Local Building Community Connections Grants

The Local Building Community Connections Grants are one of two funding pathways under the Vibrant Communities Mental Health Grant Program, a philanthropic initiative led by the St. Croix Valley Foundation and its nine regional affiliates. This grant opportunity focuses on fostering mental health and well-being by strengthening social connection, engagement, and belonging in communities throughout the St. Croix Valley. The program acknowledges that mental health is intricately tied to the fabric of community life and that building local resilience is key to regional well-being. This funding opportunity is designed for local organizations serving at least one of the Foundation’s nine affiliate communities: Amery Area, Chisago Lakes Area, Hudson, Lower St. Croix Valley, New Richmond Area, Northwest Alliance, River Falls, Somerset, and Stillwater Area. Unlike the Regional Mental Health Grants, which require a mental health-specific mission and multi-county reach, this grant allows applicants whose primary work may fall outside of mental health but whose programs clearly foster connection and community engagement that supports mental well-being. Funding may not be used for general operations but must be directed toward specific community-based programs or activities. Eligible projects could include school districts implementing mental health curricula or social-emotional learning, faith-based community meals, mentorship programs, senior center arts and wellness initiatives, library-hosted anti-isolation events, and arts or environmental organizations engaging underserved groups through community-focused programs. The grant amounts vary depending on the number of affiliate communities served and the scope of the proposed work. Applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits or tax-exempt entities such as government agencies, educational institutions, tribal organizations, or religious institutions. Fiscal sponsorship is permitted if a written agreement is in place. The application process is competitive and open to only one submission per organization per cycle. Applicants must choose between applying for this grant or the Regional Mental Health Grant, not both. For fiscal year 2026, the application is due March 27, 2026, and award notifications will be issued in May. No pre-application steps such as letters of intent or concept notes are required. The Foundation expects awarded programs to demonstrate measurable community connection and meaningful impact on local well-being. The Local Building Community Connections Grant is a tangible expression of how place-based philanthropy can catalyze neighborhood resilience and social wellness.