Phoenix Grants for Nonprofits

The Foundation is dedicated to providing financial assistance to organizations committed to improving our world. Solutions to the problems of today's world still lie in the values of innovation, practicality, hard work, and compassion.

The Foundation considers applications for grants in the following areas:

• Education
• Social Service
• Health care
• Civic and cultural
• Environmental

The categories above are not intended to limit the interest of the Foundation from considering other worthwhile projects. In general, the Foundation guidelines are broad to give us flexibility in providing grants.

The majority of our grants are made in the U.S. However, like Dr. Scholl, we recognize the need for a global outlook. Non-U.S. grants are given to organizations where directors have knowledge of the grantee.

Grant Process

On an invitation-only basis, the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust funds primarily nonprofit organizations in Arizona and Indiana that align closely with our giving areas: Helping People in Need, Protecting Animals and Nature, and Enriching Community Life. 

Helping People in Need

Mrs. Pulliam valued giving people experiencing difficulty a hand-up and firmly believed that education was essential to reaching one’s full potential.

The Trust supports:

Self-sufficiency

• Programs that provide adult education or training with accompanying social supports for individuals to obtain and maintain gainful employment.
• Programs that focus on economic self-reliance through micro-lending, small business development and entrepreneurial efforts for low-income individuals.
• Programs that assist the elderly in maintaining their independence and remaining in their homes.

Crisis Intervention

• Programs that assist vulnerable families, women and children to help move them from crisis or instability to greater functioning.
• Programs that provide basic needs, such as food, clothing, emergency shelter or transitional housing.

Foster Care

• Programs that increase the number of licensed foster families and kinship providers.
• Multigenerational programs that help prevent children from entering the system.
• Programs that support young adults ages, 18-25 who are aging out of the system, with post-secondary educational attainment, job training and financial self-sufficiency.

Education and Literacy

• Programs that provide mentoring and tutoring to disadvantaged youth.
• Out-of-school time programs and projects for underserved children.
• Programs that improve literacy skills of adults.
• Programs that help high school students gain access to careers or post-secondary education.
• Programs that work with children (0 – 5) and their families to improve literacy, reading and language acquisition.

Protecting Animals and Nature

Mrs. Pulliam loved animals – domesticated and wild – and the natural environment. She sought ways to encourage human bonds with both.

The Trust supports organizations and programs that:

• Programs that provide humane and wellness services for domestic animals, including shelter, rescue, spay/neuter and adoption.
• Programs that promote conservation of natural habitats and ecosystems that advance preservation, protection and restoration of land, water, wildlife and plants.
• Programs that promote environmental awareness to connect people to the natural world, promote personal stewardship, or offer knowledge and tools for addressing current and future problems. 

Enriching Community Life

Mrs. Pulliam appreciated the importance of having vibrant communities that benefit all residents, while ensuring that nonprofit organizations fulfill their missions at a level of excellence.

The Trust supports:

• Programs that add to the overall civic vibrancy and cultural vitality of the community.
• Programs that create innovative solutions to enhance the quality of life in Indianapolis or Phoenix. 

Mission

The mission of the Hearst Foundations is to identify and fund outstanding nonprofits to ensure that people of all backgrounds in the United States can build healthy, productive and satisfying lives. Through its grantmaking, the Hearst Foundations support well-established nonprofit organizations that address significant issues within their major areas of focus—culture, education, health and social service—and that primarily serve large demographic and/or geographic constituencies. In each area of funding, the Foundations seek to identify those organizations achieving truly differentiated results relative to other organizations making similar efforts for similar populations. The Foundations also look for evidence of sustainability beyond their support.

Whether providing a scholarship to a deserving student, supporting a rural health clinic or bringing artists into schools so children can see firsthand the beauty of the arts, the Foundations’ focus is consistent: to help those in need, those underserved and those underrepresented in society. Since the Foundations were formed in the 1940s, the scale and capabilities of the grant making have changed, but the mission has not.

Culture Grant

The Hearst Foundations fund cultural institutions that offer meaningful programs in the arts and sciences, prioritizing those that enable engagement by young people and create a lasting and measurable impact. The Foundations also fund select programs nurturing and developing artistic talent. Supported organizations include arts schools, ballets, museums, operas, performing arts centers, symphonies and theaters.

Funding Priorities in Culture

In the recent past, 25% of total funding has been allocated to Culture. Organizations with budgets over $10 million have received 60% of the funding in Culture.

The Hearst Foundations are only able to fund approximately 25% of all grant requests, of which about 80% is directed to prior grantees and about 20% is targeted toward new grantees.

Types of Support

Program, capital and, on a limited basis, general and endowment support

The Majestic Realty Foundation

As developers, Majestic Realty Co. builds business parks that serve communities across 13 states. Indeed, this perspective gives our employees unique insight into grassroots community needs. The Majestic Realty Foundation grew out of our realization that community needs were growing rapidly. We saw that great numbers of youth and families were at risk from increasing gang-related violence. We saw that homelessness and hunger impacted more families than ever; plus high school drop-out rates reach epidemic proportions. But we also saw that together, we could make a difference.

