The Cornerstone Initiative was established in 1995 as a source of funding with a targeted focus on serving youth and seniors, specifically for pilot or innovative programs. Today, the Cornerstone Initiative includes grant-based funding and scholarships.
The Cornerstone Initiative for Innovation grants represent a commitment to address important needs in our community in new and creative ways.
Criteria for innovation grants include:
Over the past three years (2022–2025), the Cornerstone Initiative has awarded more than $116,500 in grants, supporting a diverse range of impactful local initiatives. Grant amounts have ranged between $1,500 – $20,000. Recent Cornerstone funding has been awarded in support of:
Concord Fire Department – Supporting the procurement of advanced drone technology to enhance emergency response and public safety efforts.
Domestic Violence Services Network (DVSN) – Expanding survivor-centered support services through the Network for Justice initiative.
Minute Man Arc for Human Services – Reimagining residential care through innovative, person-centered programming for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Thoreau Elementary PTG – Creating “Thoreau’s Backyard,” a visionary, inclusive playspace that fosters physical activity, imaginative play, and social interaction—particularly for students in specialized education programs.
We encourage organizations that are considering submitting an application for a Cornerstone grant to reach out to our Executive Director, Jennifer Ubaldino in advance. Our ED and our Cornerstone Leadership Team will gladly schedule a call to discuss your project.
If you would like to submit an application outside of our grant cycle, please contact us to discuss.
Click here for more information and/or contact Jennifer Ubaldino to learn about these innovation grants.
Launched in January 2021, the Cornerstone Initiative Scholarship is given to candidates who have demonstrated interest in, experience in or commitment to racial justice, equity, or working with historically underserved or underprivileged populations. This experience or commitment can be demonstrated through their school experiences, community service experiences, or their future college and career plans and aspirations. If an applicant is not available that meets this criteria, The Scholarship Fund will make the award to otherwise eligible “best fit” candidates.
To learn more about the Scholarship, please contact Jennifer Ubaldino.
Tax ID: 04-2157042
Keep up with the Latest News
