New York Recreation Grants

The Chautauqua County Department of Mental Hygiene and Social Services (DMHSS) is accepting applications to support the operations of Youth Team Sports (YTS) programs for underserved youth under the age of 18. Donor Name: Chautauqua County Department of Mental Hygiene and Social Services (DMHSS) State: New York County: Chautauqua County (NY) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 09/05/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: 1 Year Details: For the purposes of this funding opportunity, a “team sport” is defined as an organized physical activity in which groups of two or more individuals are in competition with two or more opposing individuals.  Youth Team Sports funding awards are guided by the following principles: Educational Connection and Achievement Physical Health and Well-Being Mental Health and Well-Being Employment Community Cohesion Funding Information Each applicant may request up to $15,000 in funding to support programming. Project Period The grant program, created under the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), and will run during the program year October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025. Eligibility Criteria Eligible applicants should be either a 501(c)(3) nonprofit or another community-based organization operating in Chautauqua County with a federal identification number and charity registration number that is able to meet the County’s insurance requirements. For more information, visit DMHSS.

The United Way of Northern New York (UWNNY) is pleased to announce 2025 Community Impact grant funding for local nonprofit, human service organizations. Donor Name: United Way of Northern New York State: New York County: Jefferson County (NY), Lewis County (NY), Saint Lawrence County (NY) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 08/31/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The United Way of Northern New York UWNNY seeks to connect with and provide funding to, community-based organizations that are outcome-driven, collaborative, and committed to Equity and Inclusion. Qualifying organizations are invited to submit proposals for programming that strengthens the organization’s impact. Through the Community Impact fund, UWNNY will provide funding support to a wide range of human service organizations. Priority will be given to organizations and proposals that: Focus on underserved and underrepresented populations and / or unmet needs. Utilize a collaborative approach to service delivery. Serve individuals or families that are Asset Limited, Income Constrained, and Employed (ALICE) or currently living in poverty. Objectives of Community Impact Fund To support programs providing services to residents of Jefferson, Lewis and/or St. Lawrence Counties that align with at least one of the primary areas of focus: Social determinants of health (SDoH) – interventions/strategies addressing SDoH, including, but not limited to, access to nutrition, housing, healthcare, literacy/language, education, and transportation. Child / Youth Success – programming that provides vital supplies and support necessary to academic success, growth and development, and a healthy successful transition into adulthood. Economic Stability – short- and long-term strategies to help people gain or maintain stability, such as job skills training, soft skills development, and support to those at risk of falling into poverty. Funding Information The maximum amount of funding that can be requested from the Community Impact fund is $25,000. The average grant award is $10,000. Eligibility Criteria Applications are open to 501(c)3 non-profit organizations providing human service programming to residents of Jefferson, Lewis, and/or St. Lawrence Counties. Submitted proposal must align with one of the primary areas of focus. Applicant must have been in operation for at least three years. Organization must be governed by a board of directors. Organization must have at least one paid employee or 1.0 FTE. For more information, visit UWNNY.

