AWS Foundation awards grants to support children and adults with enduring intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities. Their mission focuses on enabling individuals to live as independently as possible, be included in the community, and function at their highest potential.
The grant program has a specific focus on helping individuals with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities such as Down syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, traumatic brain injury, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, fragile X syndrome, and fetal alcohol syndrome. It aims to enhance the quality of life for these individuals by promoting social enrichment through inclusive and accessible programs, improving access to education and meaningful employment, increasing opportunities for accessible transportation within the community, supporting early diagnosis and effective therapies, and expanding options for safe, secure, and affordable housing. The foundation outlines five priority initiatives: Social Enrichment, Education & Employment, Transportation, Early Diagnosis & System Navigation, and Housing. Their funding priorities include program support, capital projects, and operating expenses. Additionally, the foundation offers "Mighty Money" mini-grants to provide quick funding for not-for-profit organizations with innovative ideas.