Asheville: Dogwood Health Trust Announces Request for Proposals to Strengthen Western North Carolina Policy Organizations

In an effort to strengthen policy and advocacy organizations in Western North Carolina, Dogwood Health Trust has announced a new request for proposals (RFP) from nonprofit organizations working on policy issues that align with Dogwood’s Strategic Priorities. The trust aims to ensure better representation of WNC voices in state-level policy conversations.

Grant Details

Nonprofit organizations interested in advocacy within the Qualla Boundary and Dogwood’s 18-county service region, or increasing the representation of WNC issues on a statewide level, may apply for two-year grants ranging from $50,000 to $250,000. Dogwood is looking to fund both local organizations as well as statewide organizations.

Statement from Dogwood Health Trust

Dr. Susan Mims, CEO of Dogwood Health Trust, emphasized the importance of policy change in addressing the region’s most challenging problems. She stated, “Realizing our collective goals requires thoughtful examination of the underlying causes of disparate health outcomes in our region. We’re investing in advocacy to identify and address policies that don’t serve the people of WNC facing the most challenges.”

Advocacy Activities

With this RFP, Dogwood is seeking to fund organizations engaging in a range of advocacy activities, including research, writing, data collection and analysis, organizing, coalition building, communications, public and decision-maker education, and civic engagement. However, as a private foundation, Dogwood Health Trust is not permitted to fund lobbying efforts.

Focus Areas

Emily Quinlan, Director of Public Policy for Dogwood Health Trust, stated, “Dogwood is focused on policies that impact progress in our strategic priority areas, including community equity, economic opportunity, education, health and wellness, and housing. We aim to help organizations increase their capacity to achieve policy goals and strengthen their work at both the state and local levels.”

Application Details

The Policy and Advocacy application will be available on April 1, 2024, with responses due by 5:00 p.m. ET on April 26, 2024. Award notifications are expected to be made by July 2024, with funds distributed in September 2024. Organizations interested in learning more are encouraged to attend a virtual information session webinar. Webinar registration is available on Dogwood’s website.

Contact Information

For specific questions or inquiries, organizations can reach out to Emily Quinlan at e.quinlan@dht.org.

About Dogwood Health Trust

Dogwood Health Trust is a private foundation based in Asheville, North Carolina, with the mission of improving the health and wellbeing of all people and communities in 18 counties and the Qualla Boundary in Western North Carolina. The trust focuses on addressing factors contributing to overall health and wellbeing, including housing, education, economic opportunity, and health and wellness.

Dogwood Health Trust envisions a Western North Carolina where every generation can live, learn, earn, and thrive with dignity and opportunity for all. To learn more about Dogwood Health Trust, visit their website.