Best Human and Social Service Grants in Ohio

Ohio human and social service nonprofits, public agencies, and qualifying educational institutions can seek funding for STEM education, basic needs like hunger and housing, and social justice initiatives. The American Electric Power Foundation supports eligible 501(c)(3) and public entities within AEP’s multi-state service territory, including Ohio, through an invitation-only application process initiated by local AEP operating companies.

The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits working in health and welfare, education, or community services, including those serving Ohio, can apply for Labcorp Charitable Foundation grants to support human and social service programs. Funding may cover food pantries, healthcare for underserved populations, STEM education, and initiatives promoting healthy lifestyles through research and screening.

Nonprofit and governmental organizations running humanitarian, social, education, or community programs that serve Ohio or provide nationwide U.S. support may be eligible for this funding. With a mission to advance community-focused initiatives, Amgen Foundation provides support for charitable programs and fundraising events outside the U.S. healthcare community.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

Ohio 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving children, families, and vulnerable community members can access funding through the Sam J Frankino Foundation for human and social service programs, including homelessness, poverty alleviation, domestic violence, and health care access. Additional support may be available for related education, disability services, disaster relief, and community initiatives, with awards of more than US $1,000.

Human and social service nonprofits serving communities below the Mason-Dixon line can apply for Robinson Foundation support for programs such as poverty relief, children and family services, disaster relief, education, medical assistance, and veterans’ issues. Grants are limited to U.S. 501(c)(3) organizations active for over three years; Ohio organizations are not eligible geographically.

Insperity's Corporate Contributions program emphasizes community involvement and corporate citizenship, providing philanthropic grants and event sponsorships to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Eligible organizations must engage Insperity employees or contribute to the communities where they operate. The program aims to support nonprofits in achieving their service goals and enhancing community welfare. Applications must be submitted 90 days prior to events, and funding requests can be made once a year.

Ohio human and social service nonprofits, along with other civic and charitable organizations, can seek funding for programs in Jefferson County through the Alfred & Lillie Dunlavey Charitable Trust. Focus areas include education, community development, health, human services, and related initiatives that improve quality of life for local residents.

Nonprofit and charitable organizations providing human and social services in Ohio, specifically serving Mansfield in Richland County, can seek support for charitable purposes through the Justine Sterkel Fund. This fund, managed as the Sterkel Fund Grant, may also support related work in areas like community development, health, education, and other listed program areas.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving children in the Greater Cincinnati area can seek project funding for health, education, cultural experiences, and social welfare programs. With a mission to strengthen communities, Greater Cincinnati Foundation provides Ohio human and social service nonprofits with support focused especially on children ages 0–6, with eligibility extending through high school age.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

Ohio 501(c)(3) nonprofits and selected public sector programs can seek funding for health and social services, basic needs, and community development projects that serve under-resourced children, youth, families, and communities. Nord Family Foundation supports program activities primarily in Lorain and Cuyahoga counties, with some capital funding when criteria are met and potential impact is broad.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

Ohio human and social service 501(c)(3) organizations can access funding through the Dr Scholl Foundation for programs in education, social services, health care, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental projects. U.S.-based nonprofits may request US $5,000 - US $25,000 for one year of project support during the annual October 1 to March 1 grant cycle.

Tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations, churches, schools, and governmental entities in Ohio serving Erie County residents can apply for Erie County Community Foundation’s Access to Recreation Fund to improve inclusive recreational opportunities and facilities. Projects that foster collaboration, build organizational capacity, and deliver substantial community benefits may be especially competitive for this human and social services-focused funding.

Ohio health and human service nonprofits purchasing health care equipment for Erie County residents may be eligible for this funding. Erie County Community Foundation’s Buckeye Broadband Fund supports 501(c)(3) health care providers, including churches, schools, and governmental entities under group exemptions, to improve health care access and delivery in the community.

Ohio 501(c)(3) nonprofits, schools, churches, and public entities serving Erie County residents can seek funding for creative performing arts projects, with a preference for theater. Focused on sustaining the Huron Playhouse legacy, Erie County Community Foundation invites proposals that build capacity, encourage collaboration, and deliver strong community benefits in the arts and humanities.

Focused on environmental education, Erie County Community Foundation invites Ohio 501(c)(3) nonprofits, schools, churches, and public entities serving Erie County residents to apply for project support. Funding can back environmental workshops, student field trips, and programs addressing local environmental issues, which may complement broader human and social service initiatives.

Human and social service nonprofits and public entities in Ohio can seek funding for programs that enrich life in Akron and Summit County. Grants from the Mary S. and David C. Corbin Foundation support local efforts in human and social services, housing, healthcare, youth, education, arts, environment, and broader civic and community initiatives.

Human and social service nonprofits in northeast Ohio can seek funding for operating support, programs, or special projects that aid homeless and disadvantaged residents. Grants from the Bicknell Fund help Ohio organizations, primarily around Cleveland and nearby counties, as well as education, arts, and civic groups that are 501(c)(3) public charities.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

With a mission to strengthen community well-being, Springfield Foundation provides Ohio human and social service nonprofits serving Clark County with competitive grants for programs in human services, health, education, civic affairs, and related areas. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, churches, and government units that serve the Clark County, Ohio community and have a DEI statement.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations providing human and social services and other charitable programs in Middletown, Ohio and the surrounding area can seek support for their work. With a mission to strengthen charitable and religious initiatives, Barnitz Fund provides Ohio organizations with funding across community development, health, education, arts, animal welfare, and related program areas.

Ohio 501(c)(3) nonprofits offering human and social services, community development, education, or related programs may be eligible for support from the Weber W. Sebald Foundation. Organizations serving Middletown and surrounding Butler and Warren counties can seek funding for charitable projects, including health, environment, animal welfare, arts, civic activities, and religious initiatives.