In 2002, our company’s longstanding tradition of corporate giving was formalized with the launch of the Majestic Realty Foundation – now the cornerstone of our community investment program. As builders first, we know the value of creating communities of promise, where families and businesses know that their futures are secure and bright. To this end, we have devoted time and resources to build collaborations and provide professional training to help local nonprofits increase their capacities.

Our Mission

Realizing the responsibilities of an industry leader, The Majestic Realty Foundation provides support to our local communities in five key investment areas:

• Youth
• Education
• Family
• Health
• Violence Prevention

Our Vision

To create a legacy and a model for a financially and operationally sustainable foundation that leverages our capabilities to enhance the quality of life in our communities.

Guiding Principles

• Vision
• Leadership
• Passion
• Commitment
• Caring
• Creativity
• Collaboration

Majestic Realty Foundation Fast Facts

• Established in 2002 to move Majestic Realty from passive to active philanthropy
• Our flagship program, the Los Angeles Youth Leadership Council, brings together students from inner city youth centers for leadership training activities
• National organizations are funded across several geographic markets, including Ronald McDonald House, Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCAs and local Children’s Hospitals
• The Foundation links excess inventory from Majestic Realty clients with organizations in need
• “Get on Board” campaign enables Majestic employees to serve on more than 40 charitable boards, strengthening the nonprofit sector in our communities
• Thousands of hours of volunteer service directed to worthy community-based organizations

Active Philanthropy

We embrace the concept of “active philanthropy,” viewing our involvement as much more than just writing checks to grantees. Instead, we look for strategic nonprofit partners in our communities. In addition to our financial contributions, we take leadership roles in local organizations, donate countless hours and recruit the resources of our clients, vendors, brokers and others, to help meet the many needs in our communities.

Building a Brighter Future, One Student at a Time

In Southern California, the Majestic Realty Foundation’s commitment to active philanthropy is clearly demonstrated through its flagship program, the Los Angeles Youth Leadership Council (LAYLC). As a leadership and teambuilding collaborative, LAYLC brings together 80 high school student leaders from 43 separate LA schools. Each attends one of six inner-city youth centers: the Bresee Foundation, El Centro del Pueblo, Heart of Los Angeles (HOLA), Para Los Niños, Salesian Boys & Girls Club and The Salvation Army Red Shield Center. Through monthly meetings and enrichment activities, the LAYLC empowers students from Los Angeles’ most challenged neighborhoods to develop and apply leadership skills through participation in an annual camp, college tours and forums with high-profile guest speakers. Additionally, students receive training in public speaking, economic literacy and civic affairs.

The Majestic Realty Foundation believes that youth centers have the power to curb youth violence, develop strong leaders and create safe communities.

Driven by a Shared Passion

As a vital part of our corporate culture, the employees of Majestic Realty Co., Majestic Management Co. and Commerce Construction Co., L.P., volunteer thousands of hours for community organizations. Whether taking part in charity walkathons, collecting shoes and sponsoring community-wide days of service, Majestic/Commerce employees have ongoing opportunities to serve those in need, and they never fail to turn out in great numbers. We realize that our team members are our greatest asset. Through the Foundation’s innovative “Get on Board” campaign, Majestic employees freely give their time and talents by serving in leadership positions on nonprofit boards. In fact, currently our employees serve on more than 46 nonprofit boards.

Types of Giving – Restricted or Unrestricted Grants

Restricted- Grants Limited to Specific Program

Unrestricted – General Operating Funds

Challenge Grants – Matching Fund Campaign for Specific Programs

Community Investments

While charitable investments are tailored to local needs, Applied Materials and the Foundation provide funding focused on Girls Empowerment, Education, Civic Engagement, Arts and Culture and the Environment. We also contribute to relief and recovery efforts when natural disasters affect our communities around the world.

Focus Areas

We provide funding to organizations providing programs and services in the following focus areas:

• Education, Arts & Culture, Civic Engagement, Environment and Girls Empowerment.

We prioritize projects that address community needs in sites where Applied Materials does business and welcome opportunities to engage employees with local grant recipients.

Education 

Education inspires young minds, opens new doors and paves the way to more promising futures. We recognize that many communities and schools lack the resources and programs required to prepare their students for meaningful careers. For this reason, the majority of our education grants are directed to neighborhoods with the greatest need.

We have a special interest in funding Education grant proposals that:

• Benefit students in grades K-12
• Focus on traditional skills such as reading, writing, math, science and technology, and other subjects that prepare young people for college and career
• Address critical education needs through innovative approaches to learning
• Expand existing efforts in order to reach more students or a wider geographic area
• Actively partner with other nonprofit groups to create, implement or evaluate shared programs

Arts and Culture

Creativity sparks the imagination and drives the development of new ideas that can transform the way we live. We support efforts that bring the full spectrum of artistic expression to the greater community, from visual and performing arts to community events and workshops.

We have a special interest in funding Arts and Culture grant proposals that:

• Have broad community appeal
• Take arts and culture outside traditional settings to reach young people of diverse backgrounds, particularly in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods
• Support nonprofit organizations in bringing the arts to educational programs and organizations

Civic Engagement

When people are actively involved in improving the quality of life in their neighborhoods, they help to create more vibrant, livable communities. With our civic engagement grants, we support organizations that help people find stability in difficult times and develop strength of NGO/nonprofit sector to address community challenges.

