This Giving Tuesday, December 2, the American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF) invites you to join us in advancing the future of occupational therapy.

Why support AOTF?

For 60 years, AOTF has invested in programs that empower OT students, researchers, and practitioners to pursue their passions. Each year, AOTF provides more than $750K in grants and $75K in scholarships to support aspiring OTPs and researchers throughout all stages of their careers. 

Your gift makes an impact by supporting multiple program types that help shape the next generation of OT leaders, including:

• Scholarships that help make students' OT dreams a reality.
• Fellowships that empower postdoctoral researchers and doctoral students to explore innovative ideas and push the profession’s boundaries.
• Research Grants that build essential evidence through early-stage research studies that improve care and outcomes of patients of all ages and backgrounds. When you give to AOTF, you’re not just donating; you’re investing in the future of the profession. Your contribution directly supports the people and projects that ensure occupational therapy remains a leading force for positive change.

How Can I Help?

• Donate Today: Any amount helps make a difference!
• Spread the Word: Share your support using #AOTFGivingTuesday 
• Follow Along: Stay connected through Dec. 2 to see the impact you're creating!

New This Year: State Scholarship Challenge

This Giving Tuesday season, not only will your donations fund education nationwide, but you'll also have the chance to compete for an extra $500 to fund an OT student in YOUR state! From now through December 2, every donation to AOTF counts toward your state's total. The four states with the most donors will each receive an additional $500 added to their state association's 2026 scholarship fund.

Fund a student in your state!

Are you an experienced research professional looking to shape the future of OT science? Become an AOTF application reviewer today! We’re currently seeking reviewers for our three signature early-career OT research grants, our Dr. Carolyn Baum Cognitive Function Mentor Award, and our multiple post-doctoral research fellowships and doctoral scholarships. 

Benefits 

By reviewing AOTF grant applications, you will:  

• Get a front row seat to emerging OT research 

• Connect with colleagues across the field 

• Expand your mentorship skills 

• Help shape the next generation of OT scientists 

Timelines 

Grant Review Cycle: December 2025 – February 2026 

Dr. Carolyn Baum Cognitive Function in Daily Life Review Cycle: November  – December 2025 

Fellowship and Scholarship Review Cycle:  March – April 2026 

Application Instructions 

 Fill out the survey below and email a copy of your CV to research@aotf.org by November 21 to become an application reviewer for our 2026 cycles. 

APPLY TODAY 

Don’t miss out! Advance the future of OT research today. 

Calling all OT students! 

Sign up for the 13th Annual American Occupational Therapy Foundation St. Catherine Challenge, a national student-led fundraising initiative for occupational therapy Intervention Research Grants (IRG), which fill a critical gap in OT research by providing funding for early-stage research studies. This type of innovative early-stage research is essential for scientists to collect pilot data, publish findings, and apply for larger grants to utilize the findings.

All first-time participating schools that sign up by Oct. 31 will be entered into a drawing to receive special American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF) Prize Packs! Sign up for this unique student-led challenge today using the form below!

Why join the AOTF St. Catherine Challenge? 

• Opportunity to win two complimentary student registrations for the AOTA 2026 INSPIRE conference, five free NBCOT practice exams, and tickets to exclusive AOTF events. A huge thank you to our sponsors for their award support!
• Have YOUR school be recognized nationally at AOTA's Annual INSPIRE Conference.
• Enhance the delivery of quality care and client outcomes by promoting evidence-based practice.
• Fill a critical gap in OT research by supporting AOTF's grants that provide essential early-stage research funding.
• Join a diverse community of students nationwide that are passionate about advancing the science and practice of occupational therapy.