The Creative Learning Grant Program is designed to support and develop the capacity of Manhattan’s teaching artists and small arts organizations to provide community-based arts education projects and programming for youth, adults, and/or older adults. Donor Name: Lower Manhattan Cultural Council State: County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 09/10/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: 1 Year Details: The program is comprised of two funds: City funds, provided by the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs’ Greater New York Arts Development Fund, and State funds, provided by the New York State Council on the Arts’ (NYSCA) Statewide Community Regrants program. Funding is intended for artists and organizations that are not able to apply directly to the City and/or State for arts funding. Funding is provided for sequential, skill-building arts study and participatory arts projects that take place in accessible community-based settings such as senior centers, recreation centers, public libraries, and community centers. Funding Information Creative Learning awards grants in amounts of $4,000,and $8,000. Project Period  The project take place between January 1 – December 31, 2025. Eligibility Criteria Nonprofit Organizations: Creative Learning supports nonprofit organizations that meet the following Core Eligibility Requirements: Organizations must be based in Manhattan. Organizations must have proof of nonprofit status. Organizations must have a core artistic mission and/or history of arts programming. Applicants may not be directly applying to LMCC’s Creative Engagement program for the same fiscal year. Applicants may not be directly applying for DCLA (GNYADF) or NYSCA (Statewide Community Regrants) funds in another county/borough for the same fiscal year. First-time applicants a re required t o attend an information session webinar for Creative Engagement before applying. Individual Artists and Collectives: Creative Learning supports individual artists, as well as collectives, project-based collaborations, and unincorporated groups that meet the following Core Eligibility Requirements: Individual artists must be based in Manhattan. Individual artists may not apply or receive funds on behalf of any organization. Collectives must designate a lead artist (director, or equivalent), who meets all eligibility requirements for individual artists, to apply as an individual on its behalf. Note: The lead artist must be the primary entity responsible for the application, as well as the grant, if awarded. Guest artists or temporary programming staff will not be considered a lead artist for the application. Applicants may not be directly applying to LMCC’s Creative Engagement program for the same fiscal year. Applicants may not be directly applying for DCLA (GNYADF) or NYSCA (Statewide Community Regrants) funds in another county/borough for the same fiscal year. First-time applicants a re required t o attend an information session webinar for Creative Engagement before applying. For more information, visit LMCC.

The Rock Charitable Fund of the Northern New York Community Foundation is accepting applications to support from qualified charitable organizations, houses of worship, cemeteries, or governmental entities that serve St. Lawrence County residents. Donor Name: Northern New York Community Foundation State: New York County: Saint Lawrence County (NY) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 09/06/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: 3 Years Details: Grant funding is available to organizations whose missions and efforts align with the fund’s charitable purposes, which are:  To benefit or assist veterans of the United States military with their medical or recreational needs who live in St. Lawrence County;  For the maintenance and preservation of churches, houses of worship and cemeteries in St. Lawrence County; and  For the preservation and maintenance of places of legitimate historical significance in the county.  Funding Information  At least $100,000 in grant funding is available. Grant Period Up to 3 years. Eligibility Criteria Organizations that have received a grant award from this fund must wait three years before applying again for new funding. Awards to support veterans may only be made to qualified veteran organizations and cannot be made directly to individuals. However, grants are not restricted to Veterans Service Organizations and can be awarded to any nonprofit to help with programs or initiatives that directly support veterans. For more information, visit Northern New York Community Foundation.

Tourism Capital grants support significant investments in visitor-generating projects such as theaters, museums, trails, and other major cultural and recreational attractions. Donor Name: Tompkins County State: New York County: Tompkins County (NY) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 08/26/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Funding Information Grants range from $5,000 to $100,000. Uses of Funds The funds can be used for design, renovation, and new building projects; investments in unique permanent installations such as exhibits; and feasibility studies of potential capital projects. Supported Activities Past projects funded include the Dryden Rail Trail Stewart Park Inclusive Playground renovation of Discover Cayuga Lake’s charter boat for eco-cruises; Tompkins Center for History and Culture buildout visitor amenities for the Cayuga Waterfront Trail. What is Eligible for Funding? Capital Investment Projects New construction and renovation projects are eligible. The project may provide expansion or renovation to existing facilities or may be a new facility. Project will typically be valued at $75,000 or higher. Grant funds may contribute up to one-third (33%) of eligible costs that include: Acquisition of land Acquisition, construction, and renovation of buildings Acquisition of furnishings, equipment, permanent exhibitions, and other capital improvements designed to serve or promote tourism over a minimum of five years Design services for the project Feasibility Studies Studies should lead to a capital investment as described above. Eligible projects include: Concept-level design and determination of cost estimates Tourism plan for a capital project Business plan for a capital project. Eligibility Criteria Nonprofit organizations designated as 501(c)3. Municipalities within Tompkins County. Farmers Markets. For more information, visit Tompkins County.