We have a special interest in funding Civic Engagement grant proposals that:

• Meet basic needs such as access to nutritional food, clean water and affordable housing
• Support systemic, collaborative approaches to eliminating homelessness
• Stimulate innovations that improve efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery
• Support the infrastructure of the nonprofit sector and its leadership 

Environment

To engage employees and community members in working toward a more sustainable future, we invest in environmental education and community-based projects that demonstrate the importance and value of protecting the environment.

We have a special interest in funding Environment grant proposals that:

• Focus on environmental education for young people, especially in underserved communities
• Encourage hands on opportunities for employee volunteers and their families

Girls Empowerment

See separate grant page here

Charitable Contributions

Costco Wholesale’s primary charitable efforts specifically focus on programs supporting children, education, and health and human services in the communities where we do business. Throughout the year we receive a large number of requests from nonprofit organizations striving to make a positive impact, and we are thankful to be able to provide support to a variety of organizations and causes. While we would like to respond favorably to all requests, understandably, the needs are far greater than our allocated resources and we are unable to accommodate them all.

Warehouse Donations:

Warehouse donations are handled at the warehouse level - please consult your local warehouse for up-to-date information regarding their donations contacts and review process.

Grant Applications

If the request is under consideration, you may be contacted by staff for any additional information needed. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, and decisions are made based on several factors, including: type of program; identified community need not otherwise available; indication that evidenced based data will establish measurable results of intended outcomes; community collaboration; broad base of financial support; project budget and operating expenses.

Michael & Susan Dell Foundation Grants

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation only accepts unsolicited proposals for specific areas within the education, family economic stability and childhood health sectors in select countries where we work, namely the United States, India and South Africa.

As a guideline, the foundation does not fund more than 25% of a project’s budget or more than 10% of an organization’s total annual operating expenses.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation has always recognized the power of providing grants to partner organizations that we knew were already working hard to improve the lives of urban children living in poverty. By aligning with organizations that are already making a difference, we continue to make an immediate impact on the lives of thousands of children.

Foundation priorities:

We fund social enterprises that directly serve or impact children or youth from urban low-income communities in the areas of education, health, and family economic stability (including livelihoods and financial inclusion). These social enterprises may be structured as for-profit or nonprofit entities.

Partnerships

We collaborate with a range of organizations focused on creating opportunities for children and families living in urban poverty, with a deep emphasis on measuring impact. Our funding advances projects already making an impact in education, health, and family economic stability. Through these enduring and long-standing partnerships, we create lasting change together.

Introduction

Cox Communications, in partnership with its fiscal partner Arizona Community Foundation, is pleased to invite your nonprofit organization to apply for grants through Cox Charities. This is a special opportunity to receive funding for programs that support one or more of Cox Charities’ three philanthropic cornerstones: Education (with a priority on K-12 and STEAM), Diversity (with a priority on programs serving 80% of more of a target population or serve an inclusion, diversity and equity initiative), and Environment/Sustainability programs (with a priority on water conservation, waste or carbon reduction).

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust is devoted solely to the funding of charitable, scientific, medical and educational organizations.

The Board endeavors to support soundly-managed charitable organizations that give service with a broad scope, have a substantial effect on their target populations, and contribute materially to the general welfare. The Board does not discriminate on the basis of ethnicity, race, gender, sexual orientation or religion.

PNC Foundation

Strengthening and enriching the lives of our neighbors in communities where we live and work.

Vision & Mission

For decades, we have provided resources to seed ideas, foster development initiatives and encourage leadership in nonprofit organizations where imagination and determination are at work enhancing people's lives everyday.

The PNC Foundation's priority is to form partnerships with community-based nonprofit organizations in order to enhance educational opportunities, with an emphasis on early childhood education, and to promote the growth of communities through economic development initiatives.

Foundation Grant

The PNC Foundation supports a variety of nonprofit organizations with a special emphasis on those that work to achieve sustainability and touch a diverse population, in particular, those that support early childhood education and/or economic development.

Education

The PNC Foundation supports educational programs for children and youth, particularly early childhood education initiatives that meet the criteria established through PNC Grow Up Great. Specifically, PNC Grow Up Great grants must:

• Support early education initiatives that benefit children from birth to age five; and
• Serve a majority of children (>50%) from low- to moderate-income families; and
• Adhere to all other standard PNC Foundation guidelines, as outlined on the PNC Foundation website, applicant eligibility quiz, as well as the Foundation policies and procedures; and
• Include one or a combination of the following:
  • direct services/programs for children in their classroom or community;
  • professional development/workforce development for early childhood educators;
  • family and/or community engagement in children’s early learning
• Additional considerations:
  • The grant focus should include math, science, reading, vocabulary development, the arts, financial education, or social/emotional development.
  • The grant recipient, or collaborative partner, should have early childhood education as an area of focus. If the organization’s focus is beyond birth to age five, the specific grant must be earmarked for birth to age five.
  • Incorporate opportunities for PNC volunteers in classroom or non-classroom-based activities.

Economic Development

Economic development organizations, including those which enhance the quality of life through neighborhood revitalization, cultural enrichment and human services are given support. Priority is given to community development initiatives that strategically promote the growth of low-and moderate-income communities and/or provide services to these communities.

