Better Together Upcoming Opportunities, Events, & Resources Digest

  • Week of July 24, 2026

    Opportunity to Connect with CCPS Staff

    What: Next month, Caroline County Public Schools will welcome all 1,100 members of the Caroline Family back for the 2026–2027 school year. As part of our opening day, we will host a Wellness Resource Fair designed to support the many dimensions of employee well‑being: physical, financial, emotional, nutritional, and more. It’s a joyful way to start the year together and connect our staff with partners who care about their health and success.

    When: Wednesday, August 19, 2026, 8:00 – 9:30 am

    Where: Colonel Richardson Middle School, 25320 Richardson Road, Federalsburg

    If you are interested in participating please reach out to Sandi Barry, Communications Officer, Caroline County Public Schools 410-479-1460

    H.R.1 DHS Update

    On July 1, 2026, Maryland officially restarted its three-year clock for SNAP work requirements, creating an important opportunity for SNAP customers who may have previously lost their benefits, especially those who lost benefits earlier this year because of the expanded work requirements in H.R. 1. These individuals, known as “Time-Limited Participants” (formerly ABAWDs), can now re-apply to receive a brand-new, three-month period of food assistance as long as they qualify for SNAP.

    Please encourage community members to check their status and re-apply for SNAP online at benefits.maryland.gov or contact their local department of social services for more information. Customers can learn more about the impacts of the expanded federal work requirements on DHS’ H.R. 1 website. Your outreach can help neighbors leverage this fresh start to prevent food insecurity and support household stability.

    For more information click here.

    Leading Change Workshop

    What: Leading change in public health organizations is no longer just a leadership skill — it’s an essential capability. Public health operates in a fast-changing environment where new challenges emerge, community needs shift, and evidence-based practices continue to evolve. Leaders must be able to navigate uncertainty, inspire teams, and guide organizations through change to remain resilient, responsive, and ready for what’s next.

    If you’re ready to build these skills and lead with confidence in both clinical and non-clinical public health roles, ASTHO’s Leading Change Workshops are designed for you. Through practical strategies, real-world examples, and actionable tools, you’ll gain insights you can apply immediately to drive meaningful change in your organization.

    When: October 6 – 7, in-person, full day

    Where: ASTHO HQ, Arlington, VA

    Learn More and Register

    Inaugural Eastern Shore Fatherhood and Reentry Conference

    What: The Inaugural Eastern Shore Fatherhood and Reentry Conference will be held at the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Intergenerational Center, Cambridge, Maryland on Saturday, October 17, 2026. The Conference Reception will be at The Packing House, Cambridge, MD on the evening of Friday, October 16, 2026.

    This one day conference will bring together educators, facilitators, service providers, and elected leaders who are committed to advancing fatherhood programming and reentry services.

    When: Saturday, October 17, 2026 (with Reception on Friday, October 16th)

    Where: Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Intergenerational Center, Cambridge, Maryland

    Learn More and Register.

    Eastern Shore Virtual Produce Rx Networking & Info Session

    What: As the Maryland Department of Health’s Produce Prescription (Produce Rx) Request for Applications (RFA) is now open, the Mid-Shore Health Improvement Coalition, in partnership with the Maryland Department of Health, invites you to join us for a virtual info session for Eastern Shore organizations interested in applying for Produce Rx funding.

    As part of this funding opportunity, organizations are required to apply as coalitions. This event will provide an opportunity for organizations interested in serving ENOUGH communities on the Eastern Shore to learn more about the application process and connect with each other.

    When: Wednesday, July 29th, Noon – 1:00 pm

    Where: Online via Google Meet

    Register now. View a flyer for the event here.

    CHW Appreciation Luncheon

    What: Join us as we recognize the incredible dedication, compassion, and impact of Community Health Workers across the Eastern Shore of Maryland during our CHW Appreciation Luncheon! 

    When: Wednesday, August 26th, Noon; Doors open at 11:30 am.

    Where: Grove Intergenerational Center, 108 Chesapeake St., Cambridge, MD 21613

    For more information, contact Lisa Widmaier at lwidmaier@esahec.org.