Tourism Advancement grants fund projects and marketing campaigns that attract visitors to Tompkins County for overnight stays. Donor Name: Tompkins County State: New York County: Tompkins County (NY) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 08/26/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: Less than 1 Year Details: The Foundation is particularly interested in initiatives that generate travel demand during periods where the market has the capacity to accommodate additional travelers.  Funding Information Grants range from $2,500 to $20,000. Grant Period  The grant activity period runs from November 2024 to April 2025. Supported Activities This grant can fund a variety of projects that attract tourists, including: Large-scale and high-profile events, marketing campaigns, art installations, guided tours, and exhibits. Festivals, outdoor theatre, website redesigns, guided tours, museum exhibits, and musical performances. What is Eligible for Funding? Projects aligned with the Strategic Tourism Plan or other tourism implementation plans are eligible for Tourism Advancement grants. Examples include:  Artistic performances and installations Heritage tourism events Agriculinary events Outdoor recreation events Events that attract a niche audience Festivals Temporary exhibits  Guided tours Sporting events and tournaments Marketing campaigns. Eligibility Criteria Nonprofit organizations designated as 501(c)3. Municipalities within Tompkins County. For more information, visit Tompkins County.

The Manhattan Borough is seeking applications for its Manhattan Composting Award to support composting programs. Donor Name: Manhattan Borough State: County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant | Reimbursement Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 08/30/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The Manhattan Composting Award is to reduce the amount of organic waste that enters the waste stream is one of the easiest and most effective ways to combat climate change. Funding Information One-time contract ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. This is a reimbursement grant. Project Priorities Priority projects include (but are not limited to): Composting and composting education programs for youth Composting and composting education programs for seniors and/or intergenerational populations Community engagement regarding the importance of composting and the many options for doing so throughout Manhattan Eligibility Criteria  Any religious organizations must have a 501(c)3 human service organization designation. All organizations must provide proof of insurance. Funds can only support activities and programs conducted within Manhattan. For more information, visit Manhattan Borough.

Applicants are invited to apply for the Manhattan Community Awards Program. Donor Name: Manhattan Borough State: New York County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant | Reimbursement Deadline: 08/30/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Manhattan-based organizations serving seniors, youth, arts organizations, composting and education programs, education and recreational programming. The Manhattan Community Awards Program (MCAP) is contracted through three city agencies: the Department for the Aging (DFTA), the Department of Corrections (DOC), and the Department of Education (DOE). Focus Areas The Manhattan Community Award Program prioritizes funding to organizations working with Manhattan communities and addressing the priorities noted below. For FY 25, They seek to fund programs that address (but are not limited to) the following core priorities: Senior Programs Health, fitness, education, nutrition, and other programs serving seniors and intergenerational populations Arts and cultural programming for seniors Food pantry and emergency food access programs for seniors Climate Mitigation and Resiliency Public engagement around specific Manhattan-based resiliency projects Green roof projects, hydroponics, and community gardens Education Sports and other after-school physical education programs Youth arts programs Youth health and wellness programs Anti-Gun Violence Initiatives Anti-gun violence and intervention programs Performance, literary and visual arts partnerships addressing social justice and the impacts of racism School-arts organization partnerships pertaining to anti-gun initiatives. Funding Information One-time contract ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. This is a reimbursement grant. Eligibility Criteria  Any religious organizations must have a 501(c)3 human service organization designation. All organizations must provide proof of insurance. Funds can only support activities and programs conducted within Manhattan. For more information, visit Manhattan borough.