• Affordable Housing
  • The PNC Foundation understands the critical need for affordable housing for low-and moderate-income individuals.
  • We are committed to providing support to nonprofit organizations that:
    • give counseling and services to help these individuals maintain their housing stock;
    • offer transitional housing units and programs; and/or
    • offer credit counseling assistance to individuals, helping them to prepare for homeownership.
• Community Development
  • Because small businesses are often critical components of community growth and help foster business development, the PNC Foundation provides support to nonprofit organizations that
    • offer technical assistance to, or loan programs for, small businesses located in low-and moderate-income areas or
    • support small businesses that employ low-and moderate-income individuals.
• Community Services
  • Support is given to social services organizations that benefit the health, education, quality of life or provide essential services for low-and moderate-income individuals and families.
  • The PNC Foundation supports job training programs and organizations that provide essential services for their families.
• Arts & Culture
  • Support is given for cultural enrichment programs benefitting the community.
• Revitalization & Stabilization of Low-and Moderate-Income Areas
  • The PNC Foundation supports nonprofit organizations that serve low-and moderate-income neighborhoods by improving living and working conditions.
  • Support is given to organizations that help stabilize communities, eliminate blight and attract and retain businesses and residents to the community.

About the Neely Foundation

The Neely Foundation funds a broad spectrum of programs in the Phoenix East Valley. Grants support cultural and fine arts associations as well as social service agencies, education and leadership groups, health services, and welfare organizations. Scholarships are awarded to students attending Arizona’s major universities and community colleges.

The Neelys were farmers, and they prospered. Their harvest continues as the Foundation improves and enriches the lives of Arizona’s citizens.

Supporting organizations that make a difference.

The Neely Foundation awards grants to non-profit organizations who work to improve the lives of people living in the East Valley. Focused areas of giving include:

• Education
• Community Service
• Fine Arts
• Health Services and
• Small Capital Grants

Causes We Advance

A wide range of organizations in our community receive grants including museums, food banks, medical clinics, summer camps, choirs, homeless shelters, youth leadership programs, Christian ministries, agricultural groups, and many more.

Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation Grant

The Foundation will consider requests to support museums, cultural and performing arts programs; schools and hospitals; educational, skills-training and other programs for youth, seniors, and persons with disabilities; environmental and wildlife protection activities; and other community-based organizations and programs.

Community Grants

State Farm is committed to helping build safer, stronger and better-educated communities.

• ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​We are committed to auto and home safety programs and activities that help people manage the risks of everyday life.
• We invest in education, economic empowerment and community development projects, programs and services that help people realize their dreams.
• We help maintain the vibrancy of our communities by assisting nonprofits that support community revitalization.

Good Neighbor Citizenship company grants focus on safety, community development and education.

Focus Areas

Safety Grants

We strive to keep our customers and communities safe. That's why our funding is directed toward:

• Auto safety — improving driver, passenger, vehicle or roadway safety
• Home safety — shielding homes from fires, crime or natural disasters
• Disaster preparedness and mitigation
• Disaster recovery

Community Development

We support nonprofits that invest and develop stronger neighborhoods. That's why our funding is directed toward:

• Affordable housing — home construction and repair
• Commercial/small business development
• Job training
• Neighborhood revitalization
• Financial literacy
• Sustainable housing and transportation
• Food insecurity

Education

Our education funding is directed toward initiatives that support the following programs:

• Higher education
• K-12 academic performance
• K-12 STEM
• Pathways for college and career success

About Piper Trust

Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust honors the commitment of its founder in supporting organizations that enrich health, well-being, and opportunity for the people of Maricopa County, Arizona. Through strategic grantmaking, nonprofit support, and community leadership, the Trust strives to be a vital part of our region and make a positive, lasting impact on its future.

Grant Priorities

Reflecting our founder’s philanthropic values, Piper Trust concentrates its grantmaking and initiatives in six core areas — arts and culture, children, education, healthcare and medical research, older adults, and religious organizations — and works side-by-side with community partners to strengthen the capacity, leadership, and effectiveness of local nonprofits for the long-term benefit of Maricopa County, Arizona.

Arts & Culture

Arts and culture contribute to individual well-being, improved educational outcomes, community cohesion, and a vibrant economy. Basic access and a sense of belonging for marginalized people ensures that all people of Maricopa County can reap these benefits.

• Efforts that create a sense of welcoming and belonging for marginalized people.
• Efforts that improve access to arts and culture experiences, particularly for young families and older adults.

Children

Children thrive in strong, supported families.

Supporting child well-being and nurturing the social and emotional development of children builds a foundation for strong communities and a vibrant society.

• Access to protective factors – strategies that embrace and support struggling parents and ensure family success.
• Access to quality childcare and after-school programs; and youth development programs that focus on inclusion and belonging.
• Access to unique programs and services that address developmental delays or disabilities; or adverse childhood experiences (ACEs).

Education

Students’ success in school leads to increased opportunities in work and in life.

Programs that support early success build a strong foundation for academic attainment and lifelong learning.

• High-impact programs that support kindergarten readiness and early literacy.
• Intensive strategies that support K-12 students’ academic success; and targeted programs that support persistence.

Healthcare & Medical Research

Individual health is essential to our quality of life and to the well-being of families and communities.

