Kelsey Trust
The Kelsey Trust, through the Vermont Community Foundation, funds research and initiatives that protect the Lake Champlain Basin’s environment, advance education, and promote community health.
Funder: Vermont Community Foundation
Due Dates: December 1, 2026 (Winter Grants: children and families, basic human needs, health) | June 1, 2027 (Spring Grants: education, environment)
Funding Amounts: Typical awards: $5,000–$10,000 per grant; annual grants budget approximately $200,000.
Summary: Supports organizations serving people and protecting the environment of the Lake Champlain Basin, with emphasis on environmental, educational, and health initiatives.
Key Information: Strong preference for organizations located within the Lake Champlain Basin; must use Online Grants Manager for submission.
Description
The Kelsey Trust, managed in partnership with the Vermont Community Foundation, funds organizations and projects that benefit the people and natural environment of the Lake Champlain Basin. Established in 1988, the Trust honors the legacy of Robert Fleming Patrick and Jonathan Kelsey Woods by supporting initiatives in environmental protection, children-at-risk, education, and health/nutrition. The Trust prioritizes projects with lasting positive impact, especially those addressing the needs of underserved populations and the region’s natural resources. There are two main grant cycles each year—Winter (focusing on children, families, basic needs, and health) and Spring (focusing on education and the environment).
