The Rio Grande Valley Policy Initiative is providing $2.27 million to 11 organizations in the Rio Grande Valley and surrounding South Texas counties to engage in local policy work that advances mental health and well-being.
The initiative invests in organizations that advocate for their communities in ways that support mental health and well-being. It provides multiyear, flexible funding to local organizations to help community members learn about public issues, understand and navigate public processes, and cultivate community leadership or collaboration around shared issues.
“What’s exciting about this initiative is how it empowers communities in the Rio Grande Valley and South Texas to ensure that local policies reflect community needs,” says Jason Castillo, policy program specialist.
Ten of the 11 organizations receive a three-year grant award of $210,000, divided equally across the grant term. Organizations have access to additional capacity building support through the eleventh organization, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley’s Nonprofit Resource Center, who receives a $175,000 grant award.
“As Texas communities navigate an increasingly complex and uncertain landscape, strengthening policy engagement and advocacy capacity is essential,” says Dr. Octavio N. Martinez, Jr., executive director. “The Rio Grande Valley Policy Initiative will support forward-looking strategies that empower local leaders to expand community participation in policymaking that impacts mental health and well-being.”
The 11 new grantee partners are:
- AltaCair Foundation (Edinburg)
- ARISE Adelante (Alamo)
- Border Workers United (Alamo)
- Easterseals Rio Grande Valley (McAllen)
- Hidalgo County (Edinburg)
- La Union del Pueblo Entero (LUPE) (San Juan)
- Prosumers International (San Antonio)
- Rural Economic Assistance League, Inc. (Alice)
- San Antonio Clubhouse (San Antonio)
- Valley Interfaith Leadership and Education Council (Mercedes)
- The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Foundation (McAllen)
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