Best School Health Grants in Kansas

BOK Charitable Contributions aims to enhance community life and economic wellbeing across several states, focusing on four key pillars: United Way, economic development, education, and basic needs. The foundation supports organizations that address poverty, education, and community health. Their strategic approach ensures impactful contributions, and they welcome grant applications year-round. BOK Financial's commitment is evident in its partnerships with local nonprofits, fostering sustainable growth and development in the regions they serve.

About Us

Every day, we're working to empower Kansas to lead the nation in health.

Request a Sponsorship

Beyond grantmaking, KHF is constantly looking for ways to further support the communities, organizations, schools, churches and people of Kansas. Each year, we have a limited amount of funding available to sponsor events, efforts or initiatives.

If you’d like to apply for sponsorship support from KHF, please fill out the form at the bottom of the page.

A few notes about our decision making:

• The earlier you apply for funding, the better. If you have an event in mid-May, and the form isn’t submitted until late April, it makes it very difficult to turn around an approval in time.
• One of the questions on the application form asks for which regions of Kansas will be served by the initiative. For the purpose of this application, please refer to the Economic Development Districts outlined by the Kansas Department of Commerce. Which counties fall into which regions are indicated on this map.
• We will also evaluate submissions based on how well they fit into our strategic framework.

Russell County Area Community Foundation

The Russell County Area Community Foundation is an Affiliate Foundation of Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation with all funds managed by GNWKCF.

At the Russell County Area Community Foundation, we believe in hometowns and preserving our rural way of life. Our mission is to help people invest in meaningful ways to make a difference in the community by building permanent endowment funds and meeting charitable community needs. RCACF was founded in 2001 to benefit the communities in the Russell County area. We are an affiliate of Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation, a 501c3 organization. This helps us effectively pool resources with other foundations for community growth. Our local board of directors provides leadership on decisions that directly impact our communities.

Russell Area Youth Activities Fund

Helping Youth Participate, Learn & Thrive

Removing financial barriers so every child has the opportunity to grow, explore, and succeed.

The Russell Area Youth Activities Fund is designed to promote the health and well-being of children and to encourage healthy lifestyles through involvement in extra-curricular activities, including athletics, performing arts, visual arts, and literacy programs.

Important Information

• Applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
• Financial need must be demonstrated.
• Grant payments are made directly to the activity provider on behalf of the child.

How Can the Russell Area Youth Activities Fund Help?

The fund provides financial assistance so local youth can participate in activities they might otherwise be unable to afford. 

The Leadership Transformation Grants, provided by the Kansas Leadership Center, aim to foster leadership in Kansas communities. This program offers training and a framework to help organizations embrace change and tackle challenges effectively. By enhancing leadership at all levels, the initiative promotes a more engaged workforce and drives positive cultural change. It is open to civically engaged organizations across various sectors, including education, faith, government, and nonprofit, seeking to mobilize their teams for meaningful progress.

The Community Facilities Grant Program in Kansas provides essential funding to develop crucial community facilities in rural areas, enhancing quality of life. Eligible entities include public bodies and non-profits in areas with populations under 20,000. Funding can cover construction, improvement, or equipment purchases for facilities such as health care centers, community support services, and educational institutions. This program aims to support rural development, ensuring access to necessary services for all residents.

The Phillips County Unrestricted Endowment Fund offers a matching grant to support fundraising events for non-profits serving Phillips County, Kansas. With a match of $1 for every dollar raised, up to $50,000, this initiative encourages community investment in local projects. Eligible projects include enhancements to public spaces, health care initiatives, educational programs, and efforts to improve public health and safety. Grants are available monthly, promoting collaboration and growth within the community.

The Penn National Gaming Foundation Grants support various community initiatives across North America, emphasizing education, health services, and cultural affairs. Launched post-Hurricane Katrina, the foundation aids local nonprofits, enhancing community development, public safety, and veteran support. The grants cater to organizations that address the needs of children, senior citizens, and disadvantaged populations, ensuring a broad impact in areas where Penn National Gaming operates. This commitment reflects the foundation's dedication to uplifting communities and fostering resilience.

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas Foundation offers Healthy Habits for Life Grants to support schools in promoting healthy lifestyle choices for K-12 students. With a maximum grant of $2,000 per school, programs may include initiatives that reduce cardiovascular risk, increase physical activity, and reinforce positive mental health. Schools are encouraged to collaborate on unique projects, such as gardens, health fairs, and fitness activities, aiming to instill lifelong healthy habits in students.

