Educational Grants

The Friends of Cape Henlopen State Park (FOCHSP) funds two grant opportunities. The Thatcher Education Grant and the Youth Educational Support (YES) Grant are designed to inspire youth groups to engage in programs focused on learning about nature and the environment. Below, you will find information about each program and application processes. Join us in fostering a love for nature in the next generation!

Thatcher Grant

Thatcher Grants may be applied to:

School Transportation costs to the park.
Nature Center/Park program fees for Title 1 Delaware schools.

Thatcher Grant Process:

First contact Richard Julian, Park Nature Center Manager, at (302) 645-6852, or Richard.Julian@Delaware.gov.
Complete the fillable application form here: Application Form
Submit the signed application to the Park's Nature Center Manager.
The Nature Center Manager will review the application to determine if the Park has the resources to ensure a successful class trip on the proposed date. After scheduling, applications are forwarded to the FOCHSP Board.
The FOCHSP Board considers the application and will reply to the teacher/group leader.

Youth Educational Support (YES) Grant

YES Grants may be applied to:

Transportation costs to the park.
Nature Center/Park program fees.

YES Grant Process:

First contact Richard Julian, Park Nature Center Manager, at (302) 645-6852, or Richard.Julian@Delaware.gov.
Complete the application form here: Application Form
Submit the signed application to the Park's Nature Center Manager.
The Nature Center Manager will review the application to determine if the Park has the resources to ensure a successful trip on the proposed date. Approved applications are forwarded to the FOCHSP Board.
The FOCHSP Board considers the application and will reply to the teacher/group leader.

Unlike Thatcher Grants, YES Grants:

Are open to Delaware-based non-profit youth organizations.
Are awarded preferentially to groups that have a sponsor/leader who is a current FOCHSP member.
Each youth group may be awarded only one grant per calendar year.
Participant's program may include environmental education or other topics.