Best Guernsey County Grants for Nonprofits in Ohio

The Foundation for Appalachian Ohio, in collaboration with the Longaberger Family Foundation, is dedicated to enhancing K-12 civics education across Appalachian Ohio. Since 2019, over $95,000 has been granted to empower students through engaging civics programs. The funding is available to K-12 public schools, educators, and nonprofit organizations, focusing on projects that foster civic engagement and community involvement among students in the region's 32 counties.

Environmental Stewardship: Research Grants

FAO, through its Environmental Stewardship Pillar of Prosperity Fund, offers funding opportunities to advance conservation, environmental stewardship and the greater well-being of Appalachian Ohio.

FAO welcomes proposals for projects that result in scalable change, with a priority for projects that will impact multiple counties. FAO will consider funding requests between $5,000 and $50,000 per project, and at least $150,000 is available to award. We encourage applicants to propose research with the potential to significantly impact the understanding of aquatic biodiversity, water quality and threats to healthy habitats. The following examples illustrate eligible projects, but proposals are not limited to the listed areas.

• Flood resilience
• Watershed monitoring, analysis and management applications
• Application of innovative technologies and methodologies
• Collaborative research partnerships across disciplines and sectors
• Ecosystem services

Environmental Stewardship: Innovation Grants

FAO, through its Environmental Stewardship Pillar of Prosperity Fund, offers funding opportunities to advance conservation, environmental stewardship and the greater well-being of Appalachian Ohio.

Innovation grants invest in new and creative solutions that result in environmental good while encouraging environmental stewardship. Possibilities include areas such as upcycling materials or developing approaches to harmonize energy, economics, environment and health. FAO will also consider strategic initiatives and planning for communities leveraging larger funds. Innovation grants can support pilot projects that increase the region’s capacity to improve air quality; water quality; green energy generation, storage and adoption; and diesel emission reduction. At least $20,000 is available to support innovation grants.

Funding Areas

Foster greater community involvement (schools, nonprofits, businesses, etc.) in sustainable initiatives and projects with high impact across multiple sectors, including energy, economics, environment and health.

Support innovative projects that focus on developing new or improving upon existing methods for reducing and redesigning materials, driving forward-thinking solutions that benefit communities and the environment.

Strengthen the ability of local organizations to secure substantial funding from state, federal and national programs. Increasing access to these resources will amplify the impact of projects focused on large-scale and innovative approaches to cleaner air, cleaner water, green energy adoption and diesel emission reduction.

Spectrum Digital Education Grants support nonprofit organizations in educating communities about broadband benefits and usage. These grants aim to bridge the digital divide, particularly for seniors and those with disabilities or ethnically diverse backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate community partnership, address specific needs, and provide measurable impact metrics. With a focus on financial feasibility and meaningful outcomes, this initiative ensures that underrepresented urban and rural communities gain access to essential digital resources, fostering long-term improvement in their lives.

The Donald R. Myers Legacy Fund Grant, administered by the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio, provides essential funding for nonprofit and public organizations in Appalachian Ohio. With a focus on enhancing quality of life through education, community leadership, and basic needs fulfillment, this fund supports collaborative projects across 32 counties. Thanks to contributions like the $10,000 from Columbia Gas of Ohio, the fund aims to make a lasting impact in the region, fostering growth and development.

Black-led and Black-serving nonprofit and public organizations in Guernsey County, Ohio can seek US $500 - US $5,000 to support African American communities through arts and culture, education, health, human services, community development, and environmental stewardship projects. With a mission to strengthen Appalachian Ohio, Foundation for Appalachian Ohio provides flexible funding across 32 counties, including Guernsey.

Catholic Extension's Enhancing Pastoral and Social Ministry Grants aim to empower the church to broaden its outreach and foster societal transformation through targeted pastoral and social initiatives. This program supports specific elements of the church's ministerial efforts, including funding for catechetical resources, marriage and family ministries, and social outreach for vulnerable populations. By investing in these areas, Catholic Extension seeks to enhance the church's role in communities, especially following disasters.

Nestlé Purina is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of pets and the communities they serve. Through their event sponsorship program, they support 501(c)(3) tax-exempt pet welfare organizations in the U.S. that focus on the welfare of cats and dogs. Eligible events must be located within 50 miles of their St. Louis headquarters, ensuring that their contributions directly benefit local communities. Purina's commitment to pets and people strengthens the bond between them.

Nonprofit and community organizations providing fatherhood and family services in Guernsey County, Ohio can seek support to strengthen father engagement and parenting. The Responsible Fatherhood Initiative funds county-based programming, media outreach, and partnerships that equip fathers with tools and resources to improve outcomes for children and families; awards up to US $300,000.

Grants from Makulinski Family Foundation help Guernsey County, Ohio nonprofits and charities fund education, community services, and environmental initiatives. Organizations can request support for local or international projects, with the foundation matching investments of time or money at varying ratios. Rotary-associated proposals may receive particular consideration within this flexible, impact-focused program.

Grants from Nestlé Purina help Guernsey County, Ohio animal welfare nonprofits fund pet welfare initiatives. Eligible 501(c)(3) pet welfare organizations in the U.S., particularly near company locations, may receive support for capacity building, capital improvements, and program or spay/neuter funding. Organizations may only apply once per calendar year.

The Catholic School Leadership Development Grant Program aims to cultivate and retain promising leaders within the Catholic school system. In partnership with Loyola Marymount University, this initiative offers a graduate-level online Certificate in Catholic School Administration, covering 80% of tuition costs and providing funding for essential travel. The one-year program focuses on mission effectiveness, operational management, and instructional leadership, requiring participants to serve two years in their diocese post-completion, thereby enhancing local educational leadership.

