🌟 2026 Boost for Teachers & Mentors Grant

Awarded by Grant Roberts Area Disability Supports (GRADS)

GRADS is excited to once again support the incredible work of teachers, mentors, and support professionals who go above and beyond for individuals with disabilities. If you—or someone you work with—are making a difference through empowerment, skill-building, or transitional support, this opportunity is for you!

👉 Please share this information with appropriate Special Services staff.

💵 Grant Overview

GRADS will award multiple $100 grants to eligible applicants who provide instruction or mentorship in areas including:

• Empowerment
• Job and vocational skills
• Self-help and independent living skills
• Communication and socialization
• Mental health support

Eligible applicants include:

• Middle and High School teachers
• Mentors
• Speech or Occupational Therapists
• Guidance Counselors

Grants are also available to mentors in Grant and Roberts County who support adults with disabilities living in the community and working toward greater independence.

We recognize that educators and mentors often invest their own time and resources. These grants are our way of saying thank you.

📝 How to Apply

Please scan, copy & paste, or handwrite the four questions on the back of the application page, along with your contact information, and submit by Monday, February 16, 2026.

Submit your application by:

📧 Email: charlie48@live.com
📬 Mail:
C. M. Athey
14476 5th Avenue
Big Stone City, SD 57216

📅 Important Dates

• Monday, January 5, 2026 – Boost for Teachers/Mentors Grant announced
• Monday, February 16, 2026 – Application deadline
• Thursday, February 29, 2026 – GRADS Board reviews applications
• Monday, February 23, 2026 – Grant awardees announced

🎯 Target Group

Projects should benefit:

• Middle and high school students with special needs in the transition phase of their education
• Adults with disabilities being mentored toward greater independence

Proposals may support individuals or groups and should focus on improving skills that help people with disabilities live as independently as possible in the community of their choice.

🗒️ Awardee Requirements

Grant recipients will be asked to submit a brief project summary by Thursday, April 30, 2026.
These summaries will be featured on the GRADS website:
🌐 gradisabilitysupports.org

✨ Thank you for the meaningful work you do every day. GRADS is proud to support you!