The Rochester Area Community Foundation is seeking applications for its John F. Wegman Fund. Donor Name: Rochester Area Community Foundation State: New York County: Monroe County (NY) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline:  08/09/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Concerns of the elderly, character-building opportunities for youth, and improved labor/management relations through education or other means. Funding Criteria The John F. Wegman Fund has limited resources and looks for opportunities to provide small amounts of money that significantly impact community-based programs. Most awards are one-time grants for specific, participant-driven projects. The grant preference is for agencies, projects, and programs that are: Small scale Start-up Innovative (develop or adapt new strategies) Participant-driven (based on identified needs of beneficiaries) Examples of recent awards: Concerns of the elderly: Funding to support affordable transportation for seniors to health-related appointments. Character-building opportunities for youth: Funding to empower at-risk youth through workplace skill development and educating students in a supportive, multi-sensory learning environment so that they all become successful learners. Improved labor/management relations: Funding the republishing of the book All These Years of Effort, to more accurately portray the history of Rochester’s central labor unions. Funding Information These grants range from $1,500 to $10,000, with a median size of $7,300. Eligibility Criteria Applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations serving Monroe County, NY.  The John F. Wegman Advisory Committee will consider new requests from previously funded organizations after the final report has been submitted and 18 months have passed since they were last funded. The John F. Wegman Fund does not provide support for: Annual giving campaigns Capital building Fellowships Individuals Operating deficits Political campaigns Religious activities The John F. Wegman Fund gives limited consideration to: Land acquisition Renewable grants Staff training For more information, visit RACF.

Applications are now being accepted for the Rock Charitable Fund. Donor Name: Northern New York Community Foundation State: New York County: Saint Lawrence County (NY) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 09/06/2024 Size of the Grant: $100,000 to $500,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Funding is available for projects that specifically address existing structures/elements as well as technical assistance and planning support. No grants will be made for additions or modifications that substantially alter the historic character of the property. While interior improvements may be considered, exterior projects that are most publicly visible and accessible are preferred. Peripheral/incidental projects are not desired. Funding Information  At least $100,000 is available for the fund Eligibility Criteria  501(c)(3) charitable organizations, churches, houses of worship, cemeteries, or government entities may apply for support in one or more of the following focus areas: For the maintenance and preservation of churches, houses of worship, and cemeteries located in St. Lawrence County, New York or For the maintenance and preservation of places of legitimate historical significance located in St. Lawrence County, New York or To benefit and/or assist Veterans of the United States Military residing in St. Lawrence County, New York, for their medical and/or recreational needs. Any property must be wholly owned by the applicant organization. Funding is available for projects that specifically address existing structures/elements as well as technical assistance and planning support. No grants will be made for additions or modifications that substantially alter the historic character of the property. While interior improvements may be considered, exterior projects that are most publicly visible and accessible are preferred. Peripheral/incidental projects are not desired. Grants to cemeteries may support maintenance and preservation of the property as a whole or certain historic or aesthetically significant portions of the cemetery. The awards cannot be used to maintain or preserve specific burial plots, mausoleums, or monuments without the justification of particular significance and public benefit. Grants supporting Veterans can only be awarded to qualified organizations serving Veterans, but not necessarily only to Veterans Service Organizations. Awards may support programs but cannot be made directly to individuals. “ For more information, visit Northern New York Community Foundation.

The Air Products Greater Massena Community Fund provides financial support to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations and local governing bodies for a wide variety of programs, projects, and initiatives that improve the quality of life for residents in the Greater Massena community. Donor Name: Northern New York Community Foundation State: New York County: Franklin County (NY), Saint Lawrence County (NY) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 07/31/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Funding will be awarded to programs/projects benefiting community needs in areas including, but not limited to health and wellness, arts and culture, human services, education, families, youth and/or elders, environment and conservation, community development, recreation, and more. Each request will be evaluated for its potential impact on the Massena community and, in particular, its support for disadvantaged communities, the amount of funding available for disbursement, and the quality of the planning, leadership, and support of the applicant’s proposal.  Funding Information Up to $7,500 per grant application. Geographical Areas Greater Massena community within St. Lawrence and Franklin Counties. For more information, visit Northern New York Community Foundation.

