Charles A Lucas Foundation

Open & Accessible
Private Foundation
CHARLESTON, West VirginiaMicroEIN: 262138284
ChurchesHabitat for HumanityHealth CharitiesEducation NonprofitsHomeless Shelters

This organization is a private foundation dedicated to supporting a variety of charitable causes. Its mission encompasses aiding the homeless, providing educational opportunities, and offering hope and healing to children, among other initiatives. The foundation also focuses on health-related issues, particularly funding research for Parkinson's disease and supporting individuals affected by chronic illnesses. Additionally, it contributes to religious organizations and community development efforts, such as providing mortgage-free homes for injured veterans. Overall, the foundation demonstrates a commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable populations and fostering community well-being.

Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026

Ideal Applicant

Small to mid-sized charities working in religious ministry, health (Parkinson’s and related supports), education, housing/homeless services, or youth programs — especially groups with some WV connection or an existing referral to the trustee seeking modest one-time grants.

Good Fit

  • Faith-based congregation or program with demonstrated local impact (WV ties helpful).
  • Organizations serving people with Parkinson’s or other chronic illness.
  • Small housing or homeless-service organizations (including Habitat affiliates).
  • Education programs or smaller college/university initiatives.
  • Modest requests (typical grants are under $5,000) and a short, clearly written proposal by the stated deadline.

Geography

Broad

Observed grants in the latest year went to recipients in 11 different states; while the home state received a plurality (about 38% of dollars), a majority of funding went out of state.

Recipient Variety

Broad

In 2024 the foundation funded 21 distinct recipients across faith-based, health, education, housing and youth causes; although the top five recipients took half the dollars, the grant count and diversity of purposes indicate a broad recipient set.

New Applicants

Restrictive

The foundation explicitly states it funds only preselected applicants and requires written submissions, so unsolicited applicants are unlikely to gain entry; however observed new recipients in 2024 show the trustee does add organizations occasionally, but no open public application route is visible.

Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026