Things people ask us.

What is Something For Good?

Something For Good is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that gives small grants directly to people.

Our primary mission is to recognize and support people who consistently demonstrate extraordinary generosity, service, and care for others — beyond their professional roles, beyond organizational responsibilities, and beyond what most people would reasonably expect.

A grant is our way of honoring that work and saying thank you for it. Occasionally it also arrives at one of those rare moments when a little support, given at exactly the right time, can change what happens next.

Who can be nominated?

People who keep showing up for others in extraordinary ways. The teacher who spends evenings training rescue dogs to become companions for hospice patients. The handyman who provides free safety repairs and plumbing help for elderly neighbors. The Uber driver who gives free rides to families visiting loved ones in hospitals, often far from home. The neighbor who organizes a pop-up food pantry in her backyard. The mechanic who cuts and delivers free firewood to families struggling with heating costs. The young barber who gives free haircuts to veterans and to people preparing for their first day at a new job.

People already doing good who reach a moment when a small amount of support keeps that good going. Creating a prom for high school students with intellectual disabilities after many were bullied or excluded from traditional events. Replacing tools stolen from a handyman who had spent years helping elderly neighbors for free. Replacing the camera an aspiring photographer sold to help pay family medical bills, so he could keep documenting his community and teaching others. Buying a ping-pong table that drew young people into a remote community center offering online counseling.

How much are grants?

Most grants range from $500 to $2,500.

Can someone nominate themselves?

Yes. Sometimes asking for help takes as much courage as offering it.

Can nominations be anonymous?

No. Our process involves conversations and relationship-building, so nominators must identify themselves and be willing to participate in follow-up discussions if needed.

Do you fund nonprofits or organizations?

No. We support people, not systems.

Are grants restricted to specific expenses?

Usually not. We trust the person closest to the problem to know what will help most.

How long does the process take?

We review every nomination carefully and personally.

Most decisions take approximately two to three weeks from the time we receive a complete nomination, although timing may vary depending on the circumstances and the need for follow-up conversations.

Will every nominee receive a grant?

No. We wish we could support everyone doing extraordinary work or facing a difficult moment. Our resources are limited, and saying no to worthy requests is often the hardest part of this work.

How are decisions made?

We do not use a points system or formula.

We start by asking who deserves to be recognized. Most of our grants are a way to honor someone and to say thank you for what they have already been doing. Beyond that, we look for moments where a relatively small amount of support could strengthen something good that is already happening, remove a specific obstacle, or meaningfully change what happens next.

Do recipients have to repay the money, submit receipts, or provide reports?

No. These are gifts, not loans. We intentionally try to reduce bureaucracy, not create more of it.

Where do you make grants?

We are hyperlocal in approach and national in reach.

We rely on teachers, nurses, social workers, coaches, clergy, neighbors, and community leaders to help us identify extraordinary people in their own communities. Goodness exists everywhere.

Do you share recipients' stories publicly?

Only with permission. Some recipients love sharing their stories in hopes of inspiring others. Others prefer privacy. We respect both equally.

How can I support Something For Good?

You can support our work by donating, nominating someone, sharing stories of kindness, or helping us identify people making their communities stronger.

We believe kindness grows when it is noticed, celebrated, and supported.