Oliver Foundation Grants

Oliver Foundation Grants

The goal of the Oliver Foundation is to encourage children, families and communities in Texas to improve the eating and physical activity patterns of Pre-school, Elementary, Middle School and High School students.

The Oliver Foundation has awarded over 140 grants since 2013 to schools and non-profit organizations.  Rolling grant deadlines are April 15, July 15 and October 15.

Healthy Choices Grant Level 1:

Level 1 grants are awarded for a single school year (two or more semesters) or a summer program. Campus level, Grade Level, Teacher and Summer Programs that meet the minimum requirement of 3 of the 7 Healthy messages will be considered for Level 1 funding.

A physical activity and nutrition educational component are required as two of the three Healthy Messages. Including more than 3 of the Healthy Messages is encouraged. All programs must have a sustainability plan. For those grants that are purchasing equipment or supplies that are on an annual renewal basis, the grant must include a plan to renew said equipment/supplies for subsequent years.

Level 1 Grants are $750-$3000

Healthy Choices Grant Level 2:

Level 2 grants are awarded for a two-year (4 semesters) or longer program that includes a minimum of 5 of the 7 Healthy Messages. A physical activity and nutrition educational component are required as two of the 5 or more Healthy Messages.

Level 2 grants are intended to create a long-term sustainable program at the campus level. All programs must have a sustainability plan. For those grants that are purchasing equipment or supplies that are on an annual renewal basis, the grant must include a plan to renew said equipment/supplies for subsequent years.

Level 1 Grants are $3000 – $5000

Teen Advisory Board Grant:

Teen Advisory Board Grants (TB) are available to middle and high school campuses that are interested in implementing a TB at their school. A Teen Advisory Board is a group of diverse students that have a passion for creating a sustainable healthy campus environment, be involved in community service events, and can mentor younger students.

Oliver Foundation Staff and TB will provide training and assist in the implementation of this grant. A school sponsor is required for this group and will complete the grant application.

Advisory Board Grants are $500.

Grants will be awarded to Texas non-profit organizations, agencies and schools that demonstrate the greatest need and likelihood of a sustainable impact on children’s nutrition and activity levels through innovative programs.

The Oliver Foundation is an operating foundation and thus will provide support and on site visits during the grant period.

Evaluation Process

Level 1 Grants:

Successful grant recipients must be willing to provide a Midcourse Progress Report during the program and a Final Report. Detailed evaluation methods and plans for a sustainable program must be included in the proposal.

Level 2 Grants:

Successful grant recipients must be willing to provide a Midcourse Progress Report during the program and a Final Report. Detailed evaluation methods and plans for a sustainable program must be included in the proposal.

Advisory Board Grant:

Successful grant recipients must be willing to provide a Midcourse Progress Report during the program and a Final Report. Detailed evaluation methods and plans for a sustainable program must be included in the proposal.

Funding Limitations

Funding WILL NOT be provided to support the following:

  • ROrganizations that discriminate by race, color, creed, sex, age or origin
  • RContributions to capital campaigns
  • ROperating deficits or retirement of debt
  • REndowment programs
  • RConstruction projects, including building of gardens
  • RPolitical projects of any kind
  • RVehicles, such as vans or buses
  • REmergency medical services equipment
  • RClothing or uniforms for specific groups
  • RPersonnel salaries or stipends

Projects Are Selected Based On Following Info:

  • RFocus on prevention of childhood obesity implementing 3 or more of the Oliver Foundation's seven healthy messages for Level 1 Grants and 5 or more for Level 2 grant.
  • RA nutrition and physical activity education component are mandatory.
  • RPrograms that meet a clear, identifiable need.
  • RCreativity
  • ROperational strength of the applicant organization, including project leadership
  • RSustainable impact of the overall program.
  • RApplicant must agree to complete and submit a Midcourse Progress Report(s) and a Final Evaluation Form if awarded a grant.