TOWN OF ROCKLAND, NY — The Lazare and Charlotte Kaplan Foundation, a component fund of the Community Foundation of Orange, Sullivan and Rockland, has opened its 2026 grant cycle. These grants support supplemental youth programs and projects outside the regular responsibilities of schools or government agencies, and are specifically designed to support charitable organizations, community programs and educational initiatives that benefit young people. 

Priority is given to initiatives benefiting the youth of Livingston Manor, but the surrounding communities in the Town of Rockland are considered as well.

Organizations offering programs in education, the arts and sciences, skilled trades, afterschool activities, youth competitions, recreational opportunities, and other youth-focused efforts are encouraged to apply.

“The Lazare and Charlotte Kaplan Foundation has a long history of opening doors for young people in Livingston Manor,” said Elizabeth Rowley, president and CEO of CFOSR. 

Founded in 1965 by renowned diamond merchant Lazare Kaplan, the Lazare and Charlotte Kaplan Foundation was established to uplift individuals and strengthen communities. Since 2015, the Foundation has awarded over $2 million in scholarships to graduates from Livingston Manor and Roscoe Central Schools and has provided critical support to numerous nonprofit organizations and community-based initiatives.

Grants beginning at $250 will be awarded based on need and merit to qualifying organizations whose programs align with the foundation’s mission. The deadline to apply is November 15, and recipients will be announced in December.

Submit applications online at www.kaplan1965.org/community-fund by November 15.

To learn more, call Gary Siegel at 845/798-2188 or email president.kaplanfoundation@gmail.com.