The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board is offering mini-grants for youth-led projects aimed at reducing stigma related to mental health among peers. This initiative is supported by the Suicide Prevention Alliance of Northern Virginia and is funded by the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services. The total funding available for this program is $6,000, with individual grant requests not exceeding $1,000. The project period for funded initiatives will begin on November 6, 2024, and conclude on May 23, 2025.

The primary purpose of these mini-grants is to empower youth to take an active role in combating the stigma associated with mental illness and to promote suicide prevention within their communities. The objectives include educating youth about mental health facts, recognizing mental illness, seeking help, and promoting mental well-being among themselves and their peers. The program encourages youth to lead the planning and implementation of their projects, with adult mentors available to provide guidance but not to take on leadership roles.

Eligible applicants for these mini-grants include non-profit organizations with a 501(c)(3) designation, youth groups affiliated with such organizations, youth-serving groups connected to Fairfax County Public Schools, and public agencies other than the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board. All applicants must serve youth from Fairfax County, the City of Fairfax, or the City of Falls Church, and the projects must be youth-led, with adults acting only as mentors or sponsors.

The application process requires interested parties to submit proposals that align with the program's goals. Specific submission requirements and application questions are not detailed in the provided information, but applicants are encouraged to ensure their projects meet the eligibility criteria and objectives outlined by the grant program.

Evaluation criteria for the applications will likely focus on the project's potential impact on reducing stigma, the level of youth involvement in planning and execution, and the educational components related to mental health. The grant aims to support innovative and effective initiatives that resonate with the youth demographic in the targeted areas.

The deadline for submitting applications is October 18, 2024. It is important for potential applicants to be aware of this timeline to ensure their proposals are submitted on time. For further information or inquiries, applicants can contact the Fairfax County Community Services Board at the provided email or phone number. This grant opportunity represents a valuable chance for youth-led initiatives to make a meaningful difference in their communities regarding mental health awareness and stigma reduction.