The HEAL Fellowship for Journalists, offered by the Solutions Journalism Network, invites applications for its second class of fellows. This fellowship is designed for journalists who focus on reporting for and with young people, specifically to highlight systemic solutions that promote mental health. The program aims to support U.S. journalists in their efforts to address mental health issues affecting youth, such as anxiety, depression, and trauma, by amplifying effective solutions and fostering community engagement.

The primary purpose of the HEAL Fellowship is to enhance the quality of reporting on mental health issues and to promote solutions that can help young people thrive. The fellowship seeks to select ten U.S. journalists whose project proposals demonstrate a strong equity component and align with the HEAL criteria. These criteria include spreading rigorous reporting on mental health solutions, expanding access to this reporting for young audiences, assessing the impact of such reporting, and creating training materials to educate others on solutions journalism.

Funding for the fellowship ranges from $1,000 to $10,000, depending on the scope of the individual projects. The fellowship lasts for one year, beginning on October 23, 2024, and concluding on October 11, 2025. During this period, fellows will participate in monthly calls and professional development sessions, culminating in their accreditation as trainers in solutions journalism.

Eligible applicants for the HEAL Fellowship include journalists from all states and counties in the U.S. The fellowship prioritizes projects that address mental health issues and promote equity, making it particularly relevant for those who can demonstrate a commitment to these areas. There are no matching requirements for the funding, allowing for a broader range of applicants to participate.

Submission requirements and specific application questions have not been detailed in the provided information. However, interested applicants are encouraged to visit the Solutions Journalism Network's website for more information and to access the application process. The deadline for applications is set for October 8, 2024.

The evaluation criteria for selecting fellows will focus on the strength of the project proposals, particularly in relation to the HEAL criteria. Successful applicants will benefit from a supportive community of fellow journalists and access to exclusive professional development opportunities, enhancing their skills in storytelling, engagement, and fundraising.

Overall, the HEAL Fellowship represents a significant opportunity for journalists dedicated to improving mental health reporting and fostering solutions for young people. The program not only provides financial support but also emphasizes community building and professional growth within the field of solutions journalism.