Looking for funds to make an innovative technology project possible? Seeking recognition for outstanding teachers or students in your district? Here's a sampling of some great opportunities.
Students in grades 5-12 who have initiated or demonstrated outstanding leadership in a community service activity are eligible to be nominated for Prudential Financial's Prudential Spirit of Community Award. One high school and one middle school student in each state receives a $1,000 award, an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., and the opportunity to be selected as one of 10 national Youth Volunteers of the Year. Each national winner receives an additional $5,000. Visit www.prudential.com/community/spirit for more information. The deadline for nominations is October 29.
Recipients of All-Around Scholarships, sponsored by Target Corporation, are recognized for both academic achievement and volunteer activities within their communities. High school seniors and college students under the age of 24 are eligible to apply for four national scholarships of $10,000. In addition, every Target store in the country offers two smaller scholarships. More information about eligibility and applications is available at target.com/target_group/ community_giving/scholarship.jhtml. Scholarship applications are due November 1.
K-12 schools and school districts are invited to apply for American Honda Foundation Grants. Awarded quarterly, these grants support projects that focus on youth and science education programs. One-time grants typically range from $10,000-$100,000; multiple-year grants range from $40,000-$80,000 per year. Learn more about the foundation and its grant program by visiting www.hondacorporate.com /community/?subsection=foundation. Deadlines are November 1, February 1, May 1, and August 1 each year.
Shell Oil Company and the National Science Teachers Association sponsor the Shell Science Teaching Award. This award is presented annually to a K-12 classroom science teacher who has had a positive impact on his or her students, school, and community through exemplary science teaching. First prize is $10,000, and the winner and two finalists each receive an all-expenses-paid trip to the NSTA National Convention. The nomination form and additional information are available at www.nsta.org/192. The deadline for nominations is November 15.
Schools located in communities served by Barnes & Noble stores are eligible to apply for Barnes & Noble Grants. These grants are awarded to programs that support the arts, literacy, and K-12 education. Awards vary and are made on local, regional, and national levels. Proposals must include a description of how the community will benefit and how the program will be promoted with Barnes & Noble. More details are available at www.barnesandnobleinc.com /company/codonation/ co_donation.html. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.
Tip of the Month
In-kind services and resources are a plus in grant applications. Demonstrate that your proposed project already has community support by describing existing donations and business partnerships that will enhance the program. Don't forget volunteers: their time is money! Some requests for proposals ask you to estimate the monetary value of in-kind services and include them in the budget. But even when you're not specifically asked, be sure to include this information in the narrative.
3D Action Grants, sponsored by 3D Life Adventures, provide up to $500 to fund student projects that are related to natural or cultural diversity. An adult mentor is required, and students are encouraged to work in teams. To learn more about the program, review a sample application, and download application forms, visit 3dzone.org/html/programs/grants.asp. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.
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The International Reading Association is a professional organization that promotes high levels of literacy through quality, research-based instruction. The organization offers nearly 40 grants and awards to authors, educators, and others who work in literacy programs. Categories for grants and awards include Children's Literature; Professional Development; Research; Service; and Teacher Awards and Grants. Application deadlines vary, but several are due each January and November. Learn more by visiting www.reading.org/association/awards.
Visit www.techlearning.com to search through the extensive database of grants and contests.
