PORTLAND, Ore. — May 4, 2026 — The Oregon Community Foundation (OCF) is awarding nearly $5.2 million in spring grants to nonprofits across the state, supporting efforts in rural and urban communities aimed at strengthening families, expanding economic opportunity, and building arts and cultural infrastructure.
In total, 258 grants will be distributed through several OCF programs, with the majority—$4.77 million—going to 252 organizations through the Community Grants program. The funding will reach nonprofits serving all 36 Oregon counties.
“Oregon is full of people working hard to improve the lives of our neighbors across the state,” said Kim Koenig, director of community programs for OCF. “We’re grateful to our donors for sharing resources to support big ideas and smart solutions.”
Focus on Community Needs
The Community Grants program provides flexible funding that nonprofits can use for staffing, maintaining programs, or strengthening infrastructure. This year, OCF prioritized organizations in small and rural communities, as well as those that are culturally specific or responsive—groups that have historically faced underinvestment.
Nearly half of the grants support projects tied to economic vitality and livability.
Among the recipients is Row River Fire Response in Lane County, which is working to expand fire protection services in the 20-mile Row River Valley. The organization began its efforts in 2022 and has since helped establish a volunteer fire district.
“Now in 2026, that effort continues to grow as we work to build a main fire station for our volunteers,” said Executive Director Kathleen Istudor.
On the Oregon Coast, Yachats Youth & Family Activities Program will use its grant to provide preschool, after-school care, and summer programming for families.
“We try to keep tuition as low as possible so that we can ensure services to all families,” said Executive Director Kristina Anderson.
Supporting Arts, Economy, and Housing Stability
Beyond general operating support, OCF is also investing in targeted initiatives:
- Arts and Culture: $250,000 will support the Oregon Arts Education Collective, a network of educators working to strengthen arts learning statewide. An additional $50,000 fellowship will support professional development in architecture through a partnership with the Architecture Foundation of Oregon.
- Economic Vitality: $37,500 will fund programs that promote entrepreneurship, strengthen small businesses, and expand economic opportunities in local communities.
- Housing Stability: $30,000 will support research into best practices for preventing and addressing homelessness across Oregon.
Community Impact Stories
Several organizations highlighted the real-world impact of the funding.
In Central Oregon, Furnish Hope provides essential household items to people transitioning into stable housing. Since its founding, the nonprofit has furnished more than 3,000 homes.
“We believe that everybody needs a place to call home,” said Founding Executive Director Megan Martin. “The vehicle that we use to bring hope to people is furniture.”
In Yamhill County, Henderson House continues to provide culturally responsive services for survivors of domestic and sexual violence, including emergency shelter, advocacy, and trauma-informed support programs.
Meanwhile, Rogue Valley Mentoring in Southern Oregon connects youth with adult mentors, helping them navigate challenges such as poverty, trauma, and housing instability.
“Our work makes a difference because it addresses a fundamental human need: connection,” the organization said in a statement.
A Statewide Effort
Founded in 1973, Oregon Community Foundation distributes more than $200 million annually in grants and scholarships. The organization works with donors, businesses, and volunteers to support causes across the state.
This latest round of funding reflects a continued commitment to community-driven solutions, with investments reaching both densely populated cities and remote rural areas.
A full list of grant recipients is available through OCF.
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