The Samuel S. Fels Fund is a Pennsylvania nonprofit corporation dedicated to initiating and assisting educational or charitable activities. Established in 1935, the organization strives to improve life and increase personal health and happiness. Grants are made for education and community-enhancing programs conducted within Philadelphia. Proposals ideally address positive social change and advocacy, such as increasing parent involvement in public schools. Grant applications are accepted throughout the year.
The Pennsylvania Department of Education consistently funds select grant proposals to increase the effectiveness and capacity of Philadelphia public schools. Initiatives aim to create schools that are student-centered, results-focused and personalized in the delivery of student services. Previously funded projects included designing and implementing effective student advisory services, providing all students with leadership opportunities through developing relationships with caring adults. Mentoring systems are implemented in which students and parents complete transition plans to clarify students' futures. Student talents, abilities and academic progress are taken into account. The Pennsylvania Department of Education accepts qualified proposals in a variety of categories in which submission deadlines and guidelines are specified.
Parental Information and Resource Centers (PIRCs) grants, funded by the U.S. Department of Education, implement parental-involvement policies, programs and activities. PIRCs improve student academic achievement and strengthen partnerships among parents and school personnel, effectively meeting student needs. Proposed activities should establish early childhood-parent education programs and promote multiple means of improving student academic success.
Department of Education projects commonly assist parents in communicating effectively with school personnel and help parents become active participants in school improvement initiatives. Projects develop resources for family involvement through conferences and workshops, focusing on serving low-income and minority parents.
The Department of Education funds projects one to three years in length. Deadlines and guidelines vary for specific funding opportunities.
Lowe's Charitable and Educational Foundation awards $5 million in grants per year to public schools. Lowe's Toolbox for Education grant program selects 1,000 grant proposals, each awarded $5,000. Proposals should seek ways to provide parent groups and educators with tools to create the greatest positive impact. Basic, one-time project needs are given priority.