Access to quality care for growing children and aging adults is essential to a thriving society.

• Access to quality care for growing children and aging adults is essential to a thriving society.
• Access to the foundations of individual health and wellbeing – the non-clinical determinants of health.
• Access to essential health services through health insurance or the healthcare safety net, telehealth and transportation services, and practitioners with relevant language and cultural competencies.
• The Trust’s support for medical research is limited to trust-initiated investments in local centers of excellence that strengthen the biosciences ecosystem and workforce.

Older Adults

Older adults are beloved members of families and communities and offer valuable life experience.

Communities that support, respect, and integrate older adults reap social and economic rewards that benefit people of all ages.

• Access to programs and services that allow older adults to age in place, such as practical supports, friendly visiting, and access to community services.
• Access to family caregiver supports, such as home and respite care, support groups, and social connection.
• Access to programs that support a sense of inclusion and belonging, such as community connectedness, civic engagement, and creative aging.

Religious Organizations

Faith-based organizations strengthen our communities by caring for and welcoming those most in need.

Driven by deeply-held values, these organizations support individual welfare, justice, and human dignity.

• Improvements or collaborations that support growth and expansion of faith-based organizations’ delivery of critical health and human services.
• Mrs. Piper’s commitment to Catholic education and Diocesan priorities is sustained through a Trust-initiated partnership with the Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix.

Types of grants we typically fund:

Programmatic Grants

Efforts to improve service delivery, expand programs and services, or pilot new approaches. The Trust is committed to supporting the full cost to execute high-impact efforts and will fund indirect expenses included in a program budget.

Capital Campaign Grants

Typically multi-million, multi-year fundraising efforts to support land acquisition, construction, etc.

Capital Project Grants

Typically a discreet short-term, small scale construction effort such as a building expansion; renovation of an existing facility, or capital purchases to support programs and services.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Vision

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation, "A Foundation for All", was established in 2002. It was begun in order to give a clear voice for those who wish to be a part of the many, worthy, forces for change in our world.

We are a foundation whose purpose is to look ahead towards the future, giving the past its due by remembering where we came from, and how much we can all accomplish together. We aim to make the critical difference on our planet by recognizing and having respect for our ever changing world. We respect all Life, the Environment, and all People, no matter who they are.

Mission

Driven by a philanthropic calling to support marginalized communities throughout the world, the Semnani Family Foundation partners with on-the-ground organizations and leverages its resources in a cost-effective and efficient manner that delivers the maximum benefit.

History

Guided by his grandmother Maliheh’s example and teachings, Khosrow Semnani and his wife Ghazaleh established the Semnani Family Foundation in 1993. The foundation’s first grant was issued through CARE International to an orphanage in Romania that cared for newborns affected by HIV. Over the last few decades, the foundation has continued to build upon its mission to empower the disaffected, partnering with a variety of organizations in different countries who can make the greatest impact.

In addition to its global influence, the Semnani Family Foundation established roots within the state of Utah with the founding of Maliheh Free Clinic in 2005 to provide free healthcare to thousands of uninsured people in the Salt Lake City area.

Where We Work

The Semnani Family Foundation focuses primarily on promoting health, education, and disaster relief for marginalized communities all around the world. Driven by a clear mission to adapt and serve at the global level, we have leveraged our resources to make a meaningful impact in the following countries so far:

• Afghanistan
• Bosnia
• Colombia
• England
• Ethiopia
• Ghana
• Guatemala
• India
• Iran
• Kenya
• Madagascar
• Mali
• Mexico
• Pakistan
• Philippines
• Romania
• Somalia
• South Africa
• Tanzania
• Tonga
• Uganda
• United States
• Yemen

At the heart of the Foundation lies a fervent commitment to human welfare, always prioritizing health and the needs of society’s most vulnerable.

Grants will be awarded in the following categories:

Education Programs: Grants in this category will provide a unique opportunity that allows schools, teachers and students to fund projects and programs geared toward improving education outcomes for students.

Innovation and Technology: Grants in this category will be used to support innovative teaching strategies and/or technology that improve student performance.

Nutrition and Fitness: Grants in this category will create or enhance access to nutrition information/healthy eating habits or create programming that improves overall nutrition and fitness outcomes for students.

School & Campus Improvements: Grants in this category will address campus improvements that provide a safe and enhanced environment for learning or outdoor play. In addition, schools are encouraged to apply for grants that improve campus icons that are a source of brand identification or school pride.

The applications are read and scored by a panel of Arizona Diamondbacks employees and University of Phoenix employees. Applications should be detailed and provide specific information regarding the impact the program or project will have on students. The scoring is based on the panel’s understanding of the following information based on the application:

• Overall Program/Project Description: The program or project should demonstrate need, innovation and/or creativity.
• Education, Character or Environment Impact: The program or project should positively impact learning, the character and inclusiveness of the student population and/or the learning environment for students.
• Budget/Demonstration of Need: The budget narrative in the application should clearly describe how the grant money will be spent and the amount should be in line with the program impact.All applications will be evaluated by the Foundation to determine financial need in an applicable Category. The Foundation will assess each application and may, in its sole and absolute discretion, award a Grant to a school.

The Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation and University of Phoenix will select winning schools to each receive an estimated $5,000 grant for a total estimated charitable impact of $100,000. 

