Starbucks Foundation Offers Funding for Youth Literacy Programs

Deadline: September 1 and March 1, annually (Letters of Inquiry)

Through its Giving Voice program, the Starbucks Foundation, a philanthropic vehicle of the Starbucks Coffee Company, will fund programs for youth, ages 6-18, that integrate literacy with personal and civic action in the communities where they live.

The Starbucks Foundation invites Letters of Inquiry from qualifying organizations that work with underserved youth in one of two areas: 1) Arts & Literacy -- programs that innovatively address literacy and learning for the 21st century, provide high standards of excellence in mastering basic skills, and promote youth voices through a variety of venues; and 2) Environmental Literacy -- programs that offer place-based approaches to addressing environmental literacy and empower youth to be heroes for a sustainable environment in their own communities.

The foundation supports registered, nonprofit, tax-exempt501(c)(3) charitable organizations in the United States, as well as Registered Charities in Canada, that deliver services to youth and address at least one of the program's action areas.

Grants range from $5,000 to $20,000.

Visit the Starbucks Foundation Web site for program information, application procedures, and eligibility
questions.

Community Catalyst Grants

Deadline: Ongoing

The Bank of America Foundation has three primary areas of giving: providing educational opportunities, building inclusive communities and promoting cultural outreach. It funds efforts that support issues such as: literacy, school readiness, economic education, teacher preparation, need-based and merit scholarships, work readiness, economic revitalization efforts, environmental awareness and urban planning, disaster relief, diversity and multicultural awareness, and arts education. For more information, visit the website.

Carnegie Corporation of New York Grants

Deadline: Ongoing.

The Carnegie Corporation dedicates itself to the "advancement and diffusion of knowledge and understanding." They support efforts to improve teaching and learning that have the potential to make a lasting and long-term contribution to the field of education. Their current educational work in education is focused on three major areas: 1) advancing literacy: reading to learn, 2) urban school reform, and 3) teacher education reform. A theme that unites these subprograms is the overall goal of increasing access to quality education and a rich educational experience for all students that will prepare them for success in today's knowledge-based economy. Grants are usually awarded in the range of $750 - $250,000. Visit the website for more information.

ShopKo Foundation Grants

Quarterly Deadlines: the 1st week of Feb., May, Aug. or Nov.

The ShopKo Foundation supports local grants for organizations are working to make their community a better place to live. Grants should focus on education, health and wellness. To apply, your community must have a ShopKo store.

Visit the Foundation website for application details.

Verizon Foundation Grants

Deadline: Continuous from from Jan. 1 - Nov. 30

Verizon Foundation provides support to 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations within the US. The foundation supports the following funding priorities: literacy, domestic violence prevention, and technology. Verizon strives to transform the way private, public, and non-profit sectors work together in building collaborative partnerships.

Grant-making is not just in dollar amounts. The Verizon Foundation and partners also offer volunteers, Internet training, and Web developers.

Verizon Foundation only accepts proposals through an electronic Apply Online process. For eligiblity requirements, guidelines and a FAQ, visit the Foundation's website.

Bank of the West Charitable Contributions Program

Deadline: Ongoing
The mission of the Bank's Charitable Contributions Program is to support nonprofit organizations that contribute to educational, civic, cultural, health and human care needs, and is committed to improving the quality of life for low- and moderate-income residents within the communities in the following states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Oregon, Idaho, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Literacy and library programs for youth and adults are one of their supported Charitable Giving Categories.

See website for specific information and criteria required in a request.

Barnes & Noble

Deadline: Ongoing.

Barnes & Noble considers requests for local and regional support from non-profit organizations in the communities they serve. Funding is focused on support of organizations that focus on literacy, the arts or education (K - 12). Barnes & Noble assess the merit of each request on an individual basis. For more information, visit the website.