,000. Its core mission aligns directly with the foundation's vision of a world where all Oakland children read at or above grade level by third grade. This program specifically targets early language and literacy development for Oakland children from birth to five years old, recognizing the critical window for literacy growth from early care through second grade. The foundation's strategic priority is to support equitable approaches to literacy during these formative years. The program's impact goals are multifaceted, focusing on expanding children's vocabulary and comprehension, increasing confidence in listening and speaking, and empowering parents and caregivers as leaders in their children's education. A key component of the foundation's theory of change is also the career advancement and upskilling for Black early care providers, enabling them to offer language-rich, developmentally appropriate, and culturally affirming care, thereby addressing systemic inequities. Early Care Spaces prioritizes funding for early care provided outside of traditional education systems, such as family resource centers and community spaces, while still welcoming organizations that partner with traditional systems. The program also places a strong emphasis on initiatives with deep connections to informal care providers or Family, Friend and Neighbor care. Furthermore, it seeks to support diverse organizations and providers that truly reflect the neighborhoods and communities they serve, with a particular focus on the Oakland flatlands, areas experiencing disinvestment and displacement of BIPOC communities. The expected outcomes include increased access to high-quality early literacy support for Oakland's youngest children, especially in underserved communities, and the strengthening of the informal care sector. Measurable results would likely include improvements in children's language and literacy skills, increased parental engagement in early education, and enhanced capacity and leadership among Black early care providers. This annual program, commemorating the foundation's 15th anniversary of formal grantmaking, aims to address existing gaps in Oakland's early care funding landscape and contribute to long-term literacy success for all children in the city.

The Porter County Community Foundation seeks to strengthen the community through lasting generosity and leadership by offering grants for humanitarian, cultural, educational, and environmental purposes. While the foundation acknowledges the importance of general operating support for nonprofits, it prioritizes funding requests that build organizational capacity, enhance efficiency, expand successful programming, or foster cooperation and collaboration among organizations for innovative initiatives. This approach aligns with their mission to ensure long-term growth and vitality within the community by strategically investing in projects with clear, impactful goals. The foundation targets organizations serving Porter County, Indiana, with a focus on proposals that demonstrate the potential for significant community benefit. Grants are awarded through an open process, and the committee considers several factors when making difficult choices due to limited funds. These factors include support from sources other than the foundation, evidence of meaningful financial support from the organization's board, the overall financial strength of the organization, and the request's impact on enhancing the organization's capacity to better serve Porter County. Key priorities for funding include initiatives that increase organizational capacity through planning, training, and professional development (excluding recurring annual conferences), as well as projects that enhance efficiency through equipment acquisition and extraordinary expenses difficult to budget for. The foundation also prioritizes expanding successful programming to reach new audiences and facilitating cooperation and collaboration among organizations for new, innovative programming. These focuses aim to foster a stronger, more efficient, and interconnected network of community service providers. Expected outcomes include increased organizational efficiency and sustainability, improved capacity to serve Porter County residents, and the successful expansion of programs to new audiences. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed for each funding area, the foundation's emphasis on "increased efficiency and sustainability" and "capacity to better serve Porter County" implies a focus on quantifiable improvements in service delivery, outreach, and operational effectiveness. The maximum grant amount is $10,000, and the foundation generally does not fund annual appeals, event sponsorships, multi-year grants, sectarian programs, political organizations, endowment campaigns, debt reduction, individuals (except scholarships), completed programs, travel for groups, camp scholarships, or re-granting organizations.

The Richard C. Munroe Foundation Grant Program is currently accepting applications, with a deadline of August 15, 2024. This program, offered by The Richard C. Munroe Foundation, provides grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, although typical grants are between $3,000 and $15,000. The foundation's mission aligns with supporting specific project or capital need expenses, rather than operating expenses, emphasizing a strategic use of limited funds and a preference against guaranteed future participation. The foundation primarily targets small organizations or programs with a minimum of three years of operational history. Beneficiaries include those involved in human services, particularly programs for at-risk youth and the impoverished, as well as arts programs that aid the at-risk population, and environmental initiatives. The foundation aims for the grants to serve as leverage, enabling recipients to successfully solicit funds from larger charitable organizations, thereby maximizing their impact. Geographically, the Richard C. Munroe Foundation prefers to focus on the metro Atlanta area to facilitate monitoring of recipients, unless a board member has specific information regarding an organization requesting a grant outside this area. This strategic focus ensures closer oversight and more effective deployment of resources. The grant's specific focus areas are human services, arts, and environment, all with an underlying goal of aiding vulnerable populations and fostering community well-being. Expected outcomes include the successful completion of specific projects or capital improvements by recipient organizations. While not explicitly detailed as measurable results, the foundation's preference for funding tangible needs suggests an expectation of observable progress and sustained impact within the communities served. By supporting smaller, established organizations, the foundation seeks to empower them to grow and attract further funding, creating a ripple effect of positive change.