Overall Program/Project Description: The program or project should demonstrate need, innovation and/or creativity.

Education, Character or Environment Impact: The program or project should positively impact learning, the character and inclusiveness of the student population and/or the learning environment for students.

Ameriprise Financial Grantmaking

At Ameriprise Financial, giving back is deeply rooted in our culture. We’ve initiated positive change in the communities where we live and work for more than 120 years. We believe our community involvement enables us to actively live our values. Through grant making, volunteerism and employee and financial advisor gift matching programs, we support a diverse group of over 6,000 nonprofits across the country.

Focus Areas

Awarding grant dollars to nonprofits is one way we strengthen our communities and help individuals on a path to financial independence. To ensure we're meeting the needs of our communities and making an even greater collective impact, we focus on three key giving areas when awarding grants.

Volunteer engagement is a priority across all focus areas:

The engagement of Ameriprise employees and financial advisors is a critical component of our philanthropy. Whether it’s serving on a nonprofit board, engaging friends, clients and community members in volunteering or providing skills-based support, our relationships with nonprofits go deep. For this reason, we give priority across all focus areas to applications where there is active volunteer engagement of Ameriprise advisors and employees. 

Meeting Basic Needs

At Ameriprise Financial, we help clients achieve financial security and peace of mind. That’s satisfying, meaningful work. We also help the people in our neighborhoods who struggle to meet basic needs such as where their next meal comes from, where they’ll sleep tonight or how they’ll find a higher wage job. We’re here to help them through the three platforms of our Meeting Basic Needs focus area.

Consideration is given to applications addressing the following: 

• Hunger
• Food banks, food shelves and food pantries, daily meal programs or meal services for the homebound
• Hunger-relief programs targeted to meet the special needs of children, ethnic populations or veterans
• Food programs run by nonprofits where hunger is not their sole focus, for example a youth meal program at the YWCA or a backpack program run by a Boys & Girls Club
• Shelter
• Emergency shelter, including youth homelessness
• Transitional housing, permanent supportive housing and efforts to end chronic homelessness
• Housing-first models (programs quickly providing housing and then addressing needed services)
• Achieving and maintaining home ownership, repair and maintenance efforts helping keep seniors, veterans and other populations in their homes 
• Adult Self-Sufficiency: Programs serving adults age 21 and older that help address the following areas:
• Basic hard and soft skills that help adults achieve economic and family stability
• Basic financial and budgeting skills
• Increase employability and wages, including work readiness and job transitions
• Employment of disabled adults

Supporting Community Vitality

We believe communities should be strong, healthy and resilient. We want livable places for all, where neighbors look out for one another, cultural events are well-attended and people pull together in times of crisis and joy. We work to create economic vitality and cultural enrichment through the following areas of focus.

Consideration is given to applications addressing the following: 

• Community Development
• Neighborhood revitalization
• Economic development
• Strengthening and supporting small businesses and nonprofits through technical expertise
• Cultural Enrichment
• Arts education
• Access for underserved populations
• Diverse artists and performances that spark topical community conversations 

Volunteer Driven Causes: Ameriprise employees and financial advisors are outstanding volunteers who serve in teams and also as individuals bringing personal skill-sets to nonprofits. Volunteering is part of the culture at Ameriprise and we are proud to support communities through contributions of both service and financial resources. 

Funding for Volunteer-Driven Causes is determined by current Ameriprise volunteerism. In general, funding is in proportion to the size of the Ameriprise volunteer team supporting a nonprofit. A team may include employees, financial advisors and/or staff or a combination of any Ameriprise volunteers. 

The Phoenix Industrial Development Authority (Phoenix IDA) and the Phoenix Community Development & Investment Corporation are partnering with the Arizona Community Foundation (ACF) to administer the Community Development Fund to provide investments to nonprofit organizations located within Phoenix and Maricopa County. The funds will be invested in Phoenix and throughout Maricopa County to support quality, strategic grant proposals in four priority areas: Affordable Housing, Economic/Community Development, Health Innovation, and Youth & Family Development. Where appropriate, other funding sources may be encouraged to leverage the grant and maximize impact of the Community Development Funds

The Phoenix IDA and PCDIC prefers to avoid relationships which can make an applicant dependent upon the Community Development Funds for the administration of a project or program over a period of years. The proven ability to build sustainable programs is of critical importance.

Target Audience

Only Proposals supporting the below focus areas will be accepted. Please review the priorities of each area to ensure your organization is eligible to apply to this funding opportunity

• Affordable Housing
• Economic/Community Development
• Health Innovation,
• Youth & Family Development.

Affordable Housing

This fund will make investments supporting housing and housing related matters. Programs, projects or services that address homeownership, neighborhood revitalization, homebuyer counseling, homebuyer education, home rehabilitation and foreclosure prevention are examples of requests that may be considered. 

Economic/Community Development

This fund will consider Investments in programs that revitalize the Phoenix community in the areas of economic development, supportive and affordable housing, economic success initiatives for the working-poor, and workforce development projects supporting self-sufficiency including but not limited to work readiness, job placement assistance and/or occupational skills training

Health Innovation

This fund will make investments in overall community health, emerging programs that facilitate jobs in health care. In addition, special consideration will be given to providing funding for programs that increase access to healthcare and primary prevention programs for low to moderate income populations.

