MCF: Grants for Recreation, Arts, Festivals, Events, and Sponsorships

MCF: Grants for Recreation, Arts, Festivals, Events, and Sponsorships

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Middletown Community Foundation
Last Updated: January 19, 2026

Summary

The Middletown Community Foundation offers grants for recreation, arts, festivals, events, and sponsorships to enhance community engagement. Established in 1976, the foundation supports collaborative projects that meet specific community needs, aiming for efficient use of philanthropic funds. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized nonprofits and local organizations, while individuals and for-profit entities are ineligible. The foundation encourages initiatives that foster the development of responsible youth and safe living environments.

Overview

Middletown Community Foundation The Middletown Community Foundation was incorporated as a component of the United Way in 1976. It grew slowly until 1986, when it became a freestanding foundation. Elliot and Mae Levey challenged the community to match their $1 million donation and create a true community foundation. Middletown committed $6.7 million and continued their generous support. Since then, assets have grown to more than $41 million. Suggestions for Grant Seekers: Collaborative projects are encouraged. Projects with multiple funding sources demonstrate: a more efficient use of our communities’ limited philanthropic dollars   cooperation among various service providers and eliminates unnecessary duplication of services. Applications should focus on meeting specific community needs rather than supporting the work of a specific organization. They should help create safe, positive living environments for our residents and enable families to develop skills and resources needed to support and nurture each other. Projects which foster the development of responsible young people in the community are also encouraged.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations may apply as well as those not-for-profit entities which are not required by law to obtain 501(c)(3) status: governmental agencies, churches and schools. Generally, organizations must be located in Middletown, Franklin, Monroe, Trenton, Lemon Township or Madison Township, although requests from charities outside of this service area may be considered for programs which serve area residents.

Ineligibility

Middletown Community Foundation does not fund individuals, for-profit companies, operating budgets, national organizations, religious programs, political groups, endowments, medical or research organizations, non-U.S. charities or sponsorships at fund-raising events. Some of these groups may receive grants from donor advised funds at the recommendation of individual donors who advise those separate funds, but no grants are ever distributed to individuals (other than scholarships) or for-profit companies.