Continuing its focus on removing barriers for at-risk youth and young adults struggling to reach their full potential, Nantahala Health Foundation (NHF) began accepting grant pre-proposals on April 7 for funding to be awarded by the end of October.
“Far too many young people in Western North Carolina face overwhelming challenges that significantly impact their futures,” said NHF Board Chair Roger Plemens. “Poverty, lack of access to healthcare, limited educational opportunities, economic instability, and disengaged communities create roadblocks that prevent these youth from realizing their full potential.”
After hearing from youth development experts and researching solutions, NHF’s Board of Directors committed in 2024 to focusing investments on programs that address support for youth and young adults, specifically those aged 5-24. Growing up in environments with limited opportunities and high poverty rates, their families and caregivers struggle to meet basic needs, hindering their ability to reach their full potential.
Organizations with aligning interests are invited to apply for up to $50,000 to fund successful existing or innovative solutions to issues facing at-risk youth. Organizations with projects that could require more than $50,000 to be successful are encouraged to make their case within the application.
The Foundation is looking to partner with faith-based, nonprofit, and governmental agencies with a proven track record of providing these types of services, as well as those working to bolster educational opportunities – including early childhood programs, after-school support, and initiatives for college or career readiness – and economic stability, including job training, financial literacy education, and employment opportunities. Community engagement programs, mentorship, and leadership initiatives to help young people feel connected, valued, and empowered to give back will also be considered.
Pre-qualifying application questions for the 2025 grant cycle will be accepted until May 8. For more information, visit NantahalaHealthFoundation.org/grantmaking.