The LGBTQ Grant Program, managed by the LGBTQ Fund of Mississippi and held at the Community Foundation for Mississippi, aims to support the LGBTQ Mississippian community. Its core mission is to provide resources for planning, research, and general operations that address the critical needs of LGBTQ individuals, enabling them to live safely, openly, and free from alienation, isolation, prejudice, and discrimination. This aligns with the vision, mission, and beliefs defined by the Advisory Board of The LGBTQ Fund of Mississippi, demonstrating a commitment to fostering a more inclusive and accepting environment within the state. The program primarily targets LGBTQ Mississippians across all counties. Special attention is given to communities that have been historically underserved, including but not limited to communities of color, youth, seniors, and persons in rural communities. The program also focuses on intersectional programs that address faith and acceptance, as well as efforts specifically serving transgender and gender non-conforming persons. The overarching impact goal is to create a positive direct impact on Mississippi’s LGBTQ population, ensuring their safety, well-being, and freedom from discrimination. The program prioritizes proposals that demonstrate a clear commitment to addressing the needs of these underserved LGBTQ communities. This includes initiatives that promote acceptance and understanding, particularly at the intersection of faith and LGBTQ identities. Furthermore, a significant focus is placed on supporting programs and services that cater to transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, acknowledging their unique needs and challenges. Expected outcomes and measurable results are implicitly tied to the program's objectives: reducing alienation, isolation, prejudice, and discrimination among LGBTQ Mississippians, and fostering an environment where they can live safely and openly. While specific quantitative metrics are not detailed, the program's success will likely be measured by the positive direct impact on the LGBTQ population, as demonstrated through the reach and effectiveness of the funded projects in addressing their priority needs. The foundation's strategic priorities are centered on supporting initiatives that resonate with the LGBTQ Fund of Mississippi's vision, mission, and beliefs, essentially advocating for the fundamental rights and well-being of the LGBTQ community in Mississippi.

This funding opportunity supports artist residencies in K-12 public schools and community organizations in Tompkins County, aimed at integrating arts into education and enhancing students' creativity and skills.

The Arts Fund for East Tennessee, administered by the East Tennessee Foundation, aims to celebrate the region's rich artistic expressions and cultural diversity in 2024. This grant program aligns with the foundation's broader mission to sustain cultural traditions and encourage all forms of artistic expression within its 25-county service area. The foundation's strategic priorities are evident in its preference for projects that expand art opportunities to underserved populations, bring public art into daily life, support grassroots arts organizations, and celebrate historically underrepresented communities. Target beneficiaries include organizations that are 501(c)(3) public charities, units of government, or public educational institutions. New or emerging groups without nonprofit status can apply with a fiscal sponsor. A specific fund, the Katherine Davis Moore and Mary Elizabeth (Betty) Davis Foundation Fund, further targets art-related programs that benefit young persons under the age of 25 in East Tennessee. The overall impact goal is to foster a vibrant and inclusive arts community, ensuring that cultural opportunities are accessible to a wide range of individuals and communities, particularly those who have historically been marginalized. The grantmaking focuses on several key areas. Preference is given to projects with outreach efforts that extend art opportunities to underserved populations. Public art displays and performances designed to integrate art into the everyday lives of the general public are also prioritized. Support for grassroots arts organizations is a central focus, as is the celebration of arts and cultures of historically underrepresented communities. These priorities reflect a theory of change that by supporting diverse artistic expressions and increasing accessibility, the foundation can strengthen cultural identity and enhance community well-being. Funding amounts for the Arts Fund grants will range from $5,000 to $15,000, with a grant term from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2026. While the initial description mentions a size of $10,000 to $100,000, the "Funding Information" section clarifies the actual amounts. The expected outcomes include the sustained operation of cultural traditions, the proliferation of various artistic expressions, and increased engagement with the arts among diverse populations. Measurable results could involve the number of underserved individuals reached, the number of public art installations or performances, the growth of grassroots organizations, and the representation of underrepresented cultures in funded projects.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations and individual artists in Fulton, Montgomery, and Saratoga Counties to create public art projects that engage the community and enhance arts participation.

