The Amazon Rappahannock Region Community Fund Grant

The Amazon Rappahannock Region Community Fund, managed by The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region, will distribute $300,000 in grants to nonprofit organizations in Stafford, Spotsylvania, Caroline, and Louisa Counties. The fund focuses on areas such as STEM education, sustainability, community development, digital skills, cultural heritage preservation, and health and wellbeing. Eligible projects must serve local communities and adhere to specific requirements, promoting innovation and collaboration.

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region
The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region works with individuals and families to create permanent gifts for our community. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.
For more than 25 years, The Community Foundation has been a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River region.
The program will award grants totaling $300,000 to nonprofit organizations serving Stafford, Spotsylvania, Caroline, and Louisa Counties in Virginia.
Funding Focus Areas
Proposals should address one or more of the following general focus areas.
STEM Education: STEM education grants support hands-on learning, teacher training, and access to technology. We fund programs that enhance STEM opportunities for students of all backgrounds. Eligible projects include classroom activities, after-school programs, and career exploration initiatives.
Sustainability & Environment: Sustainability and environment grants support projects focused on conservation, renewable energy, and environmental education. We fund initiatives that promote sustainable practices and protect natural resources. Eligible projects include conservation efforts, eco-friendly innovations, and community-based environmental education.Community Development: Community development grants support projects that enhance local infrastructure, economic growth, and quality of life. We fund initiatives that strengthen communities through engagement, education, and sustainable development. Eligible projects include affordable housing, workforce development, and community improvement efforts.
Digital Skills: Digital skills grants support programs that teach technology, coding, and digital literacy. We fund initiatives that equip individuals with skills for the modern workforce and digital economy. Eligible projects include coding workshops, tech education programs, and online learning platforms.
Cultural Heritage Preservation: Cultural heritage preservation grants, support efforts to protect and promote historical sites, traditions, and artifacts. We fund projects that conserve cultural landmarks and foster community connections through history. Eligible projects include restoration of landmarks, archival preservation, and cultural education programs.
Health & Wellbeing: Health and wellbeing grants support programs that improve physical and mental health outcomes. We fund initiatives focused on disease prevention, access to care, and community wellness. Eligible projects include health education, mental health services, and wellness programs.

Eligibility

Eligible projects must serve individuals, groups, and/or locations within Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Stafford, King George or Caroline and must meet the following criteria to apply for a grant:
Be a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.For organizations or projects that do not meet the above eligibility requirements, we will consider projects submitted through a fiscal sponsor. Any applicant that is not a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization must have a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization act as a fiscal sponsor and provide a letter of support from a qualified 501(c)(3) organization.Be current with all state and federal reporting requirements.Not have any past due grant reports for previous Community Foundation grants.
What we fund
It is important for applicants and projects to demonstrate:
Efforts that promote opportunity for underserved residents and neighborhoodsInnovation and creativityCollaborationCommitment to inclusion, diversity equity and accessibilityFinancial and programmatic capacityMeasurable impactLeadership

Ineligibility

The Community Foundation does not make grants to organizations that, in their constitution, bylaws or practices, discriminate against a person or group because of age, race, national origin, ethnicity, gender, disability, sexual orientation or religious belief.  Additionally, The Community Foundation will not award grants for:
IndividualsRequests that violate our Nondiscrimination PolicyRequests for regranting purposesFundraising campaigns or eventsAdvancement of capital or endowment campaignsPolitical doctrine, political campaigns, and lobbying.Religious activities, proselytization or projects that exclusively serve religious or sectarian purposes. Religious organizations providing non-religious community services will be consideredDebt payment or legal settlementsRetroactive funding or reimbursement for completed projects, programs, and equipmentNational and statewide organizations that cannot demonstrate a strong local presence