This year, the REACH Healthcare Foundation is excited to announce annual awards of Wellness Grants to 41 nonprofit organizations across Kansas and Missouri totaling $194,364 to strengthen staff health, morale, and overall well-being.
Launched in 2023, the Wellness Grant opportunity was created in response to the growing pressures that workers in the nonprofit sector face, including staff retention challenges, burnout, funding cuts, and increased demand for services. The grant provides up to $5,000 to support activities that promote rest, connection, and care for staff and volunteers who work on the front lines of community health.
“Our partners continue to show up every day for their communities even during these challenging times when funding cuts are impacting their reach and their capacity,” said Carla Gibson, vice president of programs at REACH. “These Wellness Grants are a way for us to acknowledge that reality and support the individuals behind the mission by creating space for restoration, appreciation, and wellness.”
Organizations can use their Wellness Grants to support a range of staff-centered programs, including wellness retreats, mental health and mindfulness activities, team-building experiences, and employee appreciation events. Past recipients have used the funding to design activities that reflect the needs of their specific organization.
“Supporting staff well-being is so essential to sustaining the safety-net organizations that our communities rely upon,” said Brenda Sharpe, president and CEO of REACH. “When our partners’ staff and volunteers are supported, they are better positioned to continue delivering care and improving the health of our community.”
The 2025 Wellness Grant recipients represent a diverse group of nonprofit organizations working across health care, behavioral health, and social services. Each organization proposed wellness activities intended to strengthen their staff’s resilience and foster a healthier workplace environment.
“When it comes to being well and self-care, the old saying goes, ‘you cannot pour from an empty cup.’ At a time when Latino immigrant communities are experiencing significant trauma and loss, it is important for El Centro to stay charged and ready to help our community,” said Erica Andrade, president and CEO of El Centro. “We are excited for our wellness grant from REACH that will help us do just that in 2026. We believe staying well and self-care are ways to not only refill our cup, but also a way for us to take back our power.”
The following organizations were awarded Wellness Grants:
- Allen Regional Transportation
- Health Partnership Clinic
