Inaugural Open Call Grant Cycle Funding Awards
The Inclusa Foundation is pleased to announce the recipients of its inaugural open call grant cycle. This marks a significant milestone in advancing its mission to support older adults and adults with disabilities. The Foundation aims to build diverse and inclusive communities where all individuals can live more connected lives through innovation, programs, and partnerships that positively impact overall health and well-being.
"We are thrilled to announce these inaugural grant recipients, each of whom represents the spirit of innovation and dedication to community well-being that the Inclusa Foundation stands for," said Candise Miller, Executive Director of the Inclusa Foundation. "These awards mark the beginning of a new chapter in our work to create meaningful systems change throughout Wisconsin. We are honored to partner with these outstanding organizations as they bring their visions to life."
The Inclusa Foundation is investing a total of $1,453,407 in this inaugural grant cycle to support impactful initiatives throughout the state of Wisconsin.
Award Recipients:
Adaptive Community Approach Program (ACAP) – To expand their Peer Mentor Training class to other regional organizations. As part of their Advocacy program, the training assists individual members in learning communication and leadership skills while making a positive impact.
AFAR – To increase opportunities for individuals with disabilities to be active, stay fit and play alongside their family and friends. Their Open Gym Program offers an inclusive, non-competitive environment where all abilities can play together, providing adaptive sports equipment and free access, removing barriers related to transportation and cost.
Amery Hospital and Clinic – To enhance their life enrichment program for long-term patients and their caregivers, through implementation of research-based therapies and activities, including resources from the Teepa Snow organization.
Aptiv, Inc – To create a comprehensive peer mentoring service for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, fostering community inclusion, independence, and productivity through the support of mentors with lived experience.
Disability Service Providers Network (DSPN) – To build a virtual training series for individuals who self-direct their services, providing participants with evidence-based tools for the recruitment and retention of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs).
Good News Project, Inc. – To enhance access to durable medical equipment (DME) for people in rural communities in central and northern Wisconsin through the implementation of a MobileHELP Truck.
Hadley – To expand resources for older adults in Wisconsin who are living with vision loss and blindness. Focusing efforts in areas where residences have less access to vision impairment services by creating new partnership with local ophthalmology professionals and assisting clients via workshops, discussion groups, and supports through their peer-matching program.
Kinnickinnic River Land Trust – To explore nature-based interventions for older adults, fostering social connectedness and improved mental health. In partnership with the University of Wisconsin–River Falls Social Work Department (UWRF), the program will work with aging and indigenous populations in St Croix and Pierce counties to understand overall concerns of social isolation and loneliness.
Living Our Visions, Inc. – To diversify the Transitions to Adulthood Program expanding supports for young adults with disabilities in Tribal and Latino communities in Wisconsin, aged 18-25. It aims to break down barriers and provide tailored support to ensure all individuals can make informed choices, achieve independence, and build a strong sense of belonging.
Opportunity Development Centers, Inc. – To establish a comprehensive peer mentoring program. By pairing individuals with disabilities (mentees) with trained peers who have similar experiences (mentors), the program aims to foster growth, empowerment and improved health outcomes for participants.
Red River Riders, Inc. – To expand services by using specialized equipment so that all riders can fully and safely participate in Red River Riders’ classes.
River Valley Trails, Inc. – To create new opportunities for individuals with mobility limitations by making outdoor spaces more accessible year-round using Action Trackchairs. The program will promote social inclusion and active participation, improving the participants’ quality of life.
Rise, Inc. – To formalize and expand their Enhanced Supported Decision-Making (ESDM) program, which will include mentoring, LifeCourse Connect resources, and Career Skills Training to better assist rural residents with disabilities in Wisconsin.
About the Inclusa Foundation
The Inclusa Foundation is committed to fostering inclusive and connected communities through strategic grantmaking. By supporting transformational initiatives dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with disabilities and older adults, the Foundation aims to enhance the lives of all Wisconsinites.
For more information about the Inclusa Foundation and its grant opportunities, please visit www.inclusafoundation.org.