Southern Illinois
Youth Behavioral Health Grants and Partner Resources
Our Commitment to Systemic Change
The youth behavioral health crisis in Southern Illinois requires more than just temporary support—it demands systemic change. The St. Clare Foundation, rooted in the Felician Sisters tradition of service, acts as The Funder and The Catalyst for Transformation, empowering community organizations with the financial resources and collaborative structure necessary to implement lasting, community-wide solutions.
We are the trusted funder, convener and catalyst for improving youth and adolescent behavioral health by enabling early identification, effective intervention, and seamless integration of services across Southern Illinois through the funding that we provide to our partners.
Explore Behavioral Health Funding Opportunities
We offer three distinct grant types designed to support our partners at every stage of their impactful work. All grants are specifically directed toward programs serving youth behavioral health needs in Southern Illinois.
| Grant Type | Focus Area | Strategic Goal |
|---|---|---|
| Anchor Grants | Systemic change, long-term program infrastructure, and regional coordination. | To establish sustainable, proven models that transform the service ecosystem. |
| Innovation Grants | Pilot programs, new intervention models, and testing creative solutions. | To fund experimental programs that can be scaled into future Anchor Investments |
| Mini-Grants | Quick, specific, high-impact needs (e.g., training, resources, small equipment). | To remove immediate barriers and maintain program efficiency. |
Application Process & Criteria
Eligible applicants will have:
- Alignment with St. Clare Foundation’s Mission
- A focus on behavioral health prevention and care for individuals aged 5-18 years old in Marion, Jefferson and surrounding counties (Clinton, Washington, Fayette, Perry, Franklin, Wayne, and Clay)
- A Non-profit, tax-exempt classification in good standing with the IRS, and current tax filings
- Demonstrated collaboration with one or more community organizations on the grant proposal (favorable, but not required)
Reporting requirements will be required to track progress, measure impact, build partnerships and ensure compliance. These requirements will include:
- Monthly check-in calls
- Quarterly progress reporting
- Final reporting at end of grant period
Quick Links & Support:
Open House: Join us for an Open House on December 10, 2025 to learn more about the Foundation, available grants and our vision of a community with no unmet health and social needs.
Virtual Office Hours: Get real-time answers to your questions. Our weekly virtual office hours are available every Monday from 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM CST during the application window (Jan 5 - Jan 12, 2026), or by appointment by booking a slot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
What is the grant application deadline?
The annual grant application deadline is on the third Monday of January at 5:00 pm. For the 2026 grant cycle, the deadline is Monday, January 19, 2026, at 5:00 pm.
Who is eligible to be considered for a grant?
Non-profit, tax-exempt organizations operating in the St. Clare Foundation’s service area are welcome to apply for grant funding. This service area includes Marion County, Jefferson County, and surrounding counties (Clinton, Washington, Fayette, Perry, Franklin, Wayne, and Clay). Non-profit organizations applying must be in good standing with the IRS and have up-to-date tax filings with the IRS.
I am an individual seeking financial assistance. Am I eligible for a grant?
Unfortunately, St. Clare Foundation is unable to provide grant funding directly to individuals.
What happens if I miss the application deadline?
Unfortunately, the St. Clare Foundation does not accept late applications. Please consider applying again in next year’s cycle!
When will my organization hear about the status of our application?
All applicants will be contacted regarding a final decision on their application by March 1.
If my application is denied, can I apply again?
Absolutely! Applicants who are denied are welcome to apply again in the next grant cycle.
Who do I contact with additional questions?
Applicants should contact Clare Kessler with additional questions via email at ckessler@saintclarefoundation.org. Applicants are also encouraged to attend virtual office hours during the grant application period to ask questions and discuss their application.
What are the reporting requirements for grant awardees?
Grant awardees are subject to reporting requirements, including monthly check-calls, written quarterly reports, and a written final outcome and impact report. Please see the reporting requirements section for additional details.
Where do I submit my grant application?
Applications should be submitted electronically via the application link provided on our website during the grant application period. If you have any trouble with this link or need different accommodations, please reach out to Clare Kessler at ckessler@saintclarefoundation.org as soon as possible.
Key Dates & Deadlines:
January 2: Applications Open
Application Window January 19: Closes
March 1, 2026: Grant Recipients Announced
Ready to partner for systemic change in youth behavioral health?
The application window for the 2026 St. Clare Foundation youth behavioral health funding opportunities opens soon.
Prepare your proposal today.
