Nine Northwest ministries have been recognized for their exceptional work and contribution to the community by Versacare Foundation, an independent foundation serving Seventh-day Adventist ministries and humanitarian causes in North America. This year, Versacare awarded 133 grants amounting to $2,493,872 in total, with nine of them awarded to northwest ministries amounting to $160,000. These grants will enable these organizations to further their impactful work in their respective communities.
Here is a closer look at the ministries and the initiatives they will be supporting with the grants.
Ministry Grants
Forks Adventist Church: $20,000
The funds awarded to Forks Adventist Church, in Forks, Washington, will be used to expand Creation Park, a community space inspired by church and community members. The park offers a serene environment near a stream where families and groups of friends can gather for various activities. With the grant, the church aims to enhance the park by planting berry bushes and an orchard, constructing shadow boxes and building a restroom facility.
LifeBridge Church: $10,000
LifeBridge Church, in University Place, Washington, will utilize their grant to organize multiple free health clinics throughout the year. These clinics cater to a diverse range of individuals, including immigrants, people experiencing homelessness and those living in poverty. The clinic does not require any identification or proof of insurance, ensuring that everyone in need can receive medical assistance. LifeBridge's volunteerism and community service have inspired many and have brought people closer together. The grant will help sustain and expand these vital community health services.
North Pacific Union — CARE Project: $40,000
North Pacific Union's CARE Project, in collaboration with Walla Walla University's Center for Humanitarian Engagement, aims to engage university students in community development projects. The grant will support a pilot program that places students in various community engagement initiatives within the NPUC territory. This program emphasizes leadership development, mentorship and experiential service-learning opportunities, focusing on sustainable community impact and development.
North Pacific Union — Counseltation Project: $30,000
The Counseltation Project, in partnership with NPUC and Counseltation Services (a non-profit educational organization that seeks to combine counseling services through a consultant resource), seeks to address the increased behavioral issues within classrooms in the NPUC territory. The grant will enable the provision of online social-emotional literacy and virtual mental health counseling services to schools in Alaska, Idaho and Montana conferences. These services aim to support students' well-being and provide necessary resources for educators and parents.
Port Angeles Adventist Church: $30,000
Port Angeles Adventist Church, in Port Angeles, Washington, plans to complete the construction of the Port Angeles HotShowers trailer, an initiative that complements the HotMeals trailer previously funded. The shower trailer will provide a place for homeless individuals to take hot showers, use the facilities and access clean clothing. With durable and hygienic materials, the trailer will ensure a comfortable and dignified experience for those in need.
Walla Walla University — Blue Mountain Volunteer Corps: $30,000
Blue Mountain Volunteer Corps focuses on fostering volunteerism and civic engagement in the Walla Walla Valley. The grant will allow BMVC to hire a part-time administrator, relieving the burden on university staff and students. The administrator will oversee the program's development, best practice seminars for volunteer recruitment, appreciation and retention, and training agency volunteers. The goal is to strengthen the volunteer infrastructure and better connect community members with suitable opportunities.
Education Grants
In addition to the ministry grants, Versacare also awarded STEM grants to three Adventist schools in the region:
- Amazing Grace Academy, in Palmer, Alaska: $10,000
- Cypress Adventist School, in Lynnwood, Washington: $5,000
- Sky Valley Adventist School, in Monroe, Washington: $5,000
These schools will utilize the grants to enhance their STEM programs and provide valuable resources for students' continued education.
About Versacare
Since 1990, Versacare has been funding Adventist ministries and select humanitarian organizations in North America, with 1,734 grants totaling $33,644,925. To apply for Versacare's grants, applications are available from July 1 through December 31 annually, and eligible non-profit, tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations may apply.
