Special Grantmaking Initiatives

The Richland County Foundation has several special grantmaking initiatives. Grants are made annually from the following endowed funds:

Connections Fund was founded in 2004 to foster and retain leaders and professionals in Richland County and to promote a philanthropic identity and involvement in the community. The advisory committee reviews their grant focus each year, and awards grants each January.

Richland County Foundation Scholarship Fund has been helping undergraduate students for over 40 years. Grants are awarded each June with applications due April 1. Scholarships are awarded primarily based on need.

Summertime Kids Fund was established in 1995 by the Board of Trustees to support summertime programs for children through grants to nonprofit organizations. Grants are awarded in May.

Teacher Assistance Program (TAP) Fund is a mini-grant program for classroom teachers in Richland County. It was established in 1997 by the Board of Trustees to encourage and support teachers who develop creative and interesting new programs, projects, or events, not covered by other school funding. Grants will be announced prior to the end of the current school year.

The Women’s Fund was established in 1996 as a permanent endowment to provide funding to programs and projects in the Richland County area that empower women to reach their full potential. The advisory committee awards grants in November that promote the physical, intellectual, emotional, social, economic and cultural growth of women of all ages. Organizations that are eligible to receive grants include 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, churches, and health service organizations.

Grants to Support Individuals

Through a competitive process held twice a year, grants are awarded to public charities for programs that assist individuals with basic needs and provide emergency assistance. Grants are awarded in April and October. Support comes from Field of Interest Funds and Unrestricted Funds.