    Maryland Project Greenspace

    Deadline: September 1st at 3:00 pm

    • Description: The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is now accepting applications for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2028 Greenspace Equity Program grant round. This is a competitive grant program and only proposals that meet program requirements submitted by eligible applicants may be considered for funding.

      A complete Greenspace Equity Program FY 2028 Application and Project Agreement with all the necessary accompanying documents must be mailed to ​​laplocalgrants.dnr@maryland.gov

    ​Please be advised that incomplete or late applications may not be considered for funding.

    Questions about this grant opportunity may be directed to: Stephanie Benavides at ​stephanie.benavides1@maryland.gov or 443-510-4572.​​​

    Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day Mini-Grant Application 2026

    Deadline: September 4th at 11:59 pm PT

    • Description: Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day honors the living legacy of civil rights activist Ruby Bridges. Every November 14th, we celebrate Ruby’s courageous and historic act by encouraging students to walk to school and engaging in a day of dialogue about activism, anti-racism, and anti-bullying. The goal is to inspire kids to make positive changes in their school and community.

      Submissions are due by Friday, September 4, 2026 at 11:59 Pacific Time. Grants will be awarded by Friday, October 2, 2026. You may request a grant in amount of $500 or $1000. Award amounts will be determined based on the number of students reached.
    • Learn More. Apply now.

    Clif Family Foundation Open Call Grant

    Deadline: August 3rd

    • Description: Supports general operating costs for organizations that align with the foundation’s mission to transform food systems, revitalize the environment, and enhance community health. Typical grants range from $5,000 – $50,000 and last for one year.
    • Eligibility: 501(c)3 organization or entity fiscally sponsored by a 501(c)3 organization
    • Learn More and Apply

    Maryland Affordable Housing Trust Competitive Grant Deadline

    Deadline: September 10th

    • Description: MOOR is pleased to announce our 2027 Opioid Restitution Fund Grant Program! This is a competitive opportunity through which eligible organizations will be able to apply for up to $1,000,000 to support efforts to address the harms of the opioid and overdose crisis.
    • Eligibility:  Non-profits providing non-billable services, Non-profits providing billable services to disproportionately impacted populations, Local governments not party to Maryland’s opioid settlement
    • Learn More and Apply

    2027 Opioid Restitution Fund Grant Program

    Deadline: September 15th

    • Description: The Maryland Affordable Housing Trust promotes affordable housing for households earning less than 50% of area or Statewide median income by: (1) Funding capital costs of rental and ownership housing; (2) Providing financial assistance for nonprofit-developer capacity building; (3) Funding supportive services for occupants of affordable housing; and (4) Funding operating expenses of affordable housing developments. To receive the Round 53 (SFY27) application package, including program guidelines, please send a request to MAHT.DHCD@maryland.gov.
    • Eligibility: Nonprofit organizations, Public housing authorities, Government agencies, Profit-motivated entities
    • Learn More and Apply

  • Week of July 17, 2026

    Maryland Special Education Family Engagement Grant SFY 2027

    Deadline: July 26th

    • Description: This grant opportunity is designed to equip families, educators, and Local Family Support Specialists (LFSS) with shared training, aligned tools, and coordinated support structures that promote positive student outcomes. The initiative emphasizes a joint approach – parent and educators learning together – to build trust, reduce disputes, and ensure that young learners with disabilities are supported through cohesive, research-based strategies.
    • Eligibility:
      Institutes of higher education (IHEs), nonprofit organizations, organizations who specialize in training and conflict
    • Learn More and Apply

    Meyer Foundation Rapid Response Grant

    Deadline: August 3, September 1

    • Description: With our commitment at the intersection of racial justice and systems change, these up-to two-time grants of $10,000, $20,000, or $50,000 will continue to support movement building, mobilization, and power building around causes or issues that promote racial justice through advocacy, organizing, and/or coalition building.
    • Eligibility: 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations
    • Learn More and Apply

    Maryland DHCD Small Business Lending Program

    Opens: August 17th

    • Description: DHCD announced The Small Business Lending Program will offer four revamped loan products: Competitive small business loans of up to $2 million with a fixed 4% interest rate, small business companion loans of up to $5 million with a 4% interest (minimum 1:1 match), owner-occupied real estate acquisition, construction, or renovation loans of up to $5 million with a 4% fixed interest rate (minimum 1:1 match), and loans provided to CDFIs at a 1% interest rate. Loan applications will be scored and ranked by factoring in community impact, financial need, viability, and readiness.
    • Eligibility: small businesses, small business partners, CDFIs
    • Learn More and Apply

