GBU Foundation Community Grant Awards

Background: The GBU Foundation, established in 1963, awards grants to nonprofit organizations through its annual Community Grant Awards ceremony. The foundation is dedicated to helping donors achieve their philanthropic goals and enhance the positive impact of donors and GBU members.

Geographic Scope: Primarily United States, with recent awards to organizations in PA, OH, MI, MN, and IL

Focus Areas: Grants are awarded in four Community Pillars:

• Wellness: Health and wellness-focused nonprofits
• Education: Educational and youth development organizations
• Charitable Giving: Food banks and community support services
• Hometown Hero Support: Veterans support, first responders, and volunteer fire departments

Award Structure:

• First prize: $10,000
• Second prize: $5,000
• Third prize: $2,500
• Special awards may include Community Builders Award ($10,000), Young Philanthropists Award ($2,500), and other recognition categories

Recent Funding Cycles:

• 2025 (April 3): $92,500 awarded to 15 nonprofits
• 2024 (April 11): $75,000 awarded to 13 nonprofits

Eligibility: Nonprofit organizations nominated by GBU members, donors, and supporters. Organizations must align with one of GBU's four Community Pillars.

Selection Process: Member and public nominations followed by finalists selection and voting (approximately 7,000 votes cast annually)

Application Process

1. Nomination: Charitable organizations are nominated by GBU members, donors, and supporters
2. Selection: Finalists are selected from nominations
3. Voting: Public voting determines winners (approximately 7,000 votes cast annually)
4. Awards Ceremony: Winners are celebrated at the annual Community Grant Awards ceremony (typically held in April)

Required Information

Nominations must identify:

• Nonprofit organization name and location
• Community Pillar alignment (Wellness, Education, Charitable Giving, or Hometown Hero Support)
• Organization's mission and impact

Submission Details

• Nomination period varies annually
• Voting conducted by GBU members, donors, and supporters
• Results announced at Community Grant Awards ceremony