Initiatives seek to address health gaps or system fragmentation by bringing together key stakeholders to find solutions to complex health-related problems.
Some initiatives originate internally, while others are requests from the community, with Health Forward playing a key leadership role in implementation of the initiative.
When reviewing requests or determining initiatives, Health Forward considers the reach of the project, collaboration among local/regional entities, and if the proposal will help change how health is perceived, promoted, and/or delivered to those most in need. Initiative funding can be a one-year or multi-year grant.
Organizations and key stakeholders interested in submitting a proposal or receiving information about interim/final reporting requirements should contact a program officer.
Special Initiative: Policy and Civic Engagement Grants
Lasting solutions to many health challenges can be found through local, state, and regional policy changes and systems reform. Health advocacy shapes the public debate on policy issues and can bring about positive change for those most in need.
Health Forward created the new Policy and Civic Engagement Fund to focus solely on supporting advocacy efforts across our bi-state service area. We have dedicated $1 million in 2021 toward this effort.
The organizations we partner with through Policy and Civic Engagement Grants address one of the following priorities:
- Grassroots organizing: Increasing grassroots power and influence in the health policy arena.
- Health care access: Advancing policies that expand health coverage and improve access to care.
- Housing policy: Increasing political will for policies that improve health by investing in safe, affordable, and healthy housing.
If you have questions about Health Forward’s Policy and Civic Engagement Grants, contact Tania Hewett-Mader at thewett@healthforward.org or (816) 241-7006.