The Clinton and Nancy Schilling Community Fund, a fund of the Lockwood Community Foundation, provides grants of up to $50,000 to support vocational and technical education in Jasper, Barton, and Dade counties. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and other IRS-approved entities, such as government bodies and school districts, serving these counties. Applications must be submitted by 11:45 PM on January 30, 2025. Grants awarded must be utilized within one year, and recipients are required to submit a detailed follow-up report.

Funding priorities include purchasing classroom equipment and hands-on education tools, acquiring student curriculum, providing continuing education stipends for educators, supporting student participation in trade shows and competitions, funding capital requests nearing the end of campaigns, and renovating facilities. These targeted priorities aim to enhance educational outcomes and provide practical benefits to students and educators in the vocational and technical education fields.

The advisory board makes grant decisions, and applicants are encouraged to present projects that align closely with these funding priorities. For technical assistance with the application, applicants can contact Latesa Carter at 417-864-6199. Questions about the program and eligible projects can be directed to Joe Kammerer at the same number.

Grant applicants must adhere to non-discrimination policies in employment practices and access to services, ensuring inclusivity based on race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status. All applications are subject to character count limits, which include spaces, and must be completed thoughtfully to address the grant criteria comprehensively. This funding opportunity is ideal for organizations committed to advancing technical and vocational education in the Tri-County area.