Best Mental Health Grants in Arizona

The L.B. Research and Education Foundation Grant Program supports U.S.-based nonprofits focusing on innovative education and health solutions for underserved populations. Eligible organizations can apply by submitting a 400-word concept paper, and selected applicants may receive funding ranging from $10,000 to $75,000. The Foundation prioritizes projects that foster critical thinking and creativity, address health disparities, and encourage collaboration. There are no application deadlines, promoting year-round engagement.

The Diane and Bruce Halle Foundation focuses on enhancing opportunities for Arizona communities by funding direct-service organizations that address chronic poverty. They prioritize programs that fulfill basic human needs such as food, shelter, and emotional support. Organizations are encouraged to demonstrate effective leadership and financial management, and must align with the Foundation's mission. Preference is given to those providing essential services like food banks and job training, ensuring impactful outcomes for vulnerable populations.

The Gridiron Veterans Scholarship, provided by the Bob Woodruff Foundation, offers essential financial support for military veterans and first responders. This initiative focuses on wellness, rehabilitation, and recovery programs, ensuring participants can access mental health services, physical therapy, and holistic resources. The foundation prioritizes those facing emotional and physical challenges, empowering them to overcome barriers and improve their quality of life through customized, evidence-based support.

The BCBSAZ Foundation for Community and Health Advancement supports charitable events that align with health improvement initiatives in Arizona. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations and academic institutions. The foundation focuses on critical health issues such as mental health, chronic conditions, and health equity. Sponsorship applications must be submitted 60 days prior to the event date, with reviews conducted monthly. The foundation aims to enhance community health through strategic partnerships and impactful funding.

The Veterans Donation Fund Large Grant A.R.S. 41-608 supports programs benefiting Arizona's veterans and their families. Established by the Arizona legislature in 1999, the fund is sustained by tax-deductible donations and aims to engage the community in informing veterans about their benefits. Eligible applicants include local governments, non-profits, and academic institutions, focusing on issues like employment, health, and homelessness. This initiative is crucial for enhancing support services for over 600,000 veterans in Arizona.

RBC Foundation – USA aims to enhance community quality of life by supporting non-profit organizations that promote diversity and positive change. In 2023, it awarded over $2.8 million in grants, prioritizing youth programs for ages 15-29, arts access for diverse populations, and mental well-being initiatives. The foundation encourages sustainable projects that foster economic independence, providing critical support for education, mental health, and cultural enrichment, thereby making a significant impact across various communities.

Each year, the Governor’s Office of Youth, Faith and Family (GOYFF) awards state and federal funding to public and private organizations that address its priority issues through a formal application process.

Partnerships for Success (PFS)

With the implementation of the five-step Strategic Prevention Framework from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the GOYFF has partnered with organizations across the state to provide trauma-informed and culturally competent substance abuse prevention programming that aims to decrease marijuana and underage drinking misuse and abuse by current or former foster youth ages 9-20 and their caregivers.

The Strategic Prevention Framework (SPF) Partnerships for Success (PFS) grant is distributed by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to the Governor’s Office of Youth, Faith and Family (GOYFF) in partnership with the Arizona State University College of Health Solutions. Using the Strategic Prevention Framework, approximately $1.2 million annually will work to enhance protective factors and reduce risk factors for substance misuse in youth and young adults by implementing the Arizona Prevention and Well-being Improvement Collaborative (PWIC). 

Based on the results of a community health assessment, the PWIC will bring together 27 organizations focused on preventing substance use and increasing mental well-being among youth and young adults from underserved minority groups to participate in a five-year collaborative. During this time, organizations will access expert education, tailored technical assistance, an online training certificate program, and quality improvement support through a peer-led model where organizations teach one another how they learned to adopt an evidence-based program or improve an existing one.

The PWIC will be the first collaborative in Arizona to promote evidence-based substance use prevention through peer learning and quality improvement support. Additionally, the PWIC will establish relationships between community organizations, promoting community cohesion and empowering participants to adopt evidence-based practice.

The specific goals of the Arizona Prevention and Well-being Improvement Collaborative:

• Determine prevention and well-being gaps between current conditions in Arizona and desired conditions.
• Recruit Arizona community organizations serving youth and young adults.
• Increase awareness of substance use prevention and mental well-being in Arizona communities.
• Provide training and technical assistance to community organizations on substance use prevention and mental well-being.
• Develop and implement evidence-based prevention and mental health promotion programs.

About Us

The Arizona Department of Health Services promotes and protects the health of Arizona’s children and adults. We strive to set the standard for personal and community health through direct care, science, public policy, and leadership. The department operates programs in the following areas:

• Disease prevention and control
• Health promotion
• Community public health
• Environmental health
• Maternal and child health
• Emergency preparedness
• Regulation of childcare centers, assisted living centers, nursing homes, hospitals, other health care providers, and emergency services.

ADHS Vision

Health and Wellness for all Arizonans.

ADHS Mission

To promote, protect, and improve the health and wellness of individuals and communities in Arizona.

