North Dakota communities and organizations can now submit letters of intent for grants of up to $50,000.
FARGO, N.D. The Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota (BCBSND) Caring Foundation is now accepting letters of intent for spring 2024 CaringForCommunities SPARK (Strengthening People, Access, Resources and Knowledge) Grants. A limited number of one-year annual grants in amounts of up to $50,000 will be awarded to North Dakota communities and organizations undertaking efforts to support community-based wellness and prevention. The goal of these grants is to enhance collaborative efforts and community involvement while creating lasting change.
As shown by Caring Foundation’s Social Determinants of Health study, our health is significantly impacted by where we live. That is why the BCBSND Caring Foundation invests resources through SPARK Grants to help enhance healthy lifestyles, address service gaps and promote health equity in North Dakota communities.
BCBSND Caring Foundation Executive Director, Amber Blomberg says, “The purpose of these grants is to help close the health gap through community-driven action; supporting initiatives that empower underserved communities to improve health habits, collaborate effectively and expand access to equitable health care.”
To be considered, organizations must support initiatives that:
- Encourage health and well-being in North Dakota.
- Exhibit collaboration with community stakeholders.
- Align with evidence-based best practices and principles.
- Grow to be sustainable and a priority for the community.
For example, initiatives may aim to:
- Lower use of tobacco/nicotine/vaping products.
- Raise awareness for behavioral health/suicide prevention.
- Host community gardens and farmers markets for easy access to fresh produce.
- Encourage physical activity by improving bike trails and adding mileage signs.
Those interested in applying for a SPARK Grant must submit a Letter of Intent by 5 p.m. (CT), Wednesday, Jan. 31 to be considered for the 2024 spring cycle. Organizations must be North Dakota-based 501(c)(3) non-profits, municipal entities (i.e., park boards, public health) or school systems.
The Caring Foundation will contact organizations within two weeks to inform them if they are invited to fill out a SPARK Grant Application. These applications are due Feb. 28. Letters of Intent and Grant Applications must be emailed to caringfoundation@bcbsnd.com.
The Caring Foundation will review all Letters of Intent and Grant Applications. Its staff will reach out with next steps if an organization’s application is accepted. On March 15, the Foundation will announce recipients for the 2024 Spring Cycle.
For questions, please email caringfoundation@bcbsnd.com.
About the Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota Caring Foundation
Established in 1989, the BCBSND Caring Foundation is a private 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Through giving and investing, the Caring Foundation focuses on key health issues to help improve the health and well-being of North Dakotans and their communities. Caring Foundation staff collaborate with grantees to support non-profit sustainability, promote shared outcomes and create lasting change.
