Blue Cross NC is making an intentional investment in building the capacity of organizations led by or serving historically underrepresented communities and people of color.
We are collaborating with nonprofits to make this happen.
Organizations that fully understand the needs of North Carolina's communities of color can make the most impact. When we focus on those whose need is greatest, we improve health care for everyone.
Part of our strategy is investing in historically under-resourced groups that have the knowledge and skills to best serve North Carolina's people and communities of color. By intentionally investing in organizations and communities that have been under-resourced, we support the health and well-being of all our communities. We hope to become a leader in empowering nonprofits to better fulfill their mission now and in the future.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC) exists to improve the health and well-being of our customers and communities – we won’t stop until health care is better for all.
2022-2023 Strengthen NC Cohort
El Centro Hispano
Empowers Latino families through education and leadership development.
Equity Before Birth
Works to improve health outcomes for Black birthing people and their infants by increasing access to critical services and support.
Eustress, Inc.
Raises awareness of the importance of mental health in the Black community allowing individuals to identify and overcome challenges to achieve a healthier and productive lifestyle.
H.E.A.R.T.S
Educates and equips young pregnant and parenting adolescents with the tools needed to become independent and self-sufficient.
LGBTQ Center of Durham
Supports LGBTQ+ people through services, programming, resources and support networks that center their wellbeing and allows them to thrive.
MAAME, Inc.
Empowers Black, Indigenous and other birthing people of color with resources, services and support for a holistic approach to maternal health and wellness.
NC Field
Works with migrant and seasonal farmworker youth and families utilizing grassroots organizing principles to teach leadership, promote education and facilitate opportunities.
Rural Opportunity Institute
Strives to end generational cycles of trauma and poverty by preventing adverse childhood experiences and toxic stress for communities in Edgecombe County.
Vecinos, Inc.
Provides culturally appropriate health and wellness services for the uninsured Latinx community.
Wounded Healers of North Carolina
Embraces and supports individuals reentering the community following incarceration through peer support and resources.
To achieve health equity, we must work to dismantle unjust systems and provide resources to people whom existing structures have failed to serve.
The Who
Each Strengthen NC organization:
- Primarily serves Black, American Indian, Hispanic and other people of color in North Carolina.
- Works to promote health equity in historically underserved communities.
- Works to address disparities in maternal health and/or behavioral health.
- Is a 501(c)(3) organization.
The What
Our program is co-designed with chosen non-profits to help them expand their reach. We offer funding, peer mentoring, network building, technical assistance, training and more.
Strengthen NC organizations will receive:
- Unrestricted funding.
We will invest up to $50,000 per year for two years in up to ten qualifying organizations. - Leveraged expertise.
Pro bono consulting, peer mentorship and workshops with internal and external experts. We will help your organization work through its unique challenges and develop the skills that you consider critical to success. - Increased visibility.
We will use our statewide reach to boost awareness of your organization throughout North Carolina. - A support network.
Through Strengthen NC’s cohort-based model, all organizations will work together and learn from each other.
Tell us what your organization needs. We will work together to make it happen.
The Why
Organizations that fully understand the needs of people and communities of color can make the most impact. Racism and underfunding often obstruct these groups’ efforts to develop their capabilities and expand their reach. At Blue Cross NC, we know that no community can be healthy while racism exists. We work to combat this and drive real change.
We see Strengthen NC as a partnership. When we provide financial assistance, time and resources to your organization, we learn from you. You are dialed into the communities you serve and know them best. Working with you keeps our company connected to our purpose and helps us advance true equity in North Carolina.
Learn More About Strengthen NC
Read our Program Overview and FAQs for more info about the program.
Stay In Touch
Our inaugural cohort is underway with their two-year program! Join our mailing list to stay up to date on current program news, including application dates and deadlines for our next cohort.
U38898, 11/21
Blue Connect