Grants focus on transforming the health and well-being of rural North Dakotans.
Fargo, N.D. Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota Caring Foundation, in partnership with the Center for Rural Health (CRH) at the University of North Dakota (UND) School of Medicine & Health Sciences, is now accepting grant proposals for the 2024 Building Healthier Rural Community (BUILD) Grants program. Up to eight recipients will receive $5,000 to $7,500 for their projects working to transform the health of rural North Dakotans. The deadline to send a proposal is 5 p.m. (CT) Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, via UND CRH’s online application system.
The BUILD Grants program aims to make an impact by addressing social determinants of health (SDOH) at the local level in rural North Dakota. The primary mission of these grants is to cultivate a future of health equity and well-being for all.
Social determinants of health (SDOH) carry major influence over individuals' overall health, well-being, and their quality of life. They encompass a wide array of factors, such as:
- Ensuring secure and safe housing, reliable transportation, and well-maintained neighborhoods
- Supplying access to behavioral and mental health services and essential support systems.
- Combating issues related to racism, discrimination, and violence that affect physical and mental well-being.
- Enhancing educational opportunities, increasing job prospects, and improving income levels.
- Facilitating access to nourishing foods and opportunities for physical activity.
- Promoting language proficiency and literacy skills to ensure access to essential information.
Selection priority will be given to applicants with robust and varied community partnerships that emphasize long-term sustainability. Applicants have the choice to seek funds for multiple activities or projects within a single grant request, provided they align with the core vision of the BUILD Grants Program. The funding period will take place from Jan. 1, 2024, through Dec. 31, 2024.
To learn more about submitting a grant proposal, visit https://ruralhealth.und.edu/projects/bcbs-grant-program.
About 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.
