These are unpredictable times, not just for nonprofit organizations, but for the individuals and families they serve. In moments like these, I am reminded of the true essence of philanthropy: advancing the well-being of others through charitable giving, advocacy, and strategic investments that prioritize community needs over individual agendas.
Over the past several weeks, I have engaged with HealthPath staff and Board members, fellow health funders, and some of philanthropy’s most trusted organizations and leaders. In times of uncertainty, we do more than navigate challenges. We come together to support, uplift, and stand in solidarity with one another, ensuring that all Ohioans have the opportunity to achieve their fullest health potential.
HealthPath remains committed to this spirit of resilience and collective action. As a trusted funder and intermediary across the state, we recognize our responsibility to leverage our resources and voice in service to the communities we support. While we don’t have all the answers, we have taken two significant steps to provide meaningful support during these unpredictable times.
First, to commemorate our 25th anniversary, HealthPath recently launched a special Community Connections funding opportunity, offering ten $25,000 general operating support grants to nonprofits across our 36-county region working to advance health equity in one of our three areas of impact. Previously, Community Connections grants were limited to $8,000. This shift toward larger grants is designed to build long-term capacity and drive systems change.
Second, in its February meeting, HealthPath’s Board of Directors voted to update its spending policy. Instead of a fixed formula dictating annual spending, our new policy allows the Board to review and adjust funding allocations each year, ensuring we have the flexibility to meet evolving community and nonprofit needs while maintaining long-term financial sustainability. This proactive approach strengthens our commitment to maximizing impact across Ohio.
We know there is still more work to do. As we continue shaping our response, we welcome insights and ideas from the nonprofit community about what would be most helpful and meaningful in this moment. Your voices are critical in ensuring that our resources are directed where they are needed most.
We recognize that these are challenging times, not just for philanthropy, but for the individuals and families we serve. Yet, through every challenge, Ohio communities have shown unwavering resilience, inclusion, and shared progress.
Over the next several months, HealthPath will embark on a strategic planning journey guided by community insights and data. As we move forward, we remain committed to our mission and the values that make Ohio a place of connection, compassion, and progress. We will keep the community informed and engaged as we refine our strategy.
In Solidarity,
Kiana R. Trabue
President