The Murray and Agnes Seasongood Good Government Foundation is devoted to the causes of good local government, the merit system in selecting public employees, and citizen participation in public affairs. The Foundation values innovation and creativity in ideas for improving government and believes this should manifest across all causes the Foundation supports. The Foundation makes grant decisions on a quarterly basis. Visit the grant applications page for deadlines and access to the online application form.

When considering grant proposals, the Trustees have identified the following strategic priorities for funding:

  • Ethical Behavior in Government: projects that promote ethical understanding and behavior among elected and appointed officials.
  • Public Safety and Community Relations: Projects building productive relationships to assure equal justice.
  • Voter Engagement: Projects that increase voter turnout by educating people about the importance of voting and the voting process and by reducing barriers to voting.
  • Civic Engagement: Projects that engage others regardless of citizenship status in taking action to identify and address issues of public concern and make a difference in the civic life of our communities.
  • Government Structure, Management and Operations: Projects that promote best practices and processes in government organizations.
  • Student Internships: Grants to government organizations in the region to support undergraduate (junior or senior) or graduate college student interns with an intention around public service. Student Internships have their own application and are considered at the November board meeting.

    In 2023, the Trustees will also give special attention to projects addressing Ohio Redistricting, Affordable Housing, and Electoral Participation.

    45+Yrs

    Seasongood Foundation has sponsored summer internships with the City of Cincinnati.

    $730,000+

    Grants awarded by the Seasongood Foundation in the past 3 years.

    $3.5M+

    Grants awarded since Seasongood Foundation’s inception in 1987.