The Vitalyst Health Foundation is currently accepting applications for its Spark Grants, which are designed to support coalitions in Arizona that aim to plan and identify solutions for systemic change. The grants are intended for coalitions formed by two or more organizations that serve the state of Arizona. The funding is available for a one-year period, with a maximum award of up to $25,000. By the end of the grant period, coalitions are expected to have outlined the necessary steps and estimated costs required to implement their systems change projects.

The primary purpose of the Spark Grants is to facilitate planning efforts that lead to systemic change within communities. The objectives include enabling coalitions to assess their readiness for planning, identify specific areas of the system they wish to change, and articulate how these changes will positively impact community well-being. The grants are particularly focused on projects that address various systemic issues, such as restorative justice practices or local food production.

Funding from the Spark Grants can be utilized for a variety of planning activities that contribute to the coalition's systems change project. This may include conducting assessments, engaging stakeholders, and developing strategic plans that outline the steps necessary for implementation. The grants do not require a matching contribution, making them accessible for coalitions with limited resources.

Eligibility for the Spark Grants is restricted to coalitions based in Arizona that consist of at least two organizations. To qualify, coalitions must demonstrate their readiness to plan their proposed systems change project, which is assessed through favorable results from the Wilder Assessment completed by all core partners. Additionally, coalitions must clearly define the specific part of the system they aim to change and explain how their desired change will enhance community well-being.

Applicants will need to submit a proposal that addresses specific questions related to their coalition's readiness, the intended impact of their project, and the details of the systems change they wish to pursue. The evaluation of applications will be based on criteria that include the coalition's readiness, the clarity of the proposed change, and the potential positive impact on the community.

The deadline for submitting applications for the Spark Grants is October 11, 2024. It is important for interested coalitions to prepare their proposals in advance to ensure they meet this deadline. For further information, applicants can visit the Vitalyst Health Foundation's website or contact them directly via email or phone.