Poughkeepsie … Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino has announced grants totaling $47,299 have been awarded through the first round of the County’s 2024 Youth Wellness Supports Microgrants program. These grants will support three local organizations that build strong well-being and deter young people from developing substance use issues and other destructive behaviors, setting them up for successful, healthy futures as adults.
County Executive Sue Serino said, “Every child in Dutchess County deserves to have a bright future, and we’re fortunate to have many community partners who help guide them toward success. These grants will fund important programs that will foster productive behaviors in our children, steering them away from dangerous activities. We’re proud to collaborate with these organizations, as we all work together to build a strong future for Dutchess County.”
Projects funded through the 2024 Youth Wellness Supports Microgrants program include:
Brain and Body Coalition, Poughkeepsie, $19,000 – Create and distribute 500 coping skill toolkits and host a minimum of four workshops throughout Dutchess County – in both the urban and rural areas – promoting healthy coping mechanisms and essential resources to reduce mental health disparities and stigma.
Northeast Community Center, Millerton, $9,299 – Create research-based educational materials that provide guidance for clients and potential clients on how to safely navigate the online world with their children.
Positive About Possibilities, City of Poughkeepsie $19,000 – Purchase comprehensive training resources for the Recovery Coach Academy and Ethical Considerations program; create and distribute educational and promotional materials; and produce a video to increase awareness about the risks of fentanyl.
Announced in July, the Youth Wellness Supports Microgrants program seeks proposals from nonprofit organizations, municipalities and grassroots organizations that offer specific programs benefiting youth, with evidence-based wellness activities that help reduce the risk of substance use for children and young adults under age 25.
The 2024 Youth Wellness Support Microgrant Program focuses on several key areas targeting preventing young people from developing substance use disorders and safeguarding their mental wellness:
1. Prevention
2. Public Awareness Activities
3. Social Media Awareness and Safe Use
Grant proposals should reflect one or more of these focus areas. Creative ideas that have demonstrated success are encouraged. Grant applications can be submitted online via Dutchess County’s online grant portal and will be accepted on a rolling basis while funds are available.
Grant awards can range from $5,000 to $19,000 per recipient. The Youth Wellness Support Microgrant program is funded with $200,000 of opioid settlement funds obtained as a result of litigation against the pharmaceutical industry.
Youth Wellness Support Microgrant Program instructions and guidance are available online; applicants must ensure compliance with Dutchess County’s Procurement Policies and Procedures. For more information on the grant program and application process, please contact Sandi Pierson at spierson@dutchessny.gov.
