Kelsey Trust
The Kelsey Trust funds projects that protect the Lake Champlain Basin’s environment and support education, health, and children-at-risk through science-based community initiatives.
Funder: Vermont Community Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): December 2026 (Winter Grants: children, families, basic needs, health) | June 2027 (Spring Grants: education, environment)
Funding Amounts: Typical grants: $5,000–$10,000; total annual grants budget ~$200,000.
Summary: Supports organizations serving people and protecting the environment in the Lake Champlain Basin, with focus on environment, education, children-at-risk, and health.
Key Information: Strong preference for organizations located within the Lake Champlain Basin; 501(c)(3) or fiscal sponsor required.
Description
The Kelsey Trust, administered by the Vermont Community Foundation, provides grants to organizations and projects that benefit the people and protect the environment of the Lake Champlain Basin. The Trust prioritizes environmental protection (especially Lake Champlain, the Green Mountains, and the Adirondacks), support for children-at-risk, educational access for non-traditional and underserved students, and health and nutrition programs for underserved populations. The Trust has a strong preference for organizations located within the Basin and seeks to support initiatives with demonstrated need, clear outcomes, and sustainability.
