Dorothy E. Ann Fund (D.E.A.F.) Grants
Dorothy E. Ann Fund (D.E.A.F.) Grants support deaf and hard-of-hearing youth through hands-on learning, classroom innovation, literacy technology, and scholarships to build skills for successful careers.
This grant was recently updated
The deadline calendar now lists 2027 Teacher Mini-Grant deadlines on March 15, May 15, October 15, and December 15, previously listed under 2026. It also adds December 15, 2026 deadlines for Traditional Grants, Teacher Mini-Grants, and Technology that Supports Literacy Mini-Grants, and lists December 15, 2027 for all three.
Funder: Columbus Foundation
Due Dates: December 15, 2026 (All grant categories) | March 1, 2027 (Scholarships) | March 15, 2027 (Teacher) | May 15, 2027 (Teacher) | October 15, 2027 (Teacher) | December 15, 2027 (All grant categories)
Funding Amounts: Teacher mini-grants: up to $500, with a single-equipment exception; literacy technology: up to $1,000; scholarships: $10,000 over four years
Summary: Supports hands-on learning, classroom innovation, literacy technology, and post-secondary education for youth who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Description
The Dorothy E. Ann Fund (D.E.A.F.), administered through the Columbus Foundation, supports hands-on experiences that help youth who are deaf or hard of hearing develop skills and values for successful careers. Its priorities include leadership training, goal setting, self-esteem, interpersonal and communication skills, and fuller participation in education, family, and community life.
Traditional grants support central Ohio schools and nonprofit organizations serving these young people. Teacher mini-grants fund innovative classroom techniques, while Technology that Supports Literacy mini-grants support technology purchases for literacy development. The fund also awards scholarships to central Ohio students who are deaf or hard of hearing pursuing full-time post-secondary education. D.E.A.F. Advisors review grant applications and make awards.
