This third and final round of grants is dedicated to funding programs and initiatives commemorating Ohio’s important contribution to American history. Grant amounts are up to $5,000 for eligible “America 250-Ohio Communities” seeking to plan, organize and implement a program or event that aligns with America 250-Ohio initiatives in two broad categories: Storytelling and Education (Next Generation Citizens).
These community-focused grants are aimed at funding local activations that supplement the programs that America 250-Ohio is producing statewide, and that further the reach of America 250-Ohio-related educational programming statewide.
The response to the grant application process yielded 125 applications of which 45% or 57 grants are being awarded. The funs for these grants were mostly from state funds with support from sponsor Neighborhood Strategies.
Read about the awarded projects:
This grant cycle differs from the two previous America 250-Ohio grant opportunities. The Commission’s priorities are to fund activities that are aligned with and complementary to America 250-Ohio programs and projects described below.
This third round of grants focuses on two broad categories – Storytelling and Education (Next Generation Citizens).
The goal of this round of grants is providing funds for local activations that are supplemental to the programs that America 250-Ohio is producing statewide and to further the reach of America 250-Ohio-related educational programming more broadly into all 88 Ohio counties. Ohio Humanities assisted with America 250-Ohio to facilitate the process.
The following criteria was applied to be qualified for consideration:
Grant Amounts
Storytelling Initiative Activations
The Heritage Trees activation encourages communities to plant trees that symbolize local history and culture. Each tree becomes a living monument, with plaques or QR codes providing stories about significant events, people, or traditions associated with that location. This initiative fosters environmental stewardship while deepening connections to local heritage, ensuring that these stories live on for future generations.
This activation pays tribute to all veterans by collecting and sharing their stories, organizing events, and creating memorials that highlight their contributions. Communities can host ceremonies, establish markers, and involve local schools in learning about and preserving the legacy of those who served. The goal is to ensure that the sacrifices and heroism of veterans are never forgotten.
Focused on Revolutionary War veterans, this activation involves researching and sharing the stories of those who fought for America’s independence. It encourages communities to identify and commemorate gravesites, host re-enactments, and create educational programs that teach the historical significance of these individuals. This ensures these patriots’ pivotal roles in shaping the nation are remembered.
This activation seeks to uncover and celebrate lesser-known or under-told stories from local history. Communities are encouraged to document and share these narratives through various mediums, including exhibits, digital archives, or storytelling events. By spotlighting diverse and overlooked aspects of local heritage, this initiative enriches the broader understanding of community identity.
The 12 Monthly Themes activation offers a structured way to engage communities in storytelling throughout the year with the designated America 250-Ohio Themes. Each month focuses on a different theme related to local or national history, encouraging events, educational programs, and public displays. This consistent, thematic approach helps keep history alive and relevant, fostering continuous community engagement. For more information about each of the themes, please visit our website: https://america250-ohio.org/2026-celebration-themes/.
Education (Next Generation Citizens) Initiative Activations
The Judicial/Judiciary Process Exploration activation encourages communities to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the justice system and landmark court cases related to Ohio. Through interactive experiences like mock trials, courthouse tours, and discussions with legal professionals, students learn about the judicial process and its significance in a democratic society. This initiative aims to develop informed citizens who understand and appreciate the rule of law.
iCivics Ohio activation encourages communities to integrate digital civic education tools into classrooms, helping students learn about government, citizenship, and democracy in an engaging way. Through interactive games, lesson plans, and activities, students explore the workings of the government and their role as citizens. This initiative empowers the next generation to actively participate in civic life with a strong foundation in civics.
The Service-Learning activation encourages communities to connect academic learning with community service, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. By participating in projects that address community needs, students develop leadership, critical thinking, and civic responsibility. This initiative bridges the gap between education and community engagement, fostering a sense of citizenship and social responsibility among students.
The History Pass activation encourages communities to provide students with opportunities to explore historical sites and museums, enhancing their understanding of history through experiential learning. Open to students of all grades, this activation offers things like free or discounted access to historical locations and virtual field trips.
The Founding Documents activation encourages communities to focus on educating students about the key texts that shaped American democracy, including the Northwest Ordinance, Declaration of Independence, and U.S. Constitution. Through activities such as interactive lessons, debates, and primary source analysis, students gain a deep understanding of the principles and values that underpin the nation. This initiative promotes civic literacy and an appreciation for the foundational ideas of American government.
Congratulations to the America 250-Ohio Community Spring 2025 Grant Awardees.
Read the full list here:
