FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Jamee Rodgers, PhD., CEO, The Community Foundation
540-373-9292 x120
Fredericksburg Region, VA (August 18, 2026) — Amazon, in partnership with The Community Foundation, is continuing its investment in communities across the Rappahannock region with the 2026 Amazon Rappahannock Region Community Fund, which will award a total of $350,000 in grants to nonprofit organizations serving Stafford, Spotsylvania, Caroline, Culpeper, and Louisa Counties.
Building on the success of the fund’s inaugural year, this year’s investment increases the total available funding from $300,000 to $350,000 and expands the program’s reach to include Culpeper County. The fund supports nonprofit organizations working to strengthen communities, expand opportunity, and address local needs through innovative and mission-driven projects.
“Amazon is proud to continue partnering with The Community Foundation to invest in the organizations and community leaders who are creating meaningful change throughout the region,” said Lisa Schooley, Amazon Community Engagement Manager. “By supporting locally driven solutions, we can help communities build stronger, more inclusive, and more resilient futures.”
The 2026 Amazon Rappahannock Region Community Fund will support projects addressing one or more of six focus areas:
- STEM Education: Supporting hands-on learning, teacher training, access to technology, after-school programs, and career exploration opportunities for students of all backgrounds.
- Sustainability & Environment: Advancing conservation, renewable energy, sustainable practices, environmental education, and protection of natural resources.
- Community Development: Strengthening communities through initiatives related to affordable housing, workforce development, community improvement, economic growth, and civic engagement.
- Digital Skills: Expanding digital literacy and technology education through coding, technology training, online learning, and workforce readiness programs.
- Cultural Heritage Preservation: Protecting and promoting historical sites, traditions, and artifacts through restoration, archival preservation, and cultural education.
- Health & Wellbeing: Improving physical and mental health outcomes through health education, access to care, disease prevention, mental health services, and community wellness programs.
“The continued growth of the Amazon Rappahannock Region Community Fund demonstrates what is possible when national investment and local knowledge come together,” said Jamee Rodgers, PhD., CEO of The Community Foundation. “This year’s increased funding and expanded geographic reach will allow us to support even more organizations working to create opportunity and improve quality of life throughout our region.”
The Community Foundation will accept applications from eligible nonprofits serving the five participating counties beginning August 17, 2026. Applications must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on September 21, 2026. Following the application period, The Community Foundation will review proposals for eligibility and alignment with the fund’s priorities.
Nonprofit organizations interested in applying are encouraged to review The Community Foundation’s Grant Guidelines and Competitive Grant Opportunities for eligibility requirements and important dates.
Organizations seeking assistance in developing a proposal are encouraged to contact Casey Hu, Director of Donor Services, at casey.hu@cfrrr.org or 540-373-9292 x123.
For more information about the Amazon Rappahannock Region Community Fund, visit https://www.cfrrr.org/apply/amazon-rappahannock-region-community-fund/.
###
About The Community Foundation
The Community Foundation is a tax-exempt public charity dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for the more than 407,000 residents of Planning District 16, including the City of Fredericksburg and the counties of Caroline, King George, Spotsylvania, and Stafford. We partner with individuals, families, businesses, and organizations united by a shared purpose—strengthening our region through thoughtful, impactful philanthropy.
Since inception, the Community Foundation has invested more than $24.8 million in grants and scholarships to support the people, programs, and initiatives that define and uplift our community. Today, we steward 226 named charitable funds established by donors to address a wide range of causes—from education and workforce development to human services, the arts, and community vitality.
Beyond grantmaking, the Foundation serves as a trusted philanthropic leader and resource. We have provided more than 8,000 hours of education and training for local nonprofits, equipping organizations with the knowledge, tools, and connections needed to maximize their impact and build long-term sustainability.
With more than $60 million in net assets under management, the Community Foundation maintains a strong financial foundation and a long-term commitment to responsible stewardship. Our strength ensures that the charitable legacies entrusted to us continue to serve this region—today and for generations to come.
For more information, please call (540) 373-9292, email info@cfrrr.org or visit www.cfrrr.org.