The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Funds provide annual grants to nonprofits in Western New York to advance initiatives aligned with Mr. Wilson’s passions: Caregivers, Community Assets, Design and Access, and Youth Sports. These funds, managed through the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, were established in 2015 to create sustainable, community-focused impact across Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans, and Wyoming counties. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, and government agencies may apply for Caregivers, Design and Access, and Youth Sports grants.

The Legacy Funds prioritize these areas:

Caregivers: Support for caregivers—whether paid, voluntary, or family—of individuals requiring substantial care, particularly those from underserved communities. Preference is given to programs assisting caregivers of older adults.

Community Assets: Funding for the preservation of significant cultural and historical assets, as well as programs that increase youth access to sustained arts education. Community Assets grants are limited to 501(c)(3) organizations within Erie County.

Design and Access: Enhancements to community spaces and programs that promote healthy lifestyles and increase access to recreational and wellness resources.

Youth Sports: Grants that expand access to sports, ensuring all children in the region have the opportunity to participate in physical activity.

Applications are accepted electronically only, via the Foundant Grant Lifecycle Manager, with no paper or emailed submissions. The Legacy Funds reflect Mr. Wilson’s legacy of impactful philanthropy, aimed at creating immediate and enduring benefits for communities in Western New York.