Voting Opens for GBU Foundation Community Grant Awards Finalists

Public can vote to determine which nonprofits receive funding to advance local initiatives

Feb. 23, 2026 at 10:25pm

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The GBU Foundation is inviting the public to vote in the final round of its 2026 Community Grant Awards, empowering communities to help determine which nonprofit organizations will receive funding to advance meaningful local initiatives. The Community Grant Awards program supports 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that align with GBU Life's four Community Pillars: Wellness, Education, Charitable Giving and Hometown Hero Support.

Why it matters

The Community Grant Awards program is designed to strengthen communities by supporting nonprofit organizations making a meaningful difference where people live and work. By allowing the public to vote, the program empowers local communities to elevate the causes and organizations that matter most to them.

The details

Following a competitive nomination and judging process, a group of finalist organizations has been selected for consideration. Community members across the country nominated impactful nonprofits, and a selection committee evaluated submissions based on organizational mission, demonstrated community impact and alignment with the Community Pillars. Voting will take place from February 13, 2026, through 11:59 PM ET on February 28, 2026, and grant recipients will be announced during the GBU Foundation Community Grant Awards event on April 9, 2026, with awards of up to $10,000 helping nonprofits expand programs and services.

  • Voting will take place from February 13, 2026, through 11:59 PM ET on February 28, 2026.
  • Grant recipients will be announced during the GBU Foundation Community Grant Awards event on April 9, 2026.

The players

GBU Foundation

A 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to helping donors achieve their philanthropic goals by awarding grants and scholarships that align with GBU Life's four Community Pillars: Wellness, Education, Charitable Giving and Hometown Hero Support.

GBU Life

A member-owned, fraternal benefit society founded in 1892 to help individuals secure their futures, build their legacies and support their communities.

Ken Elliott

GBU Life Senior Charitable Partnerships Specialist.

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What they’re saying

“The Community Grant Awards program is rooted in the belief that strong communities are built when we come together to support one another. By aligning this program with our four Community Pillars and giving the public a voice through voting, we're empowering communities to help elevate the organizations making a meaningful difference where they live and work.”

— Ken Elliott, GBU Life Senior Charitable Partnerships Specialist (EINPresswire)

What’s next

Grant recipients will be announced during the GBU Foundation Community Grant Awards event on April 9, 2026.

The takeaway

The GBU Foundation's Community Grant Awards program empowers local communities to support the nonprofit organizations making the biggest impact in their areas, aligning with the organization's mission to strengthen communities and improve quality of life.