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program by the Arbor Day Foundation promotes the importance of trees on college campuses, enhancing both the environment and student well-being. It provides universities with a framework to achieve recognition for their commitment to campus tree care and community engagement. By fostering green spaces, the program not only improves campus aesthetics but also contributes to energy savings and the mental health of students, while educating future generations about environmental stewardship.

The KS AmeriCorps Operational Grant, managed by the Kansas Volunteer Commission, aims to enhance community service by funding organizations that engage AmeriCorps members in impactful interventions. This grant prioritizes educational outcomes, poverty alleviation, rural support, social justice, and youth development. Successful applicants must demonstrate that their programs align significantly with these priorities. While priority consideration is given, it does not guarantee funding, emphasizing the competitive nature of the grant.

The KS AmeriCorps Planning Grant empowers organizations in Kansas to develop effective AmeriCorps programs aimed at addressing community needs. This grant supports planning for a subsequent operational grant application cycle (2026-2027). Key priorities include education, poverty alleviation, support for rural communities, social justice, and youth development. By leveraging these grants, organizations can enhance their readiness to serve and make a significant impact in their communities.

The Patterson Family Foundation invites innovative proposals aimed at enhancing healthcare in rural communities. Registration is required before applying, with deadlines for the first and second rounds set for April 18 and July 3, 2025, respectively. The foundation, dedicated to helping rural areas thrive, particularly encourages projects that test new models to expand maternal care, promoting better health outcomes and long-term impact in these underserved regions.

The Preventative Care Access Grant from the Patterson Family Foundation aims to enhance healthcare delivery models in rural communities across Kansas and western Missouri. Organizations eligible for funding can develop innovative solutions such as mobile health and telehealth services to improve access to care. Registration is required before submitting a Letter of Intent (LOI), with deadlines set for April and July 2025. This initiative supports projects that directly benefit the foundation's target areas.

The Specialty Care Access Grant Program, managed by the Patterson Family Foundation, aims to enhance access to specialty medical services in rural communities of Kansas and western Missouri. Organizations eligible for funding include nonprofits, school districts, and government entities serving these areas. The program emphasizes collaboration with local leaders to ensure quality healthcare access for communities, particularly in maternal care, oncology, and mental health, while encouraging early submission of proposals for timely review.

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Scholarship Program

The community foundation offers a wide variety of scholarships for students, provided by the generosity of local donors. Whether you are a high school senior, a current college student, or a non-traditional student we work with donors to help you take the next step in your education.

Jody & Doyle Fredrickson Nursing & Health Scholarship

For graduating seniors or graduates from a high school within the Dane G. Hansen Foundation service area, which is defined as the 26 counties in northwest Kansas north of I-70 and west of I-135/Hwy 81, who are pursuing a major in nursing or another health-related field. Preference will be given to students who are graduates of or who are qualified to graduate from Decatur Community High School- Oberlin, KS.

Background

The family and friends of Jody Fredrickson, desiring to continue her memory, established a scholarship to a student for the purpose of promoting continued education. Preference is given to the nursing field, but all other health related fields will be considered.

Applicant will provide three letters of recommendation from: a member of the clergy, an educator and a person of his/her choice. 

Renewals

• This award is not renewable.

Rooted in rural.

Committed to your community

The Patterson Family Foundation, based in Kansas City, Missouri, is a family-led foundation that extends the legacy of Neal and Jeanne Patterson. The Foundation’s mission, “Working together to help rural communities thrive,” is carried forward through strategic grantmaking and other collaborative initiatives that serve rural counties across Kansas and western Missouri. 

Our Mission

Working together to help rural communities thrive.

Grant Types

Open Call Grants

Patterson Family Foundation’s Open Call Grants are publicly announced and submitted through the Grants Portal. Applications are reviewed using criteria aligned with the Foundation’s priorities, including community impact, feasibility, sustainability, and readiness to implement the proposed work in the Kansas or western Missouri rural community. 

This opportunity increases access to mental health support by expanding services, strengthening local care networks, and promoting prevention, harm reduction, and behavioral health education. Projects should create supportive environments that reduce stigma, increase awareness, and help residents access appropriate care. Applicants should plan to report on services delivered, residents served, improvements in access or awareness, and partnerships that enhance local mental health support.

The WKCF: Women of Purpose Grant aims to empower organizations addressing crucial issues affecting women in Western Kansas. By focusing on innovative projects that promote female leadership, mentorship, and community impact, this grant encourages collaboration and sustainability. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations serving specific Kansas counties. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that demonstrate broad community benefits and effective use of resources. Submit applications early to avoid technical issues and ensure consideration for funding.

