Funding Awards for Second Grant Cycle in Inaugural Year
The Inclusa Foundation is proud to announce the award recipients of the second grant cycle within our inaugural year of grantmaking. Recognizing innovative projects dedicated to enhancing the lives of older adults and individuals with disabilities, these grants exemplify the Foundation’s commitment to fostering diverse and inclusive communities where everyone can thrive.
"This cycle of awards reflects the Inclusa Foundation's dedication to supporting organizations that address critical needs while fostering community connectedness and empowerment," said Candise Miller, Executive Director of the Inclusa Foundation. "Each of these projects embodies the guiding principles of Commonunity®, tackling systemic challenges with collaborative, forward-thinking solutions."
The Inclusa Foundation is awarding a total of $1,387,490 to the following outstanding initiatives. Each project is thoughtfully aligned with one or more Commonunity® component areas: Choice, Home, Contribution, Accessibility, and Belonging.
Award Recipients:
Aging and Disability Resource Center of Dunn County – To introduce ElliQ, an AI care companion, to combat loneliness and enhance seniors' well-being, demonstrating innovative approaches to aging-in-place.
ALAS (Alianza Latina Aplicando Soluciones) – To empower Spanish-speaking adults with developmental disabilities through a leadership institute, fostering advocacy and community participation.
Coalition of Wisconsin Aging Groups – To expand the Elder Financial Empowerment Project, with the goal to protect older adults from financial exploitation through education, outreach, and legal support.
Food for Health, Inc. – To deliver Medically Tailored Meals and health coaching to low-income older adults, a model showcasing the power of food as medicine.
Habitat for Humanity of Wisconsin River Area, Inc. – To expand its Aging in Place program with accessibility modifications and a new ramp rental service, ensuring safety and independence for seniors.
Journey21, Inc. – To support the Life Academy program, providing critical career readiness and independent living education for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
Portal, Inc. – To enhance pathways to competitive integrated employment for individuals with disabilities through skills training and employer partnerships.
The Bridge to Hope, Inc. – To launch a program promoting safe relationships for older adults, addressing vital issues of abuse prevention and community well-being.
State of Wisconsin Board on Aging and Long Term Care – To develop self-advocacy resources for assisted living residents, building community councils and fostering empowerment.
These projects highlight the Foundation’s commitment to the Commonunity® framework, addressing critical areas such as accessible housing, integrated employment, community connections, and fostering choice through tailored educational experiences. By supporting these initiatives, the Inclusa Foundation aims to inspire systemic change and create vibrant, inclusive experiences across Wisconsin’s Long-Term Serves and Supports (LTSS) ecosystem.
About the Inclusa Foundation
The Inclusa Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering diverse and inclusive communities for older adults and adults with disabilities. By funding transformative initiatives, the Foundation seeks to create meaningful systems change and empower individuals throughout Wisconsin.
For more information about the Inclusa Foundation, Commonunity®, and its grant programs, visit www.inclusafoundation.org.