The 1889 Foundation and Pennsylvania Rural Arts Alliance are partnering on the Creative Health Impact Grant (CHIG) Awards once again.

The awards will provide up to $60,000 in 1889 Foundation funds to support arts programs related to health and wellness in Cambria and Somerset Counties. In 2023, the grant deadline is set for June 30, and funded projects must be completed between Sept. 1, 2023 through Aug. 31, 2024.

CHIG funding comes from foundation funds that have been donor-designated to support arts programs with a health component. Here is a brief overview of the grant guidelines:

  • Grants will support effective arts projects and programs related to health and wellness that are offered by non-profit organizations. Funded programs must take place in Cambria and Somerset Counties.
  • Eligible entities will apply to the PRAA for grant funding, and applications will be evaluated based on a review by the 1889 Foundation Creative Health Impact Grants Committee. Awards will range from $1,000 to $6,000, depending on quality and quantity of applications.
  • Both new and established programs or projects are eligible, and collaborations between organizations are encouraged.
  • Funded activities could include but are not limited to exhibitions, performances, festivals, arts classes, and other programs that relate to health and wellness. Certain forms of activities, including capital expenditures, cash prizes, and hospitality expenses, are not eligible.
  • Applications from eligible entities will be evaluated based on the strength of the proposed project’s goals, its artistic component, and its potential to positively impact the health and wellness of the community. Additional considerations include the project’s management structure, budget and marketing plan.

The timeline for the grants award process is as follows:

  • New applicants wishing to apply for this grant funding must schedule a meeting (in person or by phone) with PRAA’s executive director to discuss the scope of the program or project. The meeting must be held at least three weeks before the grant deadline.
  • Applicants that have previously applied do not need to schedule a meeting, but must notify PRAA’s executive director of their intent to apply.
  • Applications must be postmarked no later than June 30, 2023. A brief presentation to the grant panel via Zoom is required in late July. Applicants will be notified of funding decisions in September.
  • Grant funding will be awarded in September 2023, and a final grant award agreement is required before checks are issued. Funded activities must take place between Sept. 1, 2023 through Aug. 31, 2024.
  • An interim report is required midway through the project year. More information about this report will be included with the grant check.
  • A final report is required no later than 60 days after the project’s conclusion, documenting its impact and detailing how funds were used.

For complete information, including detailed guidelines on the types of projects that are eligible, how to apply and an application form, visit the PRAA website at www.praa.net or email Rebecca Catelinet directly at director@praa.net.