The
Rest & Joy Fund
The Rest & Joy fund was established to prioritize mental health and making rest & joy accessible and approachable for Black & Brown folks in DC, MD and VA. The Rest & Joy fund is a collaboration between The Mental Health Emergency Fund and Collective 365.
Mission
It is the mission of Collective 365 to normalize and de-stigmatize mental health, rest and joy within the Black & Brown communities and to help break down the resource barriers for accessing services and support for mental health, rest and joy.
Vision
Establish opportunities for rest and joy to be a right rather than a reward for Black & Brown communities.
The Why
Just as Collective 365 celebrates and invests in the work of Black and Brown communities, we must also actively invest and elevate the rest and joy of Black and Brown folks. The work cannot be done effectively and sustainably without rest.
The Rest & Joy Fund selection process operates on trust-based philanthropy, which means we trust applicants to use the money to do what they see best to achieve rest and joy.
The Fall 2024 application closed at 9am EST on September 28, 2024. Please click below to be notified when the next cycle opens.
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The Mental Health Emergency Fund Podcast
The Breakdown
Who we Fund
Individuals who are:
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at least 18 years old
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reside in Maryland, DC or Virginia
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Black or Brown
What we Fund
Individuals seeking funding for:
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mental health services (this may include co-pay/co-insurance, transportation to services, childcare to attend services. Services include but not limited to: telehealth or in person talk therapy, sound baths, Reiki, mindfulness retreats)
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rest (this may include paid leave from employment which the recipient uses funds to pay monthly expenses while they are away from work. We know most Black & Brown folks are not able to take extended paid leave from work, but this time is critical and a necessity for Black and Brown folks)
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joy (this may include trips, down payment for a home, car)
How it all works?
FAQ
If I join or donate can I still apply for a grant?
Yes. If you join the Collective and/or make a general donation, you may still apply for a grant. Members of the Collective are not eligible to vote in the same giving season they apply, but we believe in giving and getting.
Can I apply for a grant if I live outside the DMV area?
Grants are only awarded to applicants who primarily serve Black & Brown communities in the DMV (DC, MD, VA).
How are grants awarded?
Every member of the Collective is asked to contribute $100 or $50.
The member contributions are used to create grants. The number of members who make a contribution determines the grant amount awarded each year. Every member, regardless of contribution level, gets a vote at the Community Brunch. Throughout the "giving season", grant applicants will have an opportunity to share the issues and needs impacting their community. The Grants Committee will review grants applications and make selections.
Are grants only for non-profits / 501(c)(3) organizations
No. We encourage individuals, community initiatives, businesses to apply for grants. Organizations that have 501(c)(3) status are also eligible to apply.
Is there a minimum operating budget requirement for grant applicants?
No. We know that many funding sources require that you have money in order to get money. This often excludes many from receiving funds and the Collective seeks to remove that barrier.
I have more questions, but I do not see the answer. What should I do?
We want to answer your questions, please feel free to reach out to Fatima, the founder, via email at collective365info@gmail.com.
What if my idea is new, can I still apply?
FAQ
If I apply will I automatically be selected to receive funds?
In order to qualify, the applicant must pay an application fee (sliding scale: $10-20) and complete the application form. Applicants are selected by random drawing. Applicant should only apply once per grant cycle.
Why do I have to pay an application fee?
The application fee is used to support the current cycle of funding. We know the need is plenty and the application fee will expand the available funds for the current cycle.
What can I use the money for?
Anything that promotes your over well-being. Please see the examples listed above or contact us via email, collective365info@gmail.com, if you want to ask if something qualifies.
How does someone get the money?
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Direct payment to applicant via check
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Collective 365 makes payment (ideal for folks with concerns that the fund would impact their tax status. The applicant would provide an invoice)
If I apply and get funds, can I apply the next time?
No. We want to spread love to as many folks as possible.
If I am from DC, MD or VA, but do not live there now, can I still apply?
No. You must be a current resident to apply for funding.
Who determines who is selected to receive funds?
Recipients are selected through a random drawing. It was important to the Advisory Board that we not judge folks on how they rest and what brings them joy; therefore, our application is only 9 questions and takes less than 5 minutes to complete.
I have a question, who should I contact
Please send an email to collective365info@gmail.com and we will happily answer your questions.