MONTGOMERY – The Lazare and Charlotte Kaplan Foundation, a component fund of the Community Foundation of Orange, Sullivan and Rockland, is pleased to announce the opening of its 2026 grant cycle. These grants support supplemental youth programs and projects outside the regular responsibilities of schools or government agencies, specifically designed to support charitable organizations, community programs, and educational initiatives that benefit young people. Priority is given to initiatives benefiting the youth of Livingston Manor, but the surrounding communities in the Town of Rockland are considered as well.

Organizations offering programs in education, the arts and sciences, skilled trades, afterschool activities, youth competitions, recreational opportunities, and other youth-focused efforts are encouraged to apply.

“The Lazare and Charlotte Kaplan Foundation has a long history of opening doors for young people in Livingston Manor,” said Elizabeth Rowley, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Orange, Sullivan and Rockland. “We look forward to continuing that legacy by supporting organizations that are helping local youth discover new opportunities, develop their talents, and thrive.”

Founded in 1965 by renowned diamond merchant Lazare Kaplan, the Lazare and Charlotte Kaplan Foundation was established with a clear purpose: to uplift individuals and strengthen communities. Since 2015, the Foundation has awarded over two million dollars in scholarships to graduates from Livingston Manor and Roscoe Central Schools and has provided critical support to numerous nonprofit organizations and community-based initiatives.

Grants beginning at $250 will be awarded based on need and merit to qualifying organizations whose programs align with the Foundation’s mission. The deadline to apply is November 15, 2026, and recipients will be announced in December.

Each application will be carefully reviewed by the Lazare and Charlotte Kaplan Foundation’s Board of Directors and evaluated based on:

• Alignment with the mission and focus areas of the Lazare and Charlotte Kaplan Foundation
• Effectiveness in addressing the needs and priorities of local youth
• Organizational capacity and past success in delivering impactful programs
• Anticipated reach and long-term benefits of the proposed project

The Board may request additional information during the review process as needed. Interested organizations can submit their applications online at kaplan1965.org/community-fund by November 15.

For questions about the grant process or additional information, please contact Gary Siegel President, Lazare and Charlotte Kaplan Foundation, (845) 798-2188, president.kaplanfoundation@gmail.com or Lisa Mitchell, Programs & Donor Services Coordinator, Community Foundation of Orange, Sullivan and Rockland, (845) 769-9393.