Southeast Ohio Health and Wellness Foundation Fund community grants

The Southeast Ohio Health and Wellness Foundation Fund community grants program supports health and wellness activities in the fund’s eight-county service area, which includes Belmont, Coshocton, Guernsey, Harrison, Monroe, Muskingum, Noble and Tuscarawas counties.

About the fund

Established in 2023, the Southeast Ohio Health and Wellness Foundation Fund awards grants and scholarships that support health and wellness activities in the fund’s eight-county service area.

Guernsey County, Ohio first responder organizations can access funding through Enbridge for safety equipment, professional training, and safety education programs. Eligible fire departments, EMS and rescue services, emergency management, 9-1-1 centers, ambulance services, and law enforcement near Enbridge operations may receive US $1,000 - US $10,000, with higher support possible for qualifying national organizations.

The Area Development Grant Program, managed by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), supports economic growth in Appalachia through investments in critical infrastructure and workforce development. Targeting 423 counties across 13 states, the program encourages local communities to collaborate with state governments to identify and implement impactful projects. Key focus areas include enhancing utilities, promoting entrepreneurship, and strengthening local leadership. This initiative aims to uplift the 26 million residents of Appalachia, fostering sustainable economic opportunities.

The ARISE Grants, offered by the Appalachian Regional Commission, aim to drive regional economic transformation across 13 Appalachian states. With funding of up to $63.5 million for implementation grants and $10 million maximum awards, the initiative supports collaborative projects that enhance community capacity and economic growth. The program encourages innovative partnerships to strengthen local economies and achieve socioeconomic parity, benefiting over 26 million residents in the Appalachian Region.

The Francis Grants, established by Catholic Extension, offer funding for significant events in poor mission dioceses, such as the ordination of new Bishops, anniversaries, or papal visits. These grants also support educational endeavors for Bishops. Named in honor of Francis Clement Kelly, Francis Cardinal George OMI, and Pope Francis, the program aims to strengthen the Catholic faith across the U.S. Since 1905, Catholic Extension has invested over $500 million to assist communities in need.

The John W. and Edna McManus Shepard Fund, managed by The Columbus Foundation, supports cultural and economic initiatives that enhance the quality of life for residents in Cambridge and Guernsey County. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations that serve these communities. This fund aims to foster community development and enrich local culture through various programs and projects.

Nonprofit organizations and folk or traditional artists in Guernsey County, Ohio can receive US $1,000 - US $7,000 to create new or expanded public folk and traditional arts projects and events. Mid Atlantic Arts supports workshops, performances, exhibitions, media projects, and other public-facing activities that share cultural knowledge and living traditions in ARC-designated Appalachian counties.

The Ohio Forest Legacy Program aims to protect vital forests from conversion to non-forest uses through conservation easements. This partnership between the State and USDA Forest Service encourages landowners to participate voluntarily in preserving working forests, which are essential for biodiversity, water quality, and economic productivity. The program also promotes the management of forests for timber harvesting while maintaining ecological benefits, ensuring sustainable land use practices for future generations.

The Volunteer Fire Assistance (VFA) Grant Program, administered by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, provides a 50/50 cost-share opportunity aimed at enhancing rural fire departments. Eligible departments can secure funding for essential wildland fire equipment, personal protective gear, and communication devices. Grants are capped at $10,000, promoting community collaboration while ensuring departments meet specific eligibility requirements. This initiative supports the vital role of fire services in protecting Ohio's communities and natural resources.

Guernsey County organizations providing open-door shared-ride transit for seniors and people with disabilities can access funding through the Ohio Department of Transportation to contract with local transportation providers. This Section 5310 program reimburses 80% of eligible contracted transportation capital costs, requiring a 20% local match from non-U.S. DOT sources.

The PNC Foundation's Grow Up Great Grant is a significant initiative aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for children from birth to age 5. With a commitment of $500 million, this program focuses on improving school readiness through support in vocabulary development, social-emotional learning, and the arts. By partnering with community-based nonprofits, PNC aims to foster stronger, smarter, and healthier communities, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.

With a mission to provide a safe, accessible transportation system, Ohio Department of Transportation provides Guernsey County organizations serving seniors and people with disabilities with operating assistance for specialized transit services. Eligible subrecipients in small urban and rural areas can receive reimbursement for up to 50% of day-to-day transportation operating costs, including open-door shared-ride services.

The CALT Emerging Traditional Artists Program, funded by Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation, supports early-career Appalachian traditional artists with $5,000 grants and personalized professional development. Artists engage in learning opportunities, including workshops and mentorship, to enhance their skills. Eligible applicants must be traditional artists from designated Appalachian counties in Ohio, Virginia, or West Virginia, at least 18 years old, and in good standing with Mid Atlantic Arts. This initiative fosters cultural preservation and artistic growth in the region.

Public and nonprofit organizations in Guernsey County, Ohio can seek funding for conservation and environmental stewardship projects that enhance community well-being. With a mission to advance environmental stewardship in Appalachian Ohio, Foundation for Appalachian Ohio provides support for locally driven efforts such as environmental education, green infrastructure, parks, beautification, and outdoor recreation initiatives.

The Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization (POWER) Initiative aims to revitalize communities impacted by coal industry transitions. This initiative provides funding for projects that diversify local economies, enhance job training, and create new employment opportunities. By fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, the POWER Initiative supports strategic investments that align with regional economic development plans, ensuring a more resilient future for coal-affected areas.