Best Community Health Grants in Virginia

The ACT on Health Equity Community Solutions Challenge Grant, backed by the Astrazeneca Foundation, aims to enhance health equity by funding community-based nonprofit programs. Since its inception in 2021, it has allocated over $2.6 million to initiatives addressing nutrition, healthcare access, and lung health for historically marginalized populations. Eligible US-based 501(c) organizations can apply, with a focus on projects serving underserved communities and improving health outcomes through targeted support.

The Virginia ABC Grants provide funding of up to $10,000 for organizations aiming to prevent underage and high-risk drinking. Through community collaboration and education, these grants support various entities including schools and nonprofits. The program focuses on building capacity for effective alcohol education and emphasizes prevention efforts. Eligible applicants must align with the mission to promote alcohol safety and responsibility, ensuring a significant impact on community health and well-being.

The Express Health Information Outreach Awards aim to enhance public health by increasing access to biomedical information for U.S. health professionals and the general public. These awards support projects that improve health information literacy among consumers and caregivers, ensuring they can effectively find and utilize health information. Focused on partnerships and outreach to underrepresented communities, the initiative seeks to promote healthy behaviors, prevent illness, and improve health outcomes through informed decision-making.

Northern Virginia Health Foundation

Since the Northern Virginia Health Foundation’s inception in 2005, we have held to a clear mission: to improve the health and health care of residents of Northern Virginia, with a particular emphasis on the health needs of the uninsured. 

We focus our investments and partnerships on strengthening the region’s health safety net and addressing the conditions that shape residents’ health outcomes in order to build a healthier, stronger Northern Virginia. Over the past two decades, the Foundation has awarded more than $24 million in grants to organizations that:

• Increase access to primary care, mental health, oral/dental health, and/or specialty care for low-income uninsured or underinsured residents of Northern Virginia
• Respond to emerging community needs
• Address the social determinants of health

Northern Virginia Health Foundation Grant

The mission of Northern Virginia Health Foundation is to improve the health of residents of Northern Virginia. Many of the health issues confronting Northern Virginians are preventable and are not solely related to direct medical care. Those circumstances, the so-called social drivers of health, include such things as poverty, education level, race, and where people live, work and play. In turn, these social drivers are shaped by multiple factors including policies and systems of all kinds.

Collaboration across sectors is a key ingredient in working “upstream” to improve health outcomes. Meaningful partnerships among government agencies, nonprofit organizations and healthcare providers can lead to systems change. Moreover, collaboration across sectors can have a greater impact than the efforts of a single organization or a single sector.

As part of its 2026 grantmaking, the Board of Directors of the Northern Virginia Health Foundation is issuing this call for proposals for efforts that strengthen systems, change policies, or empower community change. 

The NNLM Region 5 Professional Development Award offers funding for individuals at member institutions to enhance their knowledge and skills in health-related areas. This initiative aims to support meetings, workshops, and training that focus on health literacy, public health, and evidence-based practices. By fostering professional development, the NNLM seeks to improve healthcare services and access to health information across various communities, ultimately contributing to better public health outcomes.

The Loudoun Chamber Foundation Grant, established in 2014, supports 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations serving Loudoun County. Grants of $2,000 to $5,000 prioritize economic development, education, public safety, and community health. Organizations must demonstrate their commitment to community welfare and the Foundation's objectives. Priority is given to Chamber members. Eligible applicants must publicize the grants and are encouraged to align their missions with the Foundation's strategic goals for impactful community contributions.

The Bon Secours Richmond Healthcare Foundation provides support through its Event Sponsorship Requests Grant, aimed at enhancing community health and well-being. Applications are accepted monthly, with a recommendation to apply at least six months prior to the event. This initiative emphasizes partnerships that build healthier neighborhoods and tackle social determinants of health, reflecting the foundation's commitment to serving the underserved and improving quality of life for all.

The Home Office Giving Program by the CarMax Foundation supports nonprofits in the Greater Richmond, Virginia area, focusing on education, health, and community resilience. With over $65 million invested in local causes, the program aims to uplift underserved youth and adults through initiatives in workforce readiness, health education, and neighborhood revitalization. This commitment reflects CarMax's dedication to fostering thriving communities and empowering individuals, ensuring a brighter future for families in the region.