    Henry E. Niles Foundation Grant Opportunity

    Opens: August 17th

    • Description: The Henry E. Niles Foundation is dedicated to nurturing and uplifting people in need worldwide. Their mission is to partner with US-based nonprofits to support humanitarian efforts, including faith-based initiatives, that strengthen education—particularly special education and literacy—combat economic hardships through self-help opportunities, and enhance global public health and sanitation, providing grants that range from $2,000 to $50,000.
    • Eligibility: 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations
    • Learn More and Apply

  • Week of July 3, 2026

    Applications Open: Rural Readiness Program Cohort 2026

    The Rural Readiness Program is seeking applicants for its 2026 cohort. This initiative supports community-based leaders and organizations working to advance place-based economic development and build local capacity across rural Maryland.

    Program Timeline
    Application Deadline:     August 1, 2026
    Cohort Training: 6–8 sessions between September and December 2026
    Project Completion Period: Fiscal Year 2028 (July 2027–June 2028)

    Letter of Interest and Resume must be emailed to rmc.mda@maryland.gov. For more information click here. 

    AHEC Webinar

    What: We are excited to invite you to an inspiring and empowering webinar created especially for Community Health Workers! The Heart of a CHW: Leading with Purpose, Resilience, and Impact with Dr. Lynda Charles. This is a wonderful opportunity to recharge, reflect, and grow together as a CHW community. 

    During this webinar, you will learn about:

    • Strengthening resilience while serving others
    • Preventing burnout through intentional personal growth
    • Reconnecting with purpose in your work
    • Simple leadership principles you can apply daily

    When: July 9th, 10:30 am – 11:30 am

    Where: Online

    Register now

    Maryland Department of Health’s Food is Medicine Program: Produce Rx

    What: The Maryland Department of Health has announced the release of the Produce Prescription (Produce Rx) Request For Applications (RFA). Applications will be due August 17. Applications are open to coalitions of organizations serving ENOUGH communities. 

    A Produce Prescription (PRx) is a medical treatment or preventative service for eligible patients due to diet-related health risks or conditions, food insecurity, or other documented challenges in access to nutritious foods, and are referred by a healthcare provider or health insurance plan.

    An informational webinar on the RFA will take place on Monday, June 29, from 3-4pm. The webinar will be recorded and posted on the website. Please see the website for Google Meet instructions as well as RFA application instructions and submission details. 

    When: Monday, June 29, from 3 – 4 pm.

    Where: Online via Google Meet

    How to Join: See the website for details.

    Please contact mdh.ProduceRx@maryland.gov with any questions.

    FY 2027 Next Generation Scholars Grant

    Deadline: July 16th

    • Description: The Next Generation Scholars of Maryland (NGS) Program is a college access program established by the Maryland General Assembly in 2016 that supports low-income students in high poverty school systems by providing access to postsecondary educational opportunities. NGS programs provide a cohort-based model of support, mentoring, and college guidance for first generation students. Cohorts are identified as early as 7th grade and receive support through high school graduation and into college.
    • Eligibility:
      This Grant funding is available to non-profit organizations supporting grades 7-12 students in one or more of the following school systems: Allegany County, Baltimore City, Caroline County, Dorchester County, Kent County, Prince George’s County, Somerset County, Wicomico County
    • View Further Information

    Maryland Special Education Family Engagement Grant SFY 2027

    Deadline: July 26th

    • Description: This grant opportunity is designed to equip families, educators, and Local Family Support Specialists (LFSS) with shared training, aligned tools, and coordinated support structures that promote positive student outcomes. The initiative emphasizes a joint approach – parent and educators learning together – to build trust, reduce disputes, and ensure that young learners with disabilities are supported through cohesive, research-based strategies.
    • Eligibility: Institutes of higher education (IHEs), nonprofit organizations, organizations who specialize in training and conflict
    • Learn More and Apply

  • Week of June 26, 2026

    Note: Due to a technical error, this digest was not delivered as expected on June 26th. We apologize for the delay and any inconvenience this may have caused.

