FARGO - The BCBSND Caring Foundation is continuing to provide a limited number of one-year grants annually of up to $50,000 to North Dakota communities and organizations undertaking efforts to support health and community-based wellness and prevention. With the addition of these CaringForCommunities SPARK (Strengthening People, Access, Resources and Knowledge) Grants, the goal is to enhance collaborative efforts and community involvement that result in long-lasting change.
Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota Caring Foundation continues to build on efforts to support health and well-being throughout North Dakota. Evidence continues to show that where we live and what services and amenities are available to us have a significant impact on our health. The Caring Foundation will be investing additional resources at the community level throughout the rest of 2021 and beyond to strengthen opportunities to build collaborations that invest locally to enhance healthy lifestyles, address service gaps and promote health equities.
For grants to be considered, the project must support initiatives that encourage health and well-being within North Dakota communities, are sustainable, are a priority in the community, exhibit collaboration with stakeholders in the community and align with evidence-based best practices and principles.
Project examples could include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Raise awareness and enhance behavioral health and suicide prevention.
- Limiting the use of tobacco/nicotine/vaping products.
- Implement community, school gardens and farmers markets to increase access to fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Improve access to physical activity by enhancing bike trails and adding mileage signs.
And numerous others.
Those interested in applying for a grant must first submit a Letter of Intent form by 5 p.m. on Aug. 15 to be considered for their fall funding cycle. Eligible organizations must be North Dakota based 501(c)(3) nonprofits, municipal entities (i.e., park boards, public health) or school systems.
From there, the organization will receive notice within two weeks of the submission date on whether they are invited to submit a Grant Application. This application is due by Sep. 15 for the fall funding cycle (though, it is important to note, this application does not guarantee funding). All Letters of Intent and Grant Applications must be electronically submitted to caringfoundation@bcbsnd.com.
Once both steps are completed, all documents will be carefully reviewed. Provided the organization is accepted, the organization will be invited to complete a full application. Following the submission of this final application, the Foundation staff will advise the organization on the status of their application by Oct. 1 for the fall funding cycle.
For more information visit www.ndcaring.org or send any questions to caringfoundation@bcbsnd.com.
About the Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota (BCBSND) Caring Foundation
Established in 1989, the BCBSND Caring Foundation (www.BCBSND.com/Caring-Foundation) is a private 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Through giving and investing, the Caring Foundation focuses on key health issues that help improve the health and well-being of North Dakotans and their communities. Caring Foundation staff work with grantees to support nonprofit sustainability, collaborate on shared outcomes and create lasting change.
