The BNSF Railway Foundation accepts grant applications on an ongoing basis for projects that clearly fall within one or more of the following categories: Civic services including organizations which are concerned with the environment, as well as local community issues such as crime prevention, parks and recreation, diversity and community development. Cultural organizations that include performing, visual, and fine arts, museums and other related activities that offer opportunities for underserved children to experience cultural learning events, or preserve their cultural heritage. Educational institutions, both public and private, primarily at the college level. Grants of an exceptional nature may be made to vocational and non-college schools. Preferably, contributions will be directed toward the improvement of the quality of education. Ordinarily, grants will not be made to finance the expansion of a student body or the payment of scholarships. (BNSF's scholarship programs, as well as the Employee Matching Gift Program, are governed by separate policies.) Health and Human Service organizations such as YMCA/YWCA, programs that address chemical dependency treatment and prevention, spouse and child abuse, women's and children's aid and transitional shelters. This category also includes hospitals and medical programs. Youth organizations such as Boys & Girls Clubs, Camp Fire, Scouts, Junior Achievement and similar groups. Federated organizations such as United Way and American Red Cross. A federally recognized tribal government, listed in the Federal Register by the Department of the Interior, Bureau of Indian Affairs. Applicants must have 501(c)3 status of the Internal Revenue Code; or be a division of local government; federally recognized tribal government; or a school or university. Applicants will be considered for a BNSF Railway Foundation grant only if at least two of the following criteria can be met: Your organization or project has significant BNSF employee participation Your organization or the services provided are in close proximity to a BNSF main line; or if BNSF is the only railroad or major corporation in your area of the state. Refer to the website map for service area. Your request is related to the railroad industry Your request is for direct programming or project support If your organization is volunteer-driven, there must be significant BNSF employee involvement in order for the BNSF Railway Foundation to consider funding your project. Request falls in the interest categories listed above. Priority will be given to organizations having an established relationship with the BNSF Railway Foundation. 10/10/2022