Grant money is available for some student organizations and sports programs.
Nonprofit school organizations that need money for after-school sports or academic programs may be eligible to apply for a grant from a private or corporate foundation. Most foundations stipulate that grant money cannot be used for salaries or general operating expenses. However, funds can be used to buy equipment, implement new programs or improve existing ones. Many foundations give first priority to organizations located near their headquarters, branches or factories.
Charlotte Martin Foundation
Seattle-based Charlotte Martin Foundation gives grants up to $20,000 to schools and nonprofit organizations that help children and teens develop skills in athletics and the arts. Programs must serve children between the ages of 6 to 18 in Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington.
In 2008, grant money was used to develop a track program for 8- to 12-year-old girls, build soccer fields, establish an after-school ski club, implement a young actor's workshop, create youth writing workshops, support a summer fiddle camp and sponsor an after-school chess program.
Applications, which are available on the foundation's website, must be submitted online. They are accepted throughout the year.
Finish Line Youth Foundation
Youth-oriented nonprofit organizations located near Finish Line stores that seek funds for youth sports or wellness programs can apply for grants from the Finish Line Youth Foundation. Athletic programs and camps should be designed for children under 18 years and promote team building and healthy lifestyles.
Average grant amounts range from $1,000 to 5,000. Applications must be submitted online. Quarterly submission deadlines are March 31, June 30, September 30 and December 31.
H.B. Fuller Foundation
School organizations that want to develop or enhance after-school clubs or programs in science, technology, engineering or math can apply for a grant from the H.B. Fuller Foundation.
Although the program is open to any nonprofit organization, preference is given to groups located in the same community as a H.B. Fuller manufacturing plant or facility. There are H.B. Fuller facilities in 11 states: California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, Ohio, Texas and Washington.
Past grants have supported a science fair, a summer math camp, arts and culture programs, an after-school electronics club and a Science Olympiad program.
The H.B. Fuller website has downloadable applications.
The Foundation reviews grant proposals and applications twice per year. Proposals must be postmarked by March 30 to be included in the first review or by August 28 to be included in the second review.
Target Field Trip Grants
Science, math and other academic after-school groups may be eligible for field trip grants available through Target. Field trips must have an educational component and enhance lessons taught in class or during an after-school session.
In 2009, Target gave 5,000 schools up to $800 to cover field trip admission and transportation costs. For example, past grants have covered costs for field trips to a rock and mineral museum and an aquarium.
Field trip proposals are accepted from August 1 to September 30 each year. Grant recipients are notified on January 1. An application is available on the Target website.
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