Advancing Health and Equity in Monroe County—$180K+ in Grants Awarded

Five innovative projects selected to strengthen access, equity, and wellness across the region

At the Community Foundation of Monroe County, we believe that health is a community effort. That’s why we’re proud to announce more than $180,000 in Health Endowment Grants to support five outstanding local nonprofits working to strengthen well-being across Monroe County.

These grants—made possible through our Monroe Health Plan Endowment Fund—are focused on long-term impact. They fund projects that break down barriers, prioritize equity, and meet people where they are. From mental health access to water safety, these initiatives are shaping a healthier, more resilient future for our community.

“Each of these organizations is creating change that goes beyond the moment. They’re building systems of care, support, and opportunity—and we’re honored to be part of that work,” said Valerie Orr, CFMC Executive Director.

Here’s how this year’s Health Endowment grantees are making a difference:

• Airport Community Schools – $9,950
  We’re supporting the expansion of the Ruling Our eXperiences (ROX) program, which empowers middle school girls with leadership skills, mentorship, and emotional well-being tools. With our help, ROX will grow from serving 70 students to 110, giving more girls the tools they need to thrive.

• Call for Backup – $35,000
  First responders take care of us. This grant helps take care of them. Call for Backup will provide Mental Health First Aid training for 250 emergency personnel and advanced Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) for another 50—equipping them to handle crisis and support one another.

• Monroe Family YMCA – $25,000
  Every child deserves to feel safe and confident in the water. With this funding, the YMCA will launch a water safety and junior lifeguard training program for 150 at-risk youth—removing financial barriers and teaching lifesaving skills.

• Monroe County Intermediate School District (MCISD) – $85,568
  With our support, MCISD will launch Care Solace, a mental health navigation service connecting students, staff, and families with care providers. This program will serve more than 25,000 residents across every public and private school in the county—making it easier to access timely, appropriate mental health care.

• Monroe Puente – $25,000
  We’re proud to help Monroe Puente expand its Bilingual Community Health Worker Program. This initiative connects Spanish-speaking and immigrant families with culturally competent care—improving access to maternal health, chronic disease support, and essential social services.

A Community-Wide Effort

Our Health Endowment Grant program is rooted in partnership. We don’t just fund ideas—we invest in relationships, innovation, and the belief that lasting change happens when local voices lead the way.

We’ll be sharing updates as these projects unfold over the coming months.

Together, we’re building a healthier Monroe County—one partnership at a time.