The Alexandria Area Community Foundation (AACF) “Difference Maker” grant round aims to support community initiatives within Douglas County, Minnesota, by fostering positive change. This grant aligns with the AACF's mission to provide leadership and financial support, building partnerships that extend beyond the grant itself to advance projects and initiatives. Eligible organizations include 501(c)3 nonprofits, schools, and government entities, demonstrating the foundation's commitment to broad community engagement. The grant targets residents within Douglas County, with a particular focus on addressing basic needs, supporting and strengthening families, children, and youth, and promoting diverse cultures. The AACF seeks to fund programs and projects that will bring about positive change in the Alexandria area community, ultimately aiming for a sustainable positive impact. They specifically look for initiatives that build social capital across generations and cultures, and support diversity, equity, and inclusion. The AACF's strategic priorities are evident in its focus areas, which include Education (especially K-12 and after-school programs), Social Services, Health (education, physical and mental health, abuse/violence reduction), Arts and Culture, and Civic activities that build, promote, and preserve communities. The foundation’s theory of change appears to be centered on fostering innovative solutions, encouraging collaborative efforts with various community partners, and supporting projects that create highly impactful and visible outcomes, inspiring further community investments. Expected outcomes include creating innovative solutions to community challenges, capitalizing on emerging opportunities, and building or supporting collaborative efforts among community partners. The grant also emphasizes making a sustainable positive impact, building social capital, and supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Projects are expected to have a lasting impact, whether through capital projects, new or expanded programs, or other strategic investments. Funding ranges from $5,000 to $30,000, and the grant encourages initiatives that can demonstrate measurable results in these focus areas.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations and community projects in the Garrison area of North Dakota, focusing on initiatives that benefit youth, senior citizens, and community development.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations in Gilroy and South County for projects that enhance community welfare across various sectors, including education, health, and the arts.

This program provides funding and support for community-driven projects that improve and beautify specific neighborhoods in Salt Lake City, encouraging local pride and volunteer participation.

The Maine Land Protection grant program supports land acquisition or conservation easement projects that foster strong connections between Maine/Wabanaki territory and its land and water. These projects should create or increase permanent access to these natural resources, particularly for marginalized and historically excluded populations. The program encourages applications from Wabanaki tribal governments and similar entities. Projects should involve community support and include future use plans with engagement strategies for maintaining the land. Grant renewed every year. Grant Annual opening/closing deadlines: June 21st to September 16th

The Conservation, Environment and Public Trails Grant Program, administered by the Santa Barbara Foundation, is dedicated to fostering environmental sustainability, land conservation, habitat restoration, public trails, and overall ecosystem health within Santa Barbara County. This program directly aligns with the foundation's mission by investing in projects that preserve and enhance the region's natural resources, ensuring a healthy and accessible environment for all residents. The grants support both new and existing initiatives that demonstrate a clear need and aim to create lasting positive change in the community. The primary beneficiaries of this program are the communities and natural landscapes of Santa Barbara County. The impact goals include improving equitable access to natural resources and trail systems, restoring degraded habitats, protecting ecologically significant lands, and promoting sustainable environmental practices. The program seeks to empower well-managed, financially viable organizations to implement effective projects that address identified environmental needs, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and environmentally conscious Santa Barbara County. Key priorities for funding include projects focused on preserving and ensuring equitable access to natural resources and trail systems, community-based restoration in various natural areas (wetlands, streams, coastal areas, grasslands, woodlands), early-stage investigations for land conservation efforts, and piloting or expanding projects that exemplify best practices in conservation. The strongest projects are those that foster partnerships and collaborations, incorporate community involvement and education, and align with broader regional plans such as Santa Barbara County’s Conservation Blueprint or the Food Action Plan. Expected outcomes include the establishment of new trails and restoration of existing ones, the permanent protection of ecologically and agriculturally valuable lands, the restoration of critical habitats, and the implementation of innovative solutions for sustainable land, forestry, and water management. Measurable results could include increased acres of conserved land, miles of accessible trails, improved biodiversity in restored areas, and enhanced community awareness and engagement in conservation efforts. The foundation's strategic priorities are evident in its emphasis on collaborative approaches, community engagement, and alignment with existing regional conservation strategies, reflecting a theory of change that prioritizes collective action and long-term planning for environmental resilience.

