2026 William Bernard McCloud Community Impact Awards

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The William Bernard McCloud Community Impact Awards honor the spirit of service, generosity, and community leadership that define Coastal Georgia. Presented annually by the Communities of Coastal Georgia Foundation, these awards provide vital operational funding to nonprofit organizations working across Camden, Glynn, and McIntosh counties.

Named in memory of beloved community leader Bernard McCloud, the program reflects his enduring commitment to compassion, collaboration, and strengthening the place he called home. Each year, the awards recognize organizations that are creating meaningful, lasting impact—supporting everything from affordable housing and education to environmental conservation, the arts, and services for children and seniors.

Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations serving Camden, Glynn, and McIntosh counties are encouraged to apply and be part of this growing legacy of community impact. 

Applications open June 1. If you have any questions, please reach out to mwolven@coastalgeorgiafoundation.org.

Please apply here:  online application portal.


 


Guidelines

Eligibility:

  • Applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations serving Camden, Glynn, and/or McIntosh counties. 
  • Awards provide general operational support for $15,000 per organization.   
  • All distributed funds are restricted to use within these three eligible counties. 

2026 Guidelines

May 20 Information Session


Grant Application Tips

To strengthen your application:

  • Clearly define your mission and community impact
  • Demonstrate measurable outcomes
  • Provide a realistic and transparent budget
  • Show alignment with community needs in Coastal Georgia
  • Ensure all required materials are submitted before the deadline

2026 Application Tips


FAQ

Who can apply?
Eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving Camden, Glynn, and McIntosh counties.                                                                             

What type of funding is provided?
General Operation.

How competitive is the process?
Highly competitive, with dozens of applicants each year.

Can first-time applicants apply?
Yes—many 2025 recipients were first-time applicants.

When will the awards be announced?
Awards are announced in mid-October.

2026 FAQ


Scoring Rubric

Applications are evaluated based on:

  • Community Impact – Demonstrated benefit to Coastal Georgia
  • Organizational Capacity – Ability to effectively use funds
  • Financial Clarity – Transparent and realistic budget
  • Alignment – Connection to community priorities
  • Sustainability – Long-term potential and impact

Scoring Rubric