The Greater Boston division of the American Heart Association (AHA) is currently accepting applicants for its Community Impact Grants. AHA will award $125,000 in grant funds to local non-profit community groups and organizations with programs aimed at combatting childhood obesity.

“We are thrilled to be able to provide opportunities for local community programs who share a mutual passion with the American Heart Association in building healthier lives, free of cardiovascular disease and stroke,” said Aleah Graziano, Community Relations Director at the AHA.

Online applications for the 2013-2014 Community Impact Grants are now being accepted until December 31^st. Any non-profit organization located in Suffolk, Norfolk, Middlesex, and Essex counties is eligible to apply. Applicants must have 501C3 status or partner with a 501C3 organization that agrees to be the fiscal agent for the grant. Collaborative applications with local, state or federal agencies are encouraged.

Proposals must be aimed at reducing cardiovascular diseases and their