The Canandaigua Kiwanis Foundation has initiated a grant program for not for profit 501(c)(3) organizations that:
- Serve young people in attaining vocational excellence.
- Aid persons with disabilities in regaining happy, useful lives through the expending of funds directly for such purposes
- Furnish funds to other organizations organized for charitable, educational, scientific research, or educational purposes, or the prevention of cruelty to children all within Ontario County.
- Have Programs that have measurable outcomes and demonstrate sustainability without grant funds.
The Canandaigua Kiwanis Foundation is an independent fund-raising and grant making community organization which funds projects that have a positive impact on our community. This is our initial year of offering grants to area not for profits. Applicants must be a 501 C 3 nonprofit in Ontario County, that serves youth within this geographic area and involves children ages 0-18.
Grants typically range from $500 - $5000.
2025-2026 Grants:
And the awards go to.......
Our Grant Recipients
Paints & Rec
"Youth Mural Program"
- This significant project will provide youth a rare opportunity to contribute to a lasting work of public art while learning professional painting techniques, teamwork, and creative problem solving. Their upcoming project this summer will mural paintings at the Canandaigua Convention Center both inside and out. This summer program quickly filled 300 available spots for youth.
Wood Library
"Furnishings for Children's Room"
- Wood Library provides a safe and inclusive environment where people can spark their imaginations, satisfy their curiosity, engage in lifelong learning, and make community connections. Supporting early literacy and learning through exploration and play is a cornerstone of Wood Library's mission. The grant awarded for this project will replace aging and well-used furniture with comfortable seating, adding a display unit to promote chapter books for emerging readers and thus creating an inviting space that encourages families to return regularly.
Salvation Army
"Pheonix Program"
- The Salvation Army has a long-standing history of addressing poverty, food insecurity, and childcare challenges by offering low cost, affordable options year-round. One of these options is the Pheonix Program, a certified after school program and free youth evening opportunity to help with socialization, recreation, positive environments, and academic supports. The awarded grant will offset active and enrollment costs for children K-7.
If you have any questions or would like to learn more, please email us at canandaiguakiwanis.grants@yahoo.com.
Sincerely,
Kim Bagley
Pam Metting
Canandaigua Kiwanis Grant Committee Chairs