Urban Agriculture Resilience Program

In 2020, the United States Botanic Garden (USBG) and the American Public Gardens Association (the Association) initiated the Urban Agriculture Resilience Program. Since its inception, the program has supported 131 urban agriculture projects nationwide, promoting public garden participation in collaborations that combine food growing and education while addressing food security challenges facing communities.

Over the program’s six years, we have awarded $2.7 million to 136 projects in 34 states and D.C. These programs have grown and shared over 750,000 pounds of produce, distributed more than 292,000 seedlings, and provided more than 53,000 hours of urban agriculture training to students, interns, and trainees.

2027 Urban Agriculture Resilience Program

The United States Botanic Garden (USBG) and the American Public Gardens Association (APGA) are partnering to support public gardens and their partners to facilitate collaborative urban agriculture, community gardening, and other food-growing projects. Applications for a new cycle will open this fall!

The 2027 Urban Agriculture Resilience Program will comprise a small group of projects seeking to sustain and institutionalize their work. Participants will receive funding to help build their programs.

• Build urban agriculture capacity in public gardens community
• Provide funding ($5,000 to $20,000 per participant/project)
• Share models and lessons learned with the broader community of public gardens

The Twin County Community Foundation Grants aim to enhance the quality of life in Carroll and Grayson Counties and Galax by supporting local 501(c)(3) organizations or government entities. The foundation focuses on initiatives that improve health, education, and general welfare. By fostering innovation, collaboration, and community engagement, the foundation strives to create meaningful and measurable impacts that uplift the region's residents and enhance their overall well-being.

The nccPA Health Foundation's Oral Health - Community Outreach Grant offers up to $2,500 for PA-led initiatives that enhance oral health awareness and treatment. Open to certified PAs, PA students, and organizations, this grant aims to empower applicants to bridge healthcare gaps in oral health. Applications are accepted year-round, promoting continuous engagement in advancing community health. This initiative highlights the vital role of PAs in enhancing access to oral healthcare services.

The SHAPE America Hall of Fame Award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to health and physical education, ensuring these fields remain central to educational programs. This prestigious award honors dedicated professionals, including educators and leaders, who have demonstrated exemplary commitment and leadership in promoting physical activity, health education, and related disciplines. Through their efforts, they enhance the quality of education and the well-being of students across the nation.

The Curriculum and Instruction Honor Award, presented by SHAPE America, recognizes outstanding contributions to health and physical education curriculum research. This prestigious award highlights the importance of effective instructional practices that prepare students for active and healthy lives. Award recipients are selected based on their scholarship in health education and physical education, demonstrating commitment to excellence since the organization's founding in 1885. SHAPE America advocates for quality education and promotes the well-being of preK-12 students across the United States.

This funding opportunity by the FDA aims to enhance education and public awareness regarding the risks associated with skin lightening products, such as hydroquinone. The initiative encourages innovative, community-based strategies that engage stakeholders in promoting health equity. Proposals should focus on outreach activities that strengthen the scientific understanding of these products while addressing public health concerns. This is a vital step in ensuring safer use and informed consumer choices.

The AMA Foundation Section Involvement Grant Program supports local campus section leaders at medical schools in enhancing student recruitment and engagement. Grants can provide up to $1,500 per year, with specific allocations for recruitment and community service activities. Examples of supported activities include organization fairs, public health lectures, and community workshops. This initiative aims to foster student involvement and empower local AMA sections to address important health topics within their communities.

The E.B. Henderson Award, presented by SHAPE America, honors minority members who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to scholarship, mentorship, and advocacy for ethnic minorities within health and physical education. Established in 1885, SHAPE America serves over 200,000 professionals, promoting high-quality education standards. The award recognizes individuals who have significantly contributed to increasing the participation of underserved populations in the field. Limited to two awards annually, it highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in health education.