The Cullen Foundation is currently accepting applications for its Responsive Grant – Education. Donor Name: Cullen Foundation State: New York County: Erie County (NY) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 07/26/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: 3 Years Details: In Education, they seek applications from organizations offering Supplemental Academic Programs (SAP). All programs should have direct academic outcomes, be evidence-based, and primarily serve economically disadvantaged students. Programs must support students from multiple schools. Types of Support Cullen Foundation has established the following types of support for responsive grants in the education focus area: Program/project support Capital/physical infrastructure Capacity building Funding Information An organization may apply for 1, 2 or 3 years of funding, ranging from $5,000 to $100,000 per year (for a $300,000 total maximum). Eligibility Criteria Cullen Foundation has the following eligibility criteria for all applicants: The organization is a 501(c)(3) The organization must submit audited or reviewed financials prepared by a CPA for its most recently completed fiscal year. This is Cullen’s requirement and is not related to NYS requirements Erie County is their primary geographic service area. Education applicants not located in Erie County must serve at least 80% Erie County residents No funding received will be used for partisan political activity No funding received will be used for expenses already incurred No funding will overlap with an existing grant from the Cullen Foundation The request must fit within Cullen Foundation’s education focus area (evidence-based programs with direct academic outcomes, serving economically disadvantaged students in grades pre-K through 12); and requests for the following will not be considered: Recreational camps or recreation-based programs Internship programs Education resource rooms and drop-in centers Museum exhibits Professional development programs and services Field trip funds and programs Skills and job training programs Transportation requests Arts education programs Requests from Individual schools Request for programs that serve students from only one school Individual scholarships will not be awarded other than those provided by the Cullen Scholars program. For more information, visit Cullen Foundation.

The Jeannette F. Schlobach grant program, funded by the Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley, offers $10,000 to $100,000 to nonprofit organizations in Dutchess, Putnam, or Ulster Counties, New York, that provide services such as case management, housing, education, job training, and health services to residents impacted by poverty, with a focus on historically marginalized and under-funded communities.

This grant provides funding to municipalities and organizations in Chautauqua County to develop tourism initiatives that enhance marketing, events, and attractions, requiring a matching contribution from recipients.

This initiative provides funding to municipalities and Indian Nations in New York State to build or improve swimming facilities in underserved communities, promoting safe access to swimming.

This funding opportunity provides financial and technical assistance to New York municipalities for projects that revitalize waterfront areas, enhance climate resilience, and improve public access and water quality.

This funding program provides financial support to municipalities, state agencies, and nonprofits in New York for the acquisition and improvement of parks, historic sites, and heritage areas, with increased funding available for projects in high-poverty areas.

This program provides funding to local governments in New York for the development, maintenance, and grooming of snowmobile trails to promote tourism and safe recreational opportunities.

This opportunity invites midway operators to submit proposals for providing and managing rides, games, and concessions at the Great New York State Fair from 2025 to 2034.

The Cultivator of Change program recognizes and provides support to individuals who have displayed outstanding leadership in the food system. Donor Name: Western New York Foundation State: New York County: Allegany County (NY), Cattaraugus County (NY), Chautauqua County (NY), Erie County (NY), Genesee County (NY), Niagara County (NY), Wyoming County (NY) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 08/01/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: This program presents a unique opportunity to acknowledge and support these vital leaders who are critical to communities and who demonstrate the following qualities:  Act as change agent working among underserved populations Operate from a place of empathy and compassion  Seek community-driven solutions to pressing food system issues  A willingness to share their experiences and knowledge with others  Funding Information Selected food system leaders will receive a $2,500 grant to assist them in their continued efforts. Eligibility Criteria  To nominate a candidate, an individual or organization (with direct knowledge of the leader’s work) must submit a nomination form. The nominator should provide a description of the nominee’s contributions toward building community and strengthening local or regional food system. Additionally, the nominator should explain why they believe the nominee is prioritizing equity and describe their potential to realize scale. Twice a year, two (2) leaders from each of the 7 counties served by Western New York Foundation will be selected.  For more information, visit Western New York Foundation.