Investing in Community Supports for Older Adults in North Carolina

Dogwood Health Trust, a private foundation based in Asheville, North Carolina, is offering a targeted funding opportunity designed to enhance community support systems for older adults and their caregivers in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. With a focus on the 18 counties and the Qualla Boundary of Western North Carolina, this initiative recognizes the ongoing impacts of the storm and the rising needs of a growing older adult population. According to recent census estimates, more than 23% of adults in the region are aged 65 and older, signaling a demand for expanded services and resources. The “Investing in Community Supports for Older Adults” grant opportunity seeks to support organizations focused on improving health, housing, food security, transportation, mental wellness, and social connectivity for low- to moderate-income individuals aged 60 and above. Funding is available in two formats: general operating support for organizations whose core mission directly supports older adults and their caregivers, and programmatic or project support for initiatives that serve this demographic even if the applicant's broader mission is not exclusively focused on older adults. Grants will be awarded for a two-year period and will range from $50,000 to $150,000. The specific award amount will depend on organizational capacity, project scope, and alignment with Dogwood’s strategic priorities, which include housing, education, economic opportunity, and health and wellness. Importantly, Dogwood will not fund more than 25% of an organization’s total budget over any four-year period. Eligibility for general operating support is limited to 501(c)(3) public charities that serve older adults and their caregivers as a core mission. These organizations must serve the WNC region, though they are not required to be physically located there. Organizations ineligible for this funding type include government agencies, faith-based groups, individuals, and for-profit entities. For program or project support, a broader range of organizations may apply—including government agencies, faith-based organizations, and colleges or universities—so long as they serve the identified region. However, fiscal sponsor organizations, individuals, and for-profit entities remain ineligible. All funded organizations will be required to participate in the Dogwood Older Adult Collaborative, a year-long peer learning and systems planning initiative led by Health Resources in Action. Additional financial support will be provided for participation in this collaborative, which is expected to begin in December 2025 and span 12 months. The application window opens July 7, 2025, and closes at 5:00 PM ET on August 4, 2025. Applicants are limited to one submission per tax ID for either the general operating or program/project category. Applications must be submitted online. Awards will be announced between September and October 2025. Technical questions about the application process should be directed to Dogwood Health Trust’s contact team. Applicants can preview application questions via downloadable Word and PDF documents provided on the Dogwood website.