We recognize the need to develop additional capacity for organizations that are deeply connected to financially disadvantaged residents. To apply, organizations should be engaged, or demonstrate a willingness to engage, with identified countywide health improvement efforts.

In Nash and Edgecombe counties, local networks are working to address childhood trauma, reduce obesity, and decrease substance misuse rates. Bladen, Columbus, and Robeson counties are attempting to reduce substance misuse rates, address childhood trauma, and connect to statewide opportunities including Medicaid transformation and health insurance enrollment efforts to improve residents health. Rural Forward, based at the Foundation for Health Leadership & Innovation, will provide additional technical assistance to develop community-based organizations. Outcomes in Healthy Places counties are gauged by how different organizations are helping achieve locally-derived health goals.