Youth and Family Development

This fund will make investments to support high quality initiatives and the most innovative collaborations in schools or school districts that focus on one or more of the following areas: 

• Improving academic rigor and relevance for all students
• Early childhood education systems
• Increasing access to a postsecondary education for all students
• Parent engagement

Preference will be given to initiatives that evidence sustainability beyond the grant cycle and establish or strengthen district or system wide collaborations. 

Definition

The Summer Youth Program Fund (SYPF) is an independent grantmaking program founded and managed by local funders who support, or are interested in supporting, agencies that provide summer programming for Maricopa County youth. The purpose of the SYPF is to supplement existing programs in order to enrich, enhance and expand summer offerings for children and youth.

Grants will be made to organizations that match the criteria of individual funders participating in the collaboration. Collaborators include the Arizona Community Foundation (ACF), Arizona Republic Season for Sharing, BHHS Legacy Foundation, Helios Education Foundation, Hickey Family Foundation, Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust, Phoenix Suns Charities, The Steele Foundation, Thunderbirds Charities and The Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust. Some funders have restrictions on multiple annual requests. If you believe this may be applicable, we suggest you contact the funder directly.

Why it is important

The SYPF recognizes that summer programs, particularly those serving economically disadvantaged youth, require financial assistance to provide creative and recreational outlets while fostering personal development and life-long learning.

During out of school time, young people tend to engage in the highest levels of health-harming behaviors. Targeted programs provide a continuum of care during the summer months and offer opportunities for youth to develop and sustain enriching and healthy lifestyle activities that will divert them from negative behaviors.

Benefits

The collaborative program simplifies grant seeking for nonprofit organizations. The program design makes grantmaking more efficient for local nonprofits to obtain the necessary funds for their summer programs by using a single application form, one collective process and a single report. Additionally, it will allow a large number of funders to become more familiar with organizations providing summer youth programming.

Recognizing that many local nonprofits have small staffs, the SYPF collaborative effort allows staff to focus on youth programs by eliminating the duplication of efforts in applying separately to each funder.

What types of programs may be funded?

Program activities can be varied, centering on personal youth development, arts and culture, recreation and physical activity, environment/nature, disability or academic/educational.

Organizations with a focus on artistic and academic programs are encouraged to apply with innovative ways to decrease sedentary activities and increase knowledge of healthy lifestyles. Recognizing that youth-serving organizations shape the environment of our youth, the SYPF will encourage all applicants to play a role in addressing the trend of childhood overweight/obesity through implementation of proper nutrition practices and opportunities to be physically active.

The SYPF encourages collaborative efforts amongst organizations with similar goals, increase service capacities, and expand outreach to touch the lives of more youth of Maricopa County.

Specific funding priorities

• Serve disadvantaged youth from neighborhoods with limited access to organized activities
• Serve youth with disabilities or special health needs
• Exhibit stable history of community support, outreach, and partnerships
• Demonstrate ability to increase number of youth served
• Provide age-appropriate, enriching activities and education components
• Identify areas to improve quality of program and increase positive impact to participants
• Establish realistic outcomes for the program participants
• Create innovative methods to reach youth and instill healthy lifestyle behaviors
• Collaborate among fellow grant seekers

Funding request range

The SYPF will award approximately $615,000 in grants ranging from $5,000 to $25,000. The maximum grant is $25,000. The average grant award may vary based on the number of applications received and competitive nature of the cycle. 

Community Partnership Award

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award recognizes outstanding nonprofit organizations in the United States that have shown exemplary leadership by facilitating partnerships with public, private or social sector leaders who are working together as equal partners, not as donors and recipients, to build a cohesive community that serves as a model for collaborating with others for the greater good.

Each year, the Mutual of America Foundation sponsors a national competition in which hundreds of organizations demonstrate the value of their partnership to the communities they serve, their ability to be replicated by others and their capacity to stimulate new approaches to addressing significant social issues.

Six organizations are selected by an independent committee to receive the Community Partnership Award.

• The Thomas J. Moran Award is given to the national award-winning program and includes $100,000 and a documentary video about the program.
• The Frances R. Hesselbein Award is given to a partnership that is addressing social challenges in more than one community, or which demonstrates the potential to be replicated in other communities. This recipient receives $75,000.
• Four other organizations are named Honorable Mention recipients for their programs, and each receives $50,000.

Since its inception in 1996, the Community Partnership Award has recognized 262 partnerships from cities and towns across America. Like so many of our clients working in the nonprofit community, Mutual of America is dedicated to having a direct, positive impact on society.

Our Mission

Our mission is to continue and further the philanthropic legacy of Gardner Cowles, Jr. and the Cowles family, which includes promotion of education, social justice, health, and the arts.

The Founder

The Cowles Charitable Trust was first established in 1948 by Gardner “Mike” Cowles, Jr. (1903-1985). Born into the Cowles publishing family of Des Moines, Iowa, Mike was the youngest of Gardner Cowles and Florence Call Cowles’ six children. A newspaper editor and publisher by trade, he was committed to his family’s traditions of responsible, public-spirited, and innovative journalism as well as philanthropy. 

The Cowles Charitable Trust supports the arts, education, the advancement of ethical journalism, medical and climate research.