ADHS Core Values

Every day we strive to embody our mission with the guidance of our core values: integrity, collaboration, accountability, equity focus, excellence, and dedication.

These core values not only lead our ADHS team, but represent us and our commitment to helping Arizonans live healthier lives.

Marijuana Research Studies and Clinical Trials Grant Program

The Marijuana Research Studies and Clinical Trials Grant Program provides funding to support research that aims to improve the health and well-being of Arizona residents. These grants are designed to encourage scientific exploration and clinical trials that can lead to new insights and therapeutic applications of medical marijuana.

Marijuana Research Grants - Clinical Trials

Pursuant to Laws 2021, Chap. 419, 55th Leg,, 1st Reg., HB-2298, Sec. 1, Arizona Revised Statute (A.R.S.), through the addition of Section §36-2812, the State Department of Health Services’ Arizona Biomedical Research Centre (ABRC) shall provide competitive grants from monies in the medical marijuana fund, established by A.R.S. Section §36-2817 for marijuana clinical trials that are approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for evaluating both the safety and efficacy of using marijuana in humans and researching the impacts of marijuana interactions with prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and illicit drugs.

The ABRC may provide up to $5,000,000 annually for five consecutive years from the medical marijuana fund established by A.R.S. Section §36-2817 to administer and award competitive grants pursuant to HB-2298.

Marijuana Grants - Research Studies

The Director of Health Services shall make a one-time transfer of $250,000 from the medical marijuana fund to provide grants for marijuana research studies pursuant to A.R.S. Section § 36-2812.

The BCBSAZ: Mental Health Matters Grant offers funding for Arizona-based organizations focused on improving mental health resources, reducing stigma, and promoting access to care. Eligible applicants include non-profits and academic institutions, with a priority on projects that demonstrate measurable impact and scalability. This invitation-only grant emphasizes the importance of addressing chronic health conditions and health equity, aiming to transform health outcomes in the community.

The Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona Foundation supports Arizona-based organizations through its Charitable Event Sponsorship Process. Grant opportunities are offered to programs addressing chronic conditions, mental health, health equity, and substance use disorders. Non-profit organizations and academic institutions are eligible for funding, while lobbying and capital expenditures are excluded. Applications are accepted starting in January, with reviews conducted on the 15th of each month, promoting impactful health initiatives across the state.

The Dell Scholars Program, established by the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation, provides scholarships and support to empower students in their journey towards college graduation. It offers flexible funding for tuition, housing, and essential expenses, ensuring students can focus on their education. Alongside financial aid, scholars receive academic coaching, career guidance, and mental health resources, fostering resilience and success. Since 2004, it has helped over 6,000 scholars, including 4,500 graduates, achieve their academic goals.

The Center for Family Engagement Healthy Minds Fellowship, organized by the National PTA, invites active PTA leaders to enhance their mental health expertise over a 12-month cohort starting January 2026. Participants will receive a $1,500 stipend and engage in developing actionable plans to improve mental health initiatives in schools. This fellowship aims to empower leaders through workshops and collaborative efforts, fostering a supportive environment for mental wellness in educational settings.

The Albert G. and Olive H. Schlink Foundation, established in 1966, has significantly impacted Ohio's nonprofit sector by increasing its annual grant distribution from an initial $500 to over $1.4 million in 2023. The Foundation prioritizes organizations with ties to Erie and Huron Counties and emphasizes thoughtful evaluation of all grant applications. With a focus on community needs, it continues to honor the founders' legacy while adapting to the evolving demands of local nonprofits.

The Thriving Community Impact Fund offers grants up to $2,499 to support local programs that enhance community health and well-being. This initiative by Gundersen Health emphasizes collaboration, focusing on areas such as physical and mental health, poverty alleviation, and neighborhood improvements. Organizations like non-profits and government agencies can apply for funding during a rolling application period, with decisions made monthly. The fund aims to empower communities and address health inequities through impactful partnerships.

The Thriving Community Impact Fund offers grants ranging from $2,500 to $49,999 to support community health initiatives. Gundersen Health emphasizes collaboration and addressing social needs to foster well-being. Eligible organizations include non-profits, schools, and government agencies. The fund prioritizes projects that align with the Community Health Improvement Plan, focusing on health equity, civic engagement, and neighborhood enhancement. This initiative aims to empower communities and improve health outcomes while fostering corporate social responsibility.

The Day-End Dough-Nation® Program by Panera Bread exemplifies community generosity through the donation of unsold bakery products to local charities. This impactful initiative supports various organizations that distribute food to those in need, including shelters, health centers, and youth programs. By partnering with thousands of non-profits nationwide, Panera Bread not only reduces food waste but also plays a crucial role in addressing hunger and promoting equality within communities.

