A free training session to help potential grantees understand MSHF’s granting guidelines and the application process is scheduled for Wednesday, Nov.14, 2012 at 2 pm. It will be held at 950 E. Bogard Rd., Suite 220 in Wasilla. Interested parties can sign up by calling 352-2872 or emailing vreese@healthymatsu.org.

The application deadlines for Healthy Impact grants to be awarded in 2013 are as follows:

Cycle One:
Project Pitch: November 26, 2012 – January 10, 2013
Full Application: January 18, 2013 – February 28, 2013

Cycle Two:
Project Pitch: April 22, 2013 – May 30, 2013
Full Application: June 14, 2013 – August 1, 2013

MSHF uses a two-part application process for Healthy Impact grants. The first phase of the process is the Project Pitch phase. The Project Pitch is completed online at www.healthymatsu.org and includes information about the organization that is applying and a description of the proposed project. The Foundation reviews all pitches and then invites projects that most closely align with the Foundation’s criteria to move forward to the full application phase.

Potential grant applicants are encouraged to review the “Who and What We Fund” section of the Foundation’s website for information on the grant process and guidelines. MSHF supports organizations and activities that empower people; employ creative responses to problems; address root causes rather than symptoms; build upon community strengths; and offer measurable improvements in health and wellness. MSHF is particularly interested in supporting organizations that: 

• Expand access to health and wellness care, especially for people from low-income and otherwise disadvantaged communities.
• Demonstrate a commitment to diversity and inclusiveness in the targeting and delivery of services to reduce health disparities.
• Foster communication, cooperation, and coordination among service providers.
• Build programs and services that are sustainable.
• Have a strong and engaged board, staff and/or volunteer leadership.
• Have a board of directors reflecting Mat-Su representation.

Although Healthy Impact grant requests must be in excess of $15,000, smaller grant amounts are considered continuously under the Foundation’s Target Wellness grant program. As with Healthy Impact grants, Target Wellness grants must be applied for online at www.healthymatsu.org.

Applicants with questions about MSHF’s grant programs may contact Vickie Reese, program assistant, at (907) 352-2872 or vreese@healthymatsu.org for assistance.

Mat-Su Health Foundation is the official business name of Valley Hospital Association, Inc., which shares ownership in Mat-Su Regional Medical Center. In this capacity, the MSHF board members and representatives actively participate in the governance of Mat-Su’s community hospital and protect the community’s interest in this important healthcare institution through board oversight. The MSHF invests its assets into charitable works that improve the health and wellness of Alaskans living in Mat-Su. More information is available at www.healthymatsu.org.