Freedom First Credit Union – Freedom First Gives Grants
Funding for Economic Mobility, Education, Housing, Health, Community Development & Basic Needs in Southwest Virginia
Organization: Freedom First
About the Funder
Freedom First Credit Union, a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), invests in improving financial stability, health, education, and overall community well-being across Southwest Virginia. Through its Freedom First Gives program, the credit union awards grants up to $5,000 to nonprofits, schools, and community organizations driving measurable impact in the region.
The program supports initiatives that expand economic opportunity, strengthen families, and build more equitable communities.
What This Program Funds
Freedom First Gives provides financial awards up to $5,000 for projects aligned with their community impact priorities.
Priority Funding Areas
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Economic Mobility & Financial Empowerment
Financial education, workforce development, credit-building programs -
Affordable Housing & Stability Services
Housing assistance, homelessness prevention, homeownership support -
Education & Youth Development
Classroom initiatives, tutoring, after-school programs, youth leadership -
Health & Wellness
Behavioral health, nutrition programs, access to healthcare, healthy living -
Community Development & Revitalization
Placemaking, safety initiatives, public spaces, neighborhood improvement -
Basic Needs Support
Food security, transportation assistance, utility support, emergency aid -
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Programs addressing systemic barriers and promoting equitable opportunities
Typical Projects Funded (Up to $5,000)
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Classroom technology or STEM materials
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Youth mentoring or after-school enrichment
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Financial coaching workshops
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Housing or rental assistance programs
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Community gardens or health outreach
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Neighborhood or public space enhancements
Eligibility
Applicants must:
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Be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, school, or community-based organization
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Serve residents in Freedom First’s Southwest Virginia footprint
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Demonstrate measurable impact
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Request no more than $5,000
Freedom First typically does not fund:
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Individuals
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Political causes
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For-profit entities
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Organizations outside the region
Funding Amounts
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Maximum award: $5,000
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Amount varies based on:
– Project scope
– Community need
– Expected outcomes
– Alignment with impact priorities
Smaller and mid-size projects are especially competitive.
Deadline
Applications are accepted year-round.
Organizations should apply at least 30 days before funding is needed.
Geographic Focus
Eligible communities include:
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Roanoke
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Salem
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Blacksburg
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Christiansburg
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Montgomery County
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Botetourt County
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Franklin County
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Surrounding Southwest Virginia communities
Application Process
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Visit the Freedom First Gives webpage
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Select Grant Request (up to $5,000)
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Complete the online form
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Include:
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Nonprofit status
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Project description
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Funding amount requested (≤$5,000)
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Community need & anticipated outcomes
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Population served
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Submit the request for review
Why This Opportunity Is a Good Fit
Ideal for nonprofits that:
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Provide essential services or economic mobility programs
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Support youth education, mentoring, or academic enrichment
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Address housing stability or homelessness prevention
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Improve community health and wellness
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Enhance local neighborhoods or community spaces
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Need modest but impactful funding (≤$5,000) to launch or expand programs
This grant is an excellent match for local grassroots groups, schools, community centers, housing agencies, and human service providers.
Apply here: Link to Application
