The Community Foundation of Orange, Sullivan and Rockland Announces Focus of 2026 Make a Difference Grant Cycle

Nonprofits that are looking to enhance operational needs and community-based infrastructure are encouraged to apply.

MONTGOMERY, NY (July 8, 2026) – The Community Foundation of Orange, Sullivan and Rockland (CFOSR) is pleased to announce that applications are now being accepted for this year’s Make a Difference Grants. This year, the Fund will prioritize supporting community-based infrastructure and operational needs that help non-profits better serve individuals and families in Orange, Sullivan and Rockland Counties. Preference will be given to projects and organizations that serve women, children and seniors.

Examples of eligible requests may include technology upgrades, equipment purchases, program-related supplies, facility improvements, and other operational expenses that directly enhance the organization’s ability to serve their community.

"The Community Foundation is committed to helping local nonprofits grow stronger and more resilient,” says Elizabeth Rowley, President and CEO. “By investing in their infrastructure and operational needs, we're supporting the work that happens behind the scenes so these organizations can continue to do their important work.”

Grant Details

Grants of up to $5,000 each will be awarded to qualified non-profit organizations in Orange, Sullivan and Rockland Counties.

Application Process and Timeline

Applications for the 2026 Make a Difference Grants are available on the CFOSR website at cfosrny.org from July 1 until July 30, 2026. Grant recipients will be announced at the CFOSR Annual Reception on October 21, 2026.

• Eligibility Requirements
• Be a tax-exempt 501(c)3 organization.
• Be based in Orange, Sullivan or Rockland County.
• Annual operating budget of $1 million or less.
• Demonstrate that the proposed request addresses an immediate need and directly benefits local residents.

Proposals that comply with the CFOSR Make a Difference Fund guidelines (outlined below).

Make a Difference Fund Guidelines

The Make a Difference Fund does not provide grants for:

• Endowment funds
• Organizations that received a Make a Difference Grant within the past year
• Projects influencing specific legislation or election campaigns
• Medical research (excluding food-related initiatives)
• Private education or religious organizations (except for programs serving broad community food needs)
• Retroactive funding for completed projects
• Fundraising events, benefit tickets, or courtesy advertising
• Replacing government funding (except for bridge funding)
• Higher education scholarships'Employee compensation

For more information, please call the CFOSR office at (845) 769-9393 and ask for Lisa or email lisa@cfosrny.org.

About the Make a Difference Fund

The Make a Difference Fund, established in 2003 by the Community Foundation of Orange, Sullivan and Rockland, aims to address emerging needs in its designated areas. This is one of the Foundation’s few unrestricted funds, which has grown over the year through contributions from many supporters and the Foundation itself. This Fund has consistently supported various community needs, with a focus this year on filling budget gaps for valuable community-based organizations.

About the Community Foundation of Orange, Sullivan and Rockland (CFOSR): Based in Montgomery, NY, the Community Foundation of Orange, Sullivan and Rockland connects people who care with causes that matter. Established in 1999, the Foundation helps philanthropic individuals, businesses and organizations establish charitable funds that will award grants and scholarships, for good, forever. The Foundation has significantly increased the region’s charitable capital and has empowered donors to make a profound difference in the quality of life in our region. Since its inception, CFOSR, with its donors and fund representatives, has distributed more than $46 million in grants and scholarships. The Community Foundation of Orange, Sullivan and Rockland currently administers 630 active charitable funds that represent $75 million in assets to support animal welfare, arts and culture, education, the environment, health and human services, recreation, and youth. To learn more, visit cfosrny.org.