The Opportunities for Children Community Grant is designed to support organizations that provide enrichment opportunities for children who may otherwise lack access. This grant program is administered by the Oklahoma City Community Foundation (OCCF) and focuses on initiatives that enhance children's educational, recreational, and social experiences. It prioritizes programs that improve school readiness, serve children in foster care, and offer specialized enrichment opportunities.

Grants are awarded for projects that align with the program’s key priorities: school readiness programs, services for children living in foster care, and specialized enrichment programs. The maximum award amount is $40,000 per grant. Organizations that have received funding in two of the past three years are ineligible to apply. Organizations that have received funding in the previous year may reapply if they have completed their final report before the application deadline.

The application process consists of multiple steps. Applicants must first submit a Letter of Interest (LOI) through the online Grant Portal using the access code CHILD25. If the LOI is approved, applicants will be invited to submit a full application. The grant cycle follows a structured timeline, with the application opening on January 30, 2025. An optional Grant Information Meeting is scheduled for February 11, 2025. The LOI deadline is March 6, 2025, and full grant applications must be submitted by March 13, 2025. Funding decisions will be announced by the end of May 2025. All deadlines are firm, and no exceptions will be made.

The program has supported a variety of initiatives in the past, including creative arts programs for early learning, summer camps for children with autism, support for foster families, and mentoring programs for children with incarcerated parents. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations that provide direct services to children in need. The grant prioritizes projects that enhance the well-being of underserved children through education, enrichment, and social development.

Interested organizations can download the Grant Guidelines for complete details on eligibility, funding conditions, and application instructions. The Oklahoma City Community Foundation serves as the primary point of contact for inquiries, with designated program representatives available for assistance. Applications must be submitted through the Grant Portal, and organizations will be notified if their applications are not approved.

For additional information or assistance, applicants can contact Michelle Kusselson, Community Programs Manager, at 405-606-2959 or m.kusselson@occf.org, or Keaton Van Sickle, Programs Specialist, at 405-606-2920 or k.vansickle@occf.org. The Oklahoma City Community Foundation is located at 1000 N. Broadway Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73102.