Entertainment Software Association: Grants for Youth Programs
The ESA Foundation is dedicated to supporting geographically diverse projects and programs that benefit American youth of all races and denominations and make a difference in the quality of their life, health and welfare. The Foundation seeks to harness the collective power of the interactive entertainment industry to create positive social impact in our communities, and supports. Maximum award: $50,000. Eligibility: 501(c)(3) organizations with programs that serve youths ages 7-18. Deadline: May 15, 2012.

MetLife Foundation: Partners in Arts Education Program
The MetLife Foundation Partners in Arts Education Program enhances arts learning in K-12 public schools by supporting exemplary community school/public school partnerships that serve large numbers of public school students during the school day; exemplify best practices in creating and sustaining effective partnerships; provide pedagogically sound arts education experiences; prioritize student learning and achievement; and address national, state, and/or local arts education standards. Maximum award: $20,000. Eligibility: organizations that are full members in good standing of the National Guild of Community Schools of the Arts. Non-member organizations should submit a membership application and first-year dues payments at least one week prior to submitting an application. Must be located in certain cities -- see application guidelines. Deadline: May 17, 2012.

ING/America's Promise: 100 Best Communities
Each year, America's Promise and ING celebrate 100 deserving communities who effectively provide their youth with the Five Promises -- caring adults, safe places, a healthy start, effective education, and opportunities to help others -- and work to increase graduation rates. Winning communities come from all across the country and are addressing the unique challenges they face. Maximum award: recognition. Eligibility: any community committed to better serving its young people. Deadline: May 17, 2012.

Captain Planet Foundation: Grants for the Environment
The Captain Planet Foundation funds hands-on environmental projects that encourage innovative programs that empower children and youth around the world to work individually and collectively to solve environmental problems in their neighborhoods and communities. Maximum award: $2,500. Eligibility: 501(c)3 organizations. Deadline: May 31, 2012.


Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation: Grants for Youth with Disabilities
Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation Grants Program is dedicated to helping young Americans with disabilities maximize their potential and fully participate in society. The foundation supports organizations and projects within its mission that have broad scope and impact and demonstrate potential for replication at other sites. A major program emphasis is inclusion: enabling young people with disabilities to have full access to educational, vocational and recreational opportunities and to participate alongside their non-disabled peers. Maximum award: $90,000. Eligibility: 501(c)3 organizations. Deadline: June 01, 2012.

Best Buy: Community Grants Program
Through the Community Grants Program, Best Buy teams across the United States select non-profit organizations that give teens access to opportunities through technology. Maximum award: $10,000. Eligibility: non-profit organizations located within 50 miles of a Best Buy store or other facility that serve a diverse population in local or regional communities, build academic, leadership and life skills in early adolescents (primarily ages 13-17), and serve at-risk populations. Deadline: August 1, 2012.


CVS/Caremark: Community Grants
CVS/Caremark Community Grants are currently accepting proposals for programs, targeting children under age 21 with disabilities, which address health and rehabilitation services or enabling physical movement and play. Maximum award: $5,000. Eligibility: non-profits located in states that also have CVS stores. Deadline: October 31, 2012.

Would you like to volunteer your time to work with students or invest in Mississippi public education? Whatever your interest, we can help.

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Public Education Forum
248 E. Capitol Street, Suite 940
Jackson, MS 39202