Letters of intent accepted for grants up to $50,000

The Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota (BCBSND) Caring Foundation will provide a limited number of one-year annual grants up to $50,000 to North Dakota communities and organizations undertaking efforts to support community-based wellness and prevention. The goal of Caring For Communities SPARK (Strengthening People, Access, Resources and Knowledge) Grants is to enhance collaborative efforts and community involvement resulting in long-lasting change.

Evidence shows that where we live has a significant impact on our health. It also determines what services and amenities are available to us. This is why the BCBSND Caring Foundation invests resources locally through SPARK Grants to help enhance healthy lifestyles, address service gaps and promote health equity in the communities we serve.

Caring Foundation Executive Director Pam Gulleson says, “Our goal with these grants is to invest in community-based initiatives that will lead to improved habits and healthier lifestyles; strengthen capacity for effective collaborations; and expand efforts by local communities to improve health equity and access.”

To be considered, organizations must support initiatives that:

• Encourage health and well-being in North Dakota

• Are sustainable and a priority for the community

• Exhibit collaboration with community stakeholders

• Align with evidence-based best practices and principles

For example, initiatives may aim to:

• Lower use of tobacco/nicotine/vaping products

• Raise awareness for behavioral health/suicide prevention

• Host community gardens and farmers markets for easy access to fresh produce

• Encourage physical activity by improving bike trails and adding mileage signs

Those interested in applying for a SPARK Grant must submit a letter of intent by 5 p.m. (CT) Monday, Aug. 15, to be considered for the 2022 Fall Cycle. Organizations must be North Dakota-based 501(c)(3) non-profits, municipal entities (i.e., park boards, public health) or school systems.

The Caring Foundation will contact organizations within two weeks to inform them if they are invited to fill out a SPARK Grant application. These applications are due Sept. 15. Letters of intent and grant applications must be emailed to [email protected].

The Caring Foundation will review all letters of intent and grant applications. Their staff will reach out with next steps if an organization’s application is accepted. On Oct. 1, the Caring Foundation will announce recipients for the 2022 Fall Cycle.

For questions about SPARK Grants, please email [email protected].