    Career and Technical Education (CTE) Career Cluster and Program Affiliate Grant

    Deadline: July 30th

    • Description: The Career and Technical Education (CTE) Career Cluster and Program Affiliate Grant supports the development, implementation, and expansion of CTE programs in Maryland. Grant funds support affiliate partners that work with MSDE to provide professional learning, develop content and curriculum resources, support related Career and Technical Student Organizations, convene Statewide Program Advisory Committees, offer continuing professional development credits, and support articulated or transcripted college credit for CTE students.
    • Eligibility:
      Two- and four-year colleges and universities, community-based organizations, and non-profit organizations
    • Learn More and Apply

    Edward J. Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant

    Deadline: July 31st

    • Description: Byrne Justice Assistance Grants support a broad range of state and local criminal justice initiatives critical to Maryland’s ultimate goal of safe communities. Funds are intended to reduce existing gaps in service that impact violent crime, crime victims, enforcement, prosecution, adjudication, detention, and rehabilitation.
    • Eligibility: Nonprofit organizations, faith-based organizations
    • Learn More and Apply

    HUD Youth Homelessness NOFO for FY2024 and FY2025

    Deadline: August 10th

    • Description: HUD will make awards to selected communities to support them in establishing and implementing a response system for youth homelessness or for improving their existing response system. HUD will select approximately 49 communities for YHSI grants. Under the YHDP, HUD will provide funding to communities to implement housing and supportive services projects. HUD anticipates selecting between 26 and 50 communities, with a priority for communities with substantial rural populations in up to sixteen locations. Separate from this NOFO, technical assistance will be available to assist selected communities implement and improve their YHSI and YHDP projects. HUD expects communities to fully participate in any evaluation activities conducted by HUD beginning no earlier than the award announcement. See Section III for additional information about this NOFO.
    • Eligibility: County, State, City, Special District, and Tribal governments; Public and State controlled institutions of higher education; Native American tribal organizations; Nonprofit organizations
    • Learn More and Apply

    Reminder: Executive Director Recruitment Announcement HSC

    Deadline: 4:00 pm on June 29th

    The Executive Committee of the Caroline Human Services Council (HSC) is pleased to announce that recruitment has been established for the position of Executive Director.

    The Executive Director serves as the liaison between the Caroline Human Services Council Board of Directors, the Governor’s Office for Children, community partners, funders, and stakeholders. The position plays a critical role in advancing the Council’s mission of improving outcomes for children, youth, families, and communities throughout Caroline County.

    The Executive Committee will oversee a comprehensive recruitment process to identify a qualified candidate with demonstrated leadership experience, strong organizational and fiscal management skills, and a commitment to collaborative community engagement. Interested applicants are encouraged to review the position announcement and application requirements. Additional information regarding the recruitment process, position qualifications, and application procedures will be made available through the Caroline Human Services Council.

    The Executive Committee appreciates the continued support of community partners and stakeholders throughout this transition and remains committed to ensuring strong leadership for the organization and the residents it serves.

  • Week of June 19, 2026

    Job Opening: Executive Director Recruitment Announcement HSC

    The Executive Committee of the Caroline Human Services Council (HSC) is pleased to announce that recruitment has been established for the position of Executive Director.

    The Executive Director serves as the liaison between the Caroline Human Services Council Board of Directors, the Governor’s Office for Children, community partners, funders, and stakeholders. The position plays a critical role in advancing the Council’s mission of improving outcomes for children, youth, families, and communities throughout Caroline County.

    The Executive Committee will oversee a comprehensive recruitment process to identify a qualified candidate with demonstrated leadership experience, strong organizational and fiscal management skills, and a commitment to collaborative community engagement. Interested applicants are encouraged to review the position announcement and application requirements. Additional information regarding the recruitment process, position qualifications, and application procedures will be made available through the Caroline Human Services Council.

    The Executive Committee appreciates the continued support of community partners and stakeholders throughout this transition and remains committed to ensuring strong leadership for the organization and the residents it serves.

    Make an Impact in Minutes!

