28 May $57,000 awarded from Community Health Improvement Grants
Four nonprofit organizations are the recipients of a total of $57,000 from the first year of Community Health Improvement Grants.
The grant program launched in the fall of 2023 out of a new three-year funding partnership between Hutchinson Community Foundation, Hutchinson Regional Medical Foundation and United Way of Reno County. Each organization is contributing $10,000 annually through 2025 to fund the yearly competitive program intended to help Reno County communities and partners make progress on the goals outlined in the 2023 Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP).
“We believe when we are working on goals for improvement that can impact our entire community, much more is accomplished when working collectively and collaboratively with other organizations and the CHIP supports that philosophy,” said Jessica Flax with Hutchinson Regional Medical Foundation.
The CHIP is based on the Community Health Assessment, a survey taken every three years to gauge the health of Reno County and identify emerging issues. From the survey data, Reno County’s Healthcare Access Taskforce then does further community engagement to determine the priority areas for the improvement plan. The current priority areas are substance misuse, mental health, access to care, and child care. The assessment and improvement plan may be viewed here: tinyurl.com/2stwda5v.
A joint selection committee of board members from the three funding partners reviews proposals and chooses the grant winners.
The following organizations received grants:
NAMI Reno County, $4,000: The grant will strengthen mental health resources in Hutchinson by offering support, education and advocacy, aiming to bridge the gap between those affected by mental illness and the resources available.
Milestone Clubhouse, $18,000: This grant distributed over three years aims to reduce the stigma of mental health in Reno County and increase engagement of individuals experiencing severe mental illness through employment, education and enhanced relationships.
Fight the Stigma Inc., $5,000: The grant will help identify and assist individuals with mental health challenges in Reno County by improving the health, safety and organizations of their homes, removing barriers to individuals receiving access to care.
Open Door Health Services, $30,000: This grant distributed over three years will address early sexual activity and sexually transmitted infection concerns by providing sexual health and wellness programs to all Reno County middle school, high school and college-aged students to eliminate threats from high-risk sexual behaviors.
Those looking to join in community efforts are encouraged to reach out.
“If you’re inspired to get involved, please consider attending our mental health task force at the United Way of Reno County,” said Valerie Taylor with United Way of Reno County. Those interested may call her at 620-669-9329.
The next Community Health Improvement Grant cycle will open to project proposals in the fall.
“Congratulations to this year’s recipients. We look forward to following their progress and helping to tell their stories of impact in the coming years,” said Kari Mailloux with Hutchinson Community Foundation.