The Bowen Family Performing Arts Fund, managed by The Denver Foundation, aims to support performing arts programs. This initiative aligns with the foundation's mission to enhance opportunities for elementary and middle school youth, particularly those who have limited access to arts education. The grant seeks to foster an appreciation and understanding of various performing arts, connecting with the foundation's broader goal of supporting children from underserved or historically disadvantaged communities. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are elementary and middle school-aged youth who have fewer opportunities to engage with and learn about the arts. The impact goal is to increase their exposure to and appreciation of performing arts. The fund focuses on supporting programs within the seven-county Metro Denver region, ensuring that the foundation's efforts are concentrated within its defined service area and reach the intended demographic. The program prioritizes performing arts such as ballet, tap, jazz, opera, symphonic music, musicals, and theater productions. Strong applications will demonstrate an effective approach to promoting and furthering the teaching and appreciation of these art forms. The expected outcomes include increased participation in and understanding of performing arts among targeted youth, leading to enhanced cultural literacy and personal development. Measurable results could include attendance numbers, program completion rates, and feedback from participants and educators regarding the impact of the programs. While the document does not explicitly detail The Denver Foundation's overarching strategic priorities or theory of change, the focus on underserved youth in the arts suggests a strategic commitment to equitable access to cultural enrichment and youth development. The grant amounts, expected to range from $5,000 to $15,000, indicate a strategy of supporting numerous impactful, smaller-scale programs that can collectively create a significant difference within the community. The eligibility criteria emphasize supporting 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations or those with fiscal sponsors, ensuring that funds are distributed to legitimate and well-governed entities capable of delivering the intended programming.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to Staten Island artists, collaborative groups, and community arts organizations for public art and cultural projects that engage the local community and promote under-resourced disciplines.

The Duplin County Community Foundation (DCCF) Grant Program is currently accepting applications to support qualified charitable organizations serving the local community of Duplin County, North Carolina. This grant program is aligned with the DCCF's mission to address a broad range of local needs. The grant-making fund supports various purposes, including human services, education, youth development, health, food/nutrition, and arts. The foundation's strategic priority is to foster a responsive grant-making approach that addresses the diverse needs within the community, ensuring that funds are directed where they can have the most significant impact. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are organizations that serve the community-at-large within Duplin County. This includes 501(c)(3) public charity nonprofit organizations, organizations with a fiscal agent who is a 501(c)(3) public charity nonprofit, local governments (including public schools), and fire and rescue departments. Religious entities may also apply for funding to support social outreach and charitable service programs benefiting the community, but not for general operating support. The impact goal is to strengthen the local community by supporting essential services and programs that improve the quality of life for its residents. The foundation aims to create a ripple effect of positive change through its investments. The program prioritizes initiatives that meet local needs in a wide array of areas. This broad focus allows for flexibility in addressing emerging challenges and opportunities within Duplin County. The expected outcomes include enhanced community services, improved educational opportunities, healthier residents, and greater access to nutritious food and artistic programs. Measurable results would be evidenced by the number of individuals served by grant-funded programs, improvements in specific indicators related to health or education, and the overall positive impact on the well-being of Duplin County residents. The Duplin County Community Foundation's theory of change is rooted in the belief that by providing financial support to well-aligned and impactful local organizations, the foundation can empower these entities to deliver vital services and programs. This, in turn, leads to a stronger, more resilient, and vibrant community. The foundation emphasizes inclusivity, requiring organizations to offer programs and services without discrimination based on age, race, national origin, ethnicity, gender, physical ability, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or religious belief, ensuring equitable access to resources and benefits for all residents. The typical grant range from the community grantmaking fund is $500 to $1,000.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations, public entities, tribal nations, and educational institutions in Oklahoma to improve community infrastructure that promotes physical activity and nutrition.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations and schools in Long Beach to support programs that promote the physical, mental, and spiritual development of youth and individuals.