    Please take a moment to complete the RMC survey. This information will assist the Rural Maryland Council in directing financial and technical assistance support to rural communities like Caroline, including toward the issues and concerns that Caroline Better Together is collectively working to impact.

    The Rural Maryland Council is asking residents, business owners, and community leaders to share their experiences in a quick 10-minute survey. Your input will guide legislative advocacy, strengthen program priorities, and inform future funding decisions for the Rural Readiness Program and two grant programs—the Maryland Agricultural Education and Rural Development Assistance Fund (MAERDAF) and the Rural Maryland Prosperity Investment Fund (RMPIF).

    Why Your Voice Matters

    • Rural communities face unique challenges
    • Your lived experience provides valuable insight
    • RMC uses your input to create change

    What Your Feedback Supports

    • Local economic development
    • Rural health and wellness
    • Agriculture and natural resources
    • Broadband & infrastructure investments
    • Small business and workforce development

    Take the survey here.

    Rural Assembly Everywhere

    What: Rural Assembly Everywhere connects community members, advocates, and allies across the U.S. in shared conversations and a celebration of the places we call home.

    Rural Assembly Everywhere, our national broadcast, will go live on July 23, 2026.

    This free virtual gathering welcomes rural leaders, community members, advocates, and allies. It is a space to imagine new ways of expanding opportunity, share resources, and build a more connected, thriving rural America.

    The broadcast will feature conversations with leading voices in rural life and culture, along with spotlights on inspiring communities across the country. Throughout the event, you’ll be able to participate in a live chat—connecting with neighbors, friends, and fellow community members in real time as the conversations unfold.

    Thirty communities will host gatherings locally; stay tuned to hear if there’s an Everywhere gathering in your area.

    When: 1pm on Thursday, July 23rd

    Where: Online—Attend from anywhere!

    Learn More and Register or visit https://ruralassembly.org/everywhere/.

    Opine & Dine-MD Human Trafficking Task Force Event

    What: The Maryland Human Trafficking Task Force’s Public Awareness Subcommittee is excited to bring you Opine & Dine this summer! This is a free 14-session virtual panel series designed for parents, caregivers, educators, and community members to be equipped to keep our kids and our communities safer.

    Every Tuesday evening from June 16 through September 15, 6:00–7:30 PM, we’re bringing Maryland’s top experts together to talk about the things that matter most: human trafficking, grooming, exploitation, crisis response, legal protections, the dark web, AI, and the resources available right here in Maryland to combat these crimes.

    Every session includes 30 minutes of live Q&A. Every session is recorded and uploaded to our YouTube channel — free, forever!

    Registration is free. All sessions are virtual.

    When: Tuesdays through September 15, 6:00pm-7:30pm

    Where: Online

    Register now for the collection: MDHTTF OPINE & DINE Summer 2026 Series.

    Bridging Communities Nonprofit Conference Registration is Open

    What: Bridging Communities is a unique gathering of nonprofit organizations and government officials from across the state with the goal of strengthening nonprofit-government partnerships and increasing awareness of state resources for nonprofits. This year’s conference is being held in partnership with Maryland Nonprofits and Coppin State University’s Nonprofit Leadership Program.

    The conference will include keynote remarks from Comptroller Lierman; a plenary panel featuring subject matter experts on fundraising, federal government headwinds, and state programs; and a series of breakout sessions with state officials on topics ranging from state grants to nonprofit compliance rules to community development and wealth building programs. The conference will also offer valuable networking opportunities with members of the Comptroller’s team, Moore-Miller Administration, Maryland General Assembly, and partners and colleagues from across the state.

    When: 8:00am – 1pm, Tuesday June 30th

    Where: J Millard Tawes Center, Coppin State University, Baltimore

    Learn More and Register

    Applications Open: Rural Readiness Program Cohort 2026

    Deadline: August 1st

    • Description: The Rural Readiness Program is seeking applicants for its 2026 cohort. This initiative supports community-based leaders and organizations working to advance place-based economic development and build local capacity across rural Maryland.