The Community Grant Program, supported by the ARH Foundation, aims to enhance healthcare, education, and community involvement in Eastern Kentucky and Southern West Virginia. This program invites non-profit organizations to apply for funding to implement projects that improve the quality of life, particularly for women and children. Eligible projects should address health education, improve health outcomes, and promote collaboration among organizations, thereby fostering a healthier community.

The Health & Wellness Agency Grant, offered by the Jack and Jill of America Foundation, aims to empower disadvantaged communities by providing access to heart and mental health education. This grant supports 501(c)(3) organizations that align with the foundation's mission to enhance the well-being of African American children and families. Eligible applicants can receive funding to implement impactful health initiatives, while ineligible expenses include scholarships and operational costs.

The Wythe-Bland Foundation Grant supports health, education, and well-being projects that benefit the citizens of Wythe and Bland counties. Established in 2005 from the lease of Wythe County Community Hospital, this non-profit foundation aims to provide essential services and maintain financial stability by managing its resources prudently. There are currently no limits on grant sizes, allowing flexibility to meet the needs of prioritized projects. The foundation emphasizes sustainable investment for long-term community benefit.

The H. Hovnanian Family Foundation Grant supports the Armenian community in Armenia and the U.S., focusing on Monmouth and Ocean Counties, New Jersey. The Foundation prioritizes education, healthcare, arts, and youth development through grants to registered non-profits. Proposals should demonstrate sustainability and community impact, with favorable consideration given to projects that engage local stakeholders and foster collaboration. Applications are accepted year-round, with a maximum funding limit of $10,000 for operational expenses.

The Helen M. Heitmann Young Scholar Award, presented by SHAPE America, honors young professionals who have made significant contributions to research in curriculum and instruction within health and physical education. Eligible candidates must be current SHAPE America members and have 3 to 6 years of experience post-doctorate. This award emphasizes active involvement and scholarship in the field, encouraging innovative research that enhances educational practices for preK-12 students.

The PB&J Fund, established by the Charlottesville Area Community Foundation, aims to empower children and families through culinary education and improve access to nutritious food for under-resourced community members. By valuing respect, learning, caring, and collaboration, the Fund seeks to foster food sovereignty within the City of Charlottesville and Albemarle County. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and public schools, with an emphasis on innovative proposals that address food insecurity.

Better Health Together (BHT) is committed to enhancing community wellness through sponsorships. By collaborating with over 100 organizations in eastern Washington, BHT addresses critical health issues and supports events that elevate community voices. Organizations seeking funding should submit applications at least 6–8 weeks prior to their event to ensure timely review. BHT values partnerships that align with its mission and aims to invest in innovative solutions for community health challenges.

The Bill Kane Undergraduate Scholarship, awarded by SHAPE America, provides $1,000 annually to undergraduate students majoring in school-based health education at accredited institutions in the U.S. or territories. Eligible candidates must be full-time students with a GPA of at least 3.25. Alongside the scholarship, recipients receive a complimentary one-year membership with SHAPE America, promoting professional development in health and physical education.

The Barbara A. Cooley Master’s Scholarship, offered by SHAPE America, is a $1,000 annual award for master's level students enrolled in accredited health education programs in the U.S. Recipients can use the funds as they wish and receive a complimentary one-year student membership with SHAPE America. The scholarship aims to support future educators and enhance the quality of health education, promoting research and professional practice in the field.

The AES Hawaiʻi Foundation Grant supports communities near AES Hawaiʻi’s renewable energy projects, focusing on social justice, education, environmental stewardship, and community health. Preference is given to nonprofit organizations in these areas, but statewide entities may also apply. Successful projects should align with the Foundation’s impact pillars, demonstrate measurable community benefits, and address unmet needs, ensuring long-term positive effects on the local community.

The National Girls and Women in Sports (NAGWS) Legacy Award, established by SHAPE America, honors exemplary contributions to increasing opportunities for women in sports. This annual award recognizes current SHAPE America members who submit impactful proposals related to women's sports, with a monetary prize of $1000. The award will be presented at the National Convention & Exposition, with a special deadline of November 1st. Nominations can include various initiatives aimed at empowering women in sports.