While we employ different approaches to promote the work of nonprofit, community-based, consumer-focused organizations that work to provide equitable access to health care for vulnerable populations in the DC metropolitan area, grantmaking remains our primary activity.  We have three grantmaking programs:  Strategic, Responsive, and Community Outreach and Education.

Strategic

Our Strategic Initiative, Improving Access to Health Care, comprises about 95% of our total grantmaking.  These grants are not solicited through a formal Request for Proposals (RFP) process at this time.  This initiative focuses on improving access to quality health care through two frames -- creating a regional system of patient-centered care as well as health justice.  Our grants emphasize consumer empowerment and education, prevention and wellness, advocacy and health systems/policy reform with a focus on improving access to quality health care and reducing health disparities.  An example of a strategic grant is support for the Medical Homes project of the DC Primary Care Association, which is working to create a city-wide infrastructure of clinics to ensure that all of the city's residents have access to affordable, accessible, high-quality medical care.  

Responsive

These grants give us flexibility to respond to unanticipated and sometimes even emergency community health needs.  They often reflect innovative and effective approaches to priority health issues and challenges in the DC region.  An example of a recent responsive grant is to support Crossings HealingWorks, which provides on-site stress reduction services for the caregivers of soldiers returning from the war in Iraq at Walter Reed Army Medical Center.

Community Outreach and Education

These small grants of $500-$2,500 allow us to operate as a community resource beyond traditional grantmaking.  These grants include support of consumer and community-based health fairs, convenings and conferences.  An example of a recent grant is to the Suitland Family and Life Development Corporation to support its HealthFest Women's Health and Wellness Forum for the Suitland community and Hunter Memorial AME Church.

Within our mission, our work centers on reducing the racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic health disparities that exist in accessing health care and health outcomes.

We will support consumers in their efforts to take control of their own health and participate in all levels of health care decisions. To achieve this, we will integrate consumer voices, interests, and needs into our work.