      Program Goals
      • Promote economic diversification and growth in rural communities
      • Strengthen community organizations and leadership capacity
      • Support innovative, community-driven projects
      • Foster partnerships among local stakeholders, businesses, and government agencies

      Cohort Training
      • 6–8 sessions between September and December 2026

      Project Completion Period
      • Fiscal Year 2028 (July 2027–June 2028)
    • Eligibility:
      Individuals who live or work in one of Maryland’s designated rural areas and represent:
      • Community-based nonprofit organizations
      • Local government entities
      • Tribal groups
      • Other community organizations serving rural Maryland

      What We’re Looking For
      Projects and programs that directly support:
      • Place-based economic development
      • Community capacity building
      • Leadership development
      • Organizational strengthening
      • Sustainable rural community growth

      Preference will be given to applicants demonstrating collaboration with local businesses, educational institutions, and community partners.
    • How to Apply

    To learn more about the Rural Readiness program, contact 410-841-5772 or rmc.mda@maryland.gov.

    Maryland Affordable Housing Trust

    Deadline: July 10th

    • Description: The Maryland Affordable Housing Trust promotes affordable housing for households earning less than 50% of area or Statewide median income by: Funding capital costs of rental and ownership housing; Providing financial assistance for nonprofit-developer capacity building; Funding supportive services for occupants of affordable housing; and Funding operating expenses of affordable housing developments.
    • Eligibility: Nonprofit organizations, Public housing authorities, Government agencies, Profit-motivated entities
    • Learn More and Apply

    To learn more about the Rural Readiness program, contact 410-841-5772 or rmc.mda@maryland.gov.

    TogetherMD SFY 2027

    Deadline: June 26th

    • Description: The TogetherMD Grant program (formerly Maryland Elevates) is designed to enhance and sharpen the State’s steadfast focus on narrowing gaps for infants and toddlers, children, and youth with disabilities and their families in a comprehensive system of early intervention and special education services, birth through age 21. With heightened emphasis on high-leverage strategies and evidence-based practices necessary to transform early intervention and special education, TogetherMD targets disparities impacting children and families across a range of priority needs.
    • Eligibility: Non-profit organizations, community-based partners, and Institutions of Higher Education
    • Learn More and Apply

    State Revitalization Programs

    Applications Open: June 22nd — Deadline: July 6th

    • Description: DHCD’s State Revitalization Programs (SRP) offer a range of funding to further the revitalization goals of communities across Maryland. The funding programs are primarily used to support expenses associated with capital projects. Funding programs include: Community Legacy, Maryland Facade Improvement Program, Strategic Demolition Fund, Baltimore Regional Neighborhood Initiative, Baltimore Vacants Reinvestment Initiative, the National Capital Strategic Economic Development Program, and the Seed Community Development Anchor Institution Program.
    • Eligibility: Varies by grant but largely encompasses community development corporations.
    • Learn More and Apply

    U.S. HHS Promise Neighborhoods Grant

    Deadline: August 6th

    • Description: The purpose of the Promise Neighborhoods program is to significantly improve the academic and developmental outcomes of children and youth living in the most distressed communities of the United States, including ensuring school readiness, high school graduation, and access to a community-based continuum of high-quality services.

      The program serves neighborhoods with high concentrations of individuals with low incomes; multiple signs of distress, which may include high rates of poverty, childhood obesity, academic challenges, and juvenile delinquency, adjudication, or incarceration; and adverse childhood experiences; and also serves schools implementing comprehensive support and improvement activities or targeted support and improvement activities
    • Eligibility: An institution of higher education, an Indian Tribe or Tribal organization, or nonprofit entities working in formal partnership with an LEA, IHE, the office of a chief elected official of a unit of local government, or an Indian Tribe or Tribal organization.
    • Apply Here

  • Week of June 5, 2026

    Upcoming Changes to Medicaid

    Starting January 1, 2027, you might have to complete new federal work requirements and renew your Medicaid more often.

    Most adults will be exempt, but check in with us to find out if you’ll be affected!

    These new federal requirements may not apply to you if you:

    • Are in school, job training, or a work program
    • Are pregnant or a parent or caregiver of young children
    • Have a disability or are a caregiver for someone with a disability
    • Have a long-term health condition

    Make sure your contact info is current so that you can receive important information on any changes. Maryland wants you to stay covered. Visit MarylandHealthConnection.gov/Checkin to learn more.