The Daland Fellowships in Clinical Investigation, awarded by the American Philosophical Society, support research in clinical medicine across various fields, including internal medicine and psychiatry. Each fellowship provides $40,000 annually for up to two years, contingent on satisfactory progress. Eligible candidates include those with recent M.D. or Ph.D. degrees, and applicants must conduct research under a scientific advisor in the U.S. Preference is given to those with limited postdoctoral training.

The Will Rogers Motion Picture Pioneers Assistance Fund offers crucial financial support and counseling for individuals in the theatrical exhibition and distribution sectors facing health-related challenges. This fund assists with medical expenses, housing emergencies, and essential services like vocational rehabilitation and equipment aid. Eligible applicants must have a minimum of three years in exhibition or five years in distribution. The fund aims to provide a safety net for those impacted by illness, injury, or significant life changes.

The Disaster Distress Helpline (DDH) offers 24/7 crisis counseling to individuals in the U.S. and its territories facing emotional distress from disasters. Managed by SAMHSA, the helpline aims to enhance and strengthen access to crucial support services year-round, ensuring that those affected by natural or human-caused disasters receive the help they need to mitigate behavioral health impacts.

The Cooperative Agreements for Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) Planning Grants aim to assist states in developing certification systems for CCBHCs and establishing Prospective Payment Systems (PPS) for Medicaid services. Eligible applicants include state mental health authorities and agencies responsible for substance abuse and Medicaid. This initiative supports states that have not previously participated in the CCBHC Demonstration Program, fostering improved mental health and substance use care.

The Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs) Grant aims to improve community behavioral health systems by funding the development and implementation of CCBHCs. This initiative focuses on providing comprehensive care, including outreach, assessment, and recovery support for mental health and substance use disorders. Eligible applicants include community-based non-profit organizations and entities affiliated with local government or tribal authorities. The program emphasizes access to high-quality services regardless of an individual's ability to pay.

The Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) Improvement and Advancement Grant aims to enhance community behavioral health systems to provide comprehensive care. This program focuses on improving CCBHCs that meet certification criteria, offering a wide range of services including outreach, assessment, treatment, and recovery support. It prioritizes organizations that serve individuals with mental health and substance use disorders, ensuring access to quality care regardless of payment ability.

About

Central Carolina Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps generous people give back to the Midlands of South Carolina in ways that matter. Since 1984, we’ve been a trusted partner, helping individuals, families, and businesses make smart, meaningful contributions that support local nonprofits, scholarships, and community projects.

Jeryl Salmond II Memorial Scholarship ($1,700)

This renewable scholarship is available to students who are pursuing a career in the Mental Health field. 

Patricia Schroder Memorial Scholarship

Pat had a big heart for helping others and devoted her life to assisting, teaching, and coaching students with disabilities. She worked as a special education teacher's assistant at various schools across the Evergreen School District after earning her Masters, she moved to White Salmon, Washington, where she taught at Columbia High School. In 1994, she moved back to Vancouver and accepted a teaching position at Camas High School where she taught social studies and special education. She retired in 2010 after more than 16 years with the Camas School District.

Pat had a big heart for helping others. She loved and took interest in many of her students throughout her teaching career. She was also actively involved in Special Olympics as a coach and volunteer in addition to providing temporary respite care relief for families of children with special needs.

Additionally, Pat developed a passion for politics at an early age when she first served as a government page at the Washington State Capitol during her senior year in high school. She became an active member in Washington State Democrats, where she attended state democratic caucuses and managed senatorial and legislative campaigns. She also successfully spearheaded the passage of levy and bond election campaigns to support educational programs in the Evergreen School District. Her love for politics later resulted in her running and being elected as Mayor of the city of White Salmon in 1992, where she held the post for two years. Pat enjoyed visiting Frisco, Texas to spend time with her family whenever she could.

Award Amount

2 scholarships are awarded each year. Awards will likely be between $1,000-$1,400.

The ALACRITY Research Centers, funded by the National Institute of Mental Health, aim to enhance the effectiveness of mental health interventions for youth and adults. This initiative supports interdisciplinary research to develop innovative approaches for optimizing mental health care access and quality. By fostering collaborations across various fields such as behavioral science and health systems engineering, the program seeks to transform clinical practices and improve outcomes for individuals facing mental health challenges.

The TMCity Foundation Grant supports innovative research in neurocognitive healthcare, with funding ranging from $25,000 to $250,000. This grant aims to address critical challenges in mental health by fostering cutting-edge research and transformative technologies. Applicants, preferably 501(c)(3) organizations, can submit letters of inquiry on a rolling basis, with a focus on projects based in Southern California and the Greater Boston area. The Foundation is committed to catalyzing advancements in understanding the brain and delivering effective treatments.

The Bonita Kraft Occupational Therapy Doctoral Student Scholarship, valued at $5,000, supports doctoral candidates in occupational therapy focusing on mental health research. This scholarship honors Bonita Kraft, a dedicated advocate for integrating occupational therapy into mental health services. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a doctoral program, have IRB approval, and conduct research addressing chronic mental health conditions in adults. The scholarship aims to enhance the visibility of occupational therapy within mental health treatment.