The 1889 Foundation and Pennsylvania Rural Arts Alliance are partnering on the Creative Health Impact Grant (CHIG) Awards for the sixth time, with a slightly revised timeline due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The awards will provide funds from the 1889 Foundation to support arts programs related to health and wellness in Cambria and Somerset Counties. In 2021, the grant deadline is set for June 25, and funded projects must take place between September 1, 2021 and August 31, 2022.

“The extra time will allow for the current grantees to complete projects that were interrupted by the pandemic,” explained Rebecca Catelinet of PRAA. “Arts organizations and museums were closed, and most in-person gatherings could not take place. But our grantees have shown enormous creativity and resiliency, and we are looking forward to another great year.”

This is the sixth year of the 1889 Foundation’s partnership with PRAA for the CHIG Awards. The gift comes from foundation funds that have been donor-designated to support arts programs. 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 25, 2021. 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 2021, and a grant award agreement is required before checks are issued. Funded activities must take place between September 1, 2021 and August 31, 2022.
  • 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.