Grants
Laurel Foundation is committed to cultivating partnerships with local nonprofits to improve the quality of life for the people of Pittsburgh and Southwestern Pennsylvania. Grantmaking is concentrated in the following counties: Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Bedford, Blair, Butler, Cambria, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Lawrence, Somerset, Washington, and Westmoreland.
The Foundation’s grantmaking falls into four main categories: Arts & Culture, Education, Environment, and Public/Society Benefit.
With an emphasis on outcomes and accountability, grantmaking focuses on programs offering long-term benefits for participants and the community. Additionally, the Foundation favors programs that foster individual responsibility and self-sufficiency, exhibit a commitment to sound fiscal and program management, implement collaborative efforts, and demonstrate measurable outcomes.
Grants are awarded only to organizations classified as tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Individuals are not eligible for funding, nor are funds granted for scholarships.
The Foundation does not ordinarily approve consecutive-year grants, preferring instead to monitor the status of a program prior to additional funding approval.
Arts & Culture
The arts nourish our souls, broaden perspectives and provide a common thread connecting the fabric of our society. That’s why the foundation is committed to growing the arts locally and ensuring abundant opportunities for all to experience the bounty of Pittsburgh’s thriving cultural scene.
Laurel Foundation makes grants to a variety of organizations driving local Arts and Culture at all levels for all ages. The list includes, but is not limited to, arts education, music theory, bands, orchestras, theater groups, art service organizations, historic preservation societies, and museums.
Education
The Foundation funds grants to promote knowledge and skills to enhance economic opportunities and success in the region.
Vocational programs include, but are not limited to, manufacturing, masonry, and building construction trades.
Workforce development programs are defined as those that provide individuals with the knowledge and resources to plan for their futures and make smart decisions through work readiness and financial literacy.
Environment
Protecting the environment has been a staple of the Foundation’s grantmaking from the start. Today, the tradition continues through programs supporting animal welfare, community beautification, and conservation.
Animal Welfare
The Foundation funds various projects to protect vulnerable species and their habitats. Mrs. May, the Foundation’s benefactor, had an affinity for birds, so many of these projects focus on preserving their migratory routes and habitats.
Community Development & Beautification
Community Development projects support green infrastructure, stormwater management, trail creation and upkeep, and the maintenance of local parks and nature reserves.
Beautification programs include: greening efforts, such as the hanging baskets throughout the city of Pittsburgh; cultivating community gardens; repurposing vacant lots; and restoring historic projects while respecting existing infrastructure.
Conservation & Preservation
Conservation and Preservation grants encompass land acquisition and conservation, watershed restoration, air quality monitoring and improvement, and the planting of native species.
Public/Society Benefit
On occasion, the Foundation supports causes outside of the arts & culture, education, and environmental categories.