About the Foundation

Jesse W. Couch lived a life of zeal, honor, and dedication to the betterment of his community. The Couch family now humbly stewards the foundation he created to carry on his legacy of service for future generations. We believe that impact is best accomplished through partnerships with local organizations that know the people and communities they serve. We invest in and support efforts to protect the environment, further conservation and preservation initiatives, and save historical architecture that preserves community heritage. We also support initiatives that promote wellness and mental health and organizations seeking to provide and further education for all communities.

Annual Grant Focus

Each year, we seek to partner with and support non-profit organizations making an impact in the focus areas listed here. 

The focus area for this year is Wildlife Conservation. We believe it's our duty to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. We envision a world where everyone works in harmony to protect what is important so that all life on this planet can thrive.

Our Mission

Our mission is to maximize the leverage of philanthropic dollars, time, and effort through the pursuit of two strategies:

• to increase philanthropic resources by supporting organizations, programs and projects that serve primarily to encourage philanthropy, public service and/or volunteerism; and
• to increase philanthropic impact by encouraging and supporting long-term collaborations among nonprofits working in the same or complementary areas in order to increase efficiency and/or impact and to reduce duplication of efforts, and the adoption of other sound business practices.

Our Grant Philosophy

The Lodestar Foundation is focused in its grantmaking and will consider funding only organizations, projects, and programs that further our mission, although we also choose to support special projects from time to time. Moreover, our grants are designed to fully leverage our assets as much as possible. Not only do we try to maximize strategic impact by focusing on projects that support systemic changes in the way nonprofits conduct business, but we also often leverage our funds by establishing challenge and matching grant requirements which may be applicable to our grantees and their boards as well as third parties. We require our grantees to report to us periodically for at least two (2) years after funding to let us know how the grant has impacted their work.

In addition to making direct grants, we also engage in field-building activities to build knowledge and to educate others in the areas of encouraging philanthropy and fostering collaboration.

Strategic Funding Areas

Encouraging Philanthropy

To implement our strategy of encouraging philanthropy, we focus on strengthening organizations that primarily exist to encourage philanthropy, volunteerism, or public service generally for the public good. We support donor networks as well as nonprofits that have as a primary mission the desire to generally (a) grow philanthropy, (b) promote the concept of volunteerism (but not individual volunteer programs), or (c) support, encourage or train citizens to participate in public service.

Collaboration 

We support those nonprofits that have made the joint decision to explore and/or implement permanent relationships. We support sustained collaborations of all types, ranging from joint programming to administrative consolidations (sharing office space and/or services) to mergers and acquisitions to associations and confederations. We also initiate and support efforts to build resources and knowledge about collaboration as a strategic capacity-building tool for nonprofits.

Special Projects

In addition to our two strategic funding areas, we make investments in a number of important projects that deserve to be highlighted. A number of our grants in these project areas qualify as Philanthropy and Collaboration grants and are listed in one of those two categories, as well as being listed as Special Projects.

Doing our part to make a difference in the world

The idea of community goes far beyond the cities and neighborhoods where Avnet operates. We think of a community as any group of people who share a desire to make a positive difference, wherever and whenever they can. Through Avnet Cares, our company’s philanthropic and volunteer program, our employees go beyond achieving business and financial goals. They make a positive impact around the world.

Our focus areas include STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), Environment and Communities in Crisis.

Avnet Care: Giving Focus

STEM

Support for youth programs that lead to career paths in science, technology, engineering and math with a preference for programs that serve traditionally under-resourced communities.

Environment

Support for programs that provide innovative pathways to sustainability, with a preference for programs that incorporate technology.

Communities in Crisis

Support for programs that provide direct assistance to the community for basic needs such as food, shelter and clothing.

The Arizona Housing Fund provides funding for permanent supportive housing projects that serve the most vulnerable individuals and families earning up to 30% AMI (Area Median Income). Funding is distributed on a first come, first served basis for mission-aligned projects.

Background

The Arizona Housing Fund is a dedicated and sustainable revenue source that grants funding to nonprofit agencies that build and operate Permanent Supportive, Low-Income, and Working Poor Housing. Our equity grants will enable more housing units to be constructed, meeting the growing needs of our communities in Arizona with the goal of reducing the number of people experiencing homelessness.

Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) Phoenix is a partner of the Arizona Housing Fund providing underwriting and other services to the fund. LISC Phoenix is collecting and processing this application. All communication about your application will come from a LISC Phoenix program officer. 

BHHS Legacy Foundation Grant

Since 2001, BHHS Legacy Foundation and Legacy Connection have supported projects, programs, and organizations that improve health and quality of life for those in our community who are most in need. Our funding focuses on four key areas: increasing access to healthcare; improving community health; expanding Arizona’s healthcare workforce; and strengthening the community.

What We Do

BHHS Legacy Foundation is always searching for and supporting new programs that help to improve the health and healthcare of all Arizonans. To do that, we develop grantmaking strategies designed to meet very specific goals.

What We Fund

We take a practical, long-term approach to helping organizations that sustain and improve the health of Arizona’s children and families by awarding grants to programs and services that:

• Increase Access to Healthcare
• Improve Community Health
• Expand Arizona's Healthcare Workforce
• Strengthen the Community