Purpose
To announce the 2021-2 Veteran Suicide Grant Program and to solicit applications for grant funding to support efforts to prevent Veteran suicide.
Background
The Veterans Administration (VA) recently released its 2021 Veteran Suicide Report that covers data compiled for 2019. Nationally, it was the first glimmer of good news in many years. Nationwide, the number of Veteran suicides decreased by 399 in 2019 and the rate per 100,000 dropped 6.3%.
Unfortunately, the good news stops at the Arizona border:
- In Arizona both the total number of Veteran suicides and the rate per 100,000 increased
- Arizona moved from the 6th highest to the 5th highest state Veteran suicide rate
By any objective measure, this national tragedy continues at epidemic proportions in Arizona.
As a result, the SWVF will continue to embrace Veteran suicide as its signature issue.
Our original goal was to raise $100,000 to support established and effective efforts and programs within the state whose programs and operations include preventing Veteran suicide. To date, we have raised $22,875 and have awarded $18,100 in Suicide Prevention Grants. We will award another $4,000 through this grant offering.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the SWVF Veteran Suicide Prevention Grants, organizations must be IRS approved 501(c)(3) charitable non-profit organizations.
Additionally, they must:
- Be a legal entity in good standing in the state of Arizona for at least three years.
- Have established programs in place that are directly targeted to preventing Veteran suicide or assisting families who suffer a Veteran suicide.
- Be able to demonstrate the administration, participation, and results of its programs and operations.
Application
The application for the 2021-2 Veteran Suicide Grant Program is attached. It is also available on our website. Applications must arrive at SWVF by November 22, 2021 and contain all necessary documents and documentation. Submit applications to:
Southwest Veterans Foundation
Attn: Veteran Suicide Prevention Committee
3820 W Happy Valley Rd
# 141-455
Glendale, AZ 85310
Note to previous submitters:
- If you have already received two grants, you are not eligible for this grant offering.
- If you have received one grant, you are eligible to apply.
If you previously received one grant and intend to apply for this grant, you do not need to submit the full application. You must complete Sections 1,2,7, and 8 and include any additional material you want the grant selection committee to consider. All others must complete the full application.
Milestones
On/about Action
Oct 29 Announcement and application form released
Nov 22 Applications due (late applications will be held for the next cycle of awards)
Dec 6 Grant awards announced
TBD Public presentation of checks to grant recipients
Questions. Contact Tom Sheets, t.sheets@swvcc.org, 602.677.2961