The Jones/Goddard Scholarship Fund for Public Health offers a $750 scholarship to postgraduate students enrolled in a Master of Public Health program at accredited schools in Missouri or Kansas. Applicants must submit a letter of good standing, describe their work experience, and provide an essay along with a letter of recommendation. This initiative aims to support future public health leaders and enhance community well-being.

The George R. Tiller, M.D. Memorial Fund for the Advancement of Women’s Health supports Kansas nonprofits focused on reproductive health. The Fund aims to empower women through comprehensive health services and compassionate support. Grants are available for medical education, testing, research, and social programs that enhance women’s reproductive health. Eligible organizations must be IRS 501(c)(3) certified and in good standing with state regulations, ensuring funds reach those in need.

The Dr. George & Jeanne Tiller Fund Grant supports nonprofits in Kansas focused on advancing women's health. Since its inception, it has awarded over $1 million, emphasizing reproductive health services and education. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits in good standing. Grants range up to $25,000. The fund prioritizes projects that provide comprehensive health services, medical education, and support for women in need. Applications are subject to board approval, with specific exclusions for business expenses and advertisements.

Forever Friends Diana Lain Hughes Scholarship

The primary purpose of the Forever Friend Diana Lain Hughes Scholarship Fund is to provide annual scholarships to one or more graduating high school seniors or former graduates of the Shawnee Mission School District who demonstrate an interest in a career in teaching, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy or speech-language pathology.

Award

• $2,000

The Kansas Nursing Service Scholarship aims to foster enrollment in LPN and RN programs. Priority is given to Kansas residents who meet specific eligibility criteria, including being accepted into a nursing program and maintaining full-time enrollment. Award amounts range from $4,000 to $6,250 per school year, depending on the program and sponsorship status. Recipients commit to practicing nursing in Kansas for one year per year of assistance received, ensuring support for the state's healthcare needs.

The Courtney S. Turner Charitable Trust, established in 1978, supports public charitable and educational initiatives in the Atchison, Kansas community. Founded by Courtney S. Turner, a prominent local figure, the trust focuses on community improvement, education, health, and human services. It primarily funds 501(c)(3) organizations for specific projects with a one-year grant duration, ensuring a positive and lasting impact on the community.

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation is a leading philanthropic organization founded in 1978 that inspires and facilitates charitable giving to improve quality of life in the Greater Kansas City region and beyond. From its modest beginnings, the Foundation has grown into one of the nation’s most respected public charities, managing billions in charitable assets and administering thousands of funds for individuals, families, and businesses. Through donor-advised funds and other giving vehicles, it helps donors give strategically and effectively while providing education, leadership on key community issues, and personalized guidance that amplifies lasting community impact.

Bruce Culley and Linda Larkins Scholarship Fund

This scholarship fund supports students who graduated from a Northland-area school district—Liberty, North Kansas City, or Park Hill—and plan to attend Metropolitan Community College, with preference given to those enrolling at the Maple Woods campus. Eligible applicants should have an average or above-average GPA of 2.5 or higher, demonstrate perseverance in overcoming personal or economic challenges, and believe in the value of hard work as a pathway to upward mobility. The scholarship provides a $3,600 award to help students pursue their postsecondary education at MCC.

The Pew Biomedical Scholars Program offers significant funding of $300,000 over four years to support early-career researchers in biomedical sciences. The program encourages innovative and impactful research that contributes to human health, requiring nomination from one of the 212 participating institutions. Candidates must hold a doctorate, run an independent lab as an assistant professor, and demonstrate exceptional promise. This program fosters collaboration and annual meetings for scholars to present their findings.

The Knights of Columbus Endowment Fund, established to support the sick, disabled, and needy families in Pittsburg, Kansas, continues its mission through annual grants. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) charities, churches, schools, and government agencies. Grants support housing assistance, health services, and community improvements for vulnerable populations, ensuring their well-being and security. This initiative reflects the commitment of the Knights of Columbus to enhance the quality of life for those in need.

The DCCF LiveWell Community Wellness Grants aim to enhance the health of Douglas County residents by promoting healthy eating and active lifestyles. These grants support projects that align with the 2018-2023 Douglas County Community Health Plan, focusing on food security and healthy environments. Organizations can receive funding to implement policy changes or programs that foster collaboration and community health improvement, with grants ranging from $1,000 to $80,000.