The Clinton County Foundation announces that the 2027 Robert E. Lucas Memorial
Fund grant application period will open November 1, 2026, and close January 31, 2027. The fund supports local initiatives led by effective organizations serving children and youth in Clinton County, Ohio.

The Lucas Fund prioritizes projects that promote youth leadership development, connect people across different age groups through creative programming, and introduce innovative approaches to addressing unmet community needs. The fund is particularly interested in new ideas, pilot programs, and collaborative projects that bring organizations together to share resources and expand participation in services.

Eligible applicants include:

• 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations
• Governmental agencies
• Educational institutions
• Faith-based organizations
• Organizations working with an eligible fiscal sponsor or partner

Grant awards range from $500 to $5,000. Funding is intended to complement other resources, expand services, encourage collaboration, and improve the well-being of Clinton County residents.

Organizations interested in applying can access the application through the Clinton County Foundation’s grant portal. Applicants will be asked to provide a detailed project description and budget, along with an estimate of the project’s community impact and a plan for evaluating its effectiveness. 

Learn more about the Robert E. Lucas Memorial Fund here.