The Northern Virginia Health Foundation is inviting grant applications aimed at enhancing the health of residents in Northern Virginia, particularly focusing on low-income, uninsured, or underinsured individuals. The foundation emphasizes the importance of addressing health disparities and seeks to support organizations that are community-based or resident-led. The grants are designed to strengthen the capacity of these organizations and foster social connectedness within communities, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes.

The purpose of the grant is twofold. First, it aims to strengthen the sector through capacity building grants, which focus on developing internal resources and infrastructure for organizations that are often small and under-resourced. These grants can be used for various activities, including staff development, infrastructure improvements, and planning for future programming. Second, the foundation seeks to enhance social connectedness within communities through grants that support initiatives aimed at reducing social isolation and loneliness, which have been identified as significant public health issues.

Funding for the grants ranges from $5,000 to $25,000. The specific duration of the grants is not mentioned, but they are intended to support activities that can lead to sustainable improvements in health and community engagement. The foundation does not require a matching contribution from applicants, making it more accessible for organizations with limited resources.

Eligibility for the grant is primarily focused on nonprofit organizations that are actively working in areas identified as 'islands of disadvantage' within Northern Virginia. Priority will be given to those organizations that are dedicated to improving health equity and reducing disparities, particularly those that have established trust within their communities. Eligible organizations must be recognized as 501(c)(3) entities.

The application process requires organizations to submit detailed proposals that address specific questions related to their projects. These questions typically focus on the goals of the project, the target population, and the expected outcomes. The evaluation criteria for the applications will consider the potential impact of the proposed activities on health disparities and community engagement.

The deadline for submitting applications is October 25, 2024. Organizations interested in applying should ensure that they meet the eligibility criteria and prepare their proposals in advance of this date. For further information, potential applicants can visit the Northern Virginia Health Foundation's website or contact the foundation directly via email or phone.

Overall, the Northern Virginia Health Foundation grant presents a valuable opportunity for nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving health outcomes in underserved communities. By focusing on capacity building and social connectedness, the foundation aims to create lasting change in the health landscape of Northern Virginia.