The Tillotson Menlo Charitable Foundation is now accepting applications for its 2026 grant cycle, continuing a program that has provided more than $8.4 million for projects benefiting Menlo, Chattooga County and surrounding areas over the past two decades.

The foundation was established in 2005 with a $1 million donation from Tillotson Corporation. Over the following five years, the corporation contributed an additional $9 million, bringing the principal contributed to the foundation to $10 million. The amount available for grants each year is generally determined by interest earned on the foundation’s principal.

According to its mission statement, the foundation seeks to support, promote, improve and maintain health, educational and cultural institutions serving residents of Menlo and Chattooga County, along with some surrounding areas.

Grant funding may be awarded for projects involving education and individual skills improvement, healthcare, economic development, community enhancement, individual and human development, arts, culture and social welfare, and environmental improvement.

Over the past 20 years, the Tillotson Menlo Charitable Foundation has awarded a total of $8,448,814 for 921 projects.

Organizations recognized as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, as well as other public agencies, are eligible to apply. This year, all 501(c)(3) applicants are required to include written verification of their current tax-exempt status.

Religious programs, individuals and start-up organizations are generally not eligible for funding.

Applicants should also be aware that previous versions of the grant application will not be accepted. Current blank applications may be picked up in the lobby entrance of the Tillotson Menlo Charitable Foundation office at 3056 Highway 337 in Menlo.

Questions concerning the application process should be directed to Administrative Coordinator Carol Mitchell.

The foundation’s board includes Zep Tambasco, Heather Stokes, Eddie Robertson, Jeffrey Richardson, Bill Alico, Menlo Mayor Kris Willis, Menlo School Principal Richard Rutledge, Robert McWhorter, Arch Farrar and Chattooga County Probate Judge Gary Woods. Mitchell serves as the foundation’s Administrative Coordinator.

Completed applications must be received by Mitchell no later than 4:30 PM Friday, October 23, 2026.

The foundation expects to announce its 2026 grant recipients in December.