Dorothy E. Ann Fund (D.E.A.F.) Grants
The Dorothy E. Ann Fund (D.E.A.F.) Grants from the Columbus Foundation support innovative science and educational projects for deaf and hard of hearing youth in central Ohio.
Funder: Columbus Foundation
Due Dates: October 15, 2026 (Teacher Mini-Grants) | December 15, 2026 (Teacher Mini-Grants, Technology That Supports Literacy Mini-Grants, Traditional D.E.A.F. Grants) | March 1, 2027 (D.E.A.F. Scholarships) | March 15, 2027 (Teacher Mini-Grants) | May 15, 2027 (Teacher Mini-Grants)
Funding Amounts: Teacher Mini-Grants: Up to $500 (exceptions for equipment); Technology Mini-Grants: Up to $1,000; Traditional Grants: Varies; Scholarships: Up to $10,000 over four years
Summary: Supports skill-building, leadership, and educational opportunities for deaf and hard of hearing youth in central Ohio through grants to schools, nonprofits, teachers, and scholarships.
Description
The Dorothy E. Ann Fund (D.E.A.F.) Grants, administered by the Columbus Foundation, provide funding to schools, nonprofit organizations, and teachers to create hands-on, skill-building experiences for youth who are deaf or hard of hearing in central Ohio. The program aims to foster leadership, self-esteem, goal setting, and communication skills, while encouraging greater participation in educational, family, and community settings. Grant opportunities include traditional program grants, teacher mini-grants for innovative classroom projects, technology mini-grants to enhance literacy, and scholarships for students with substantial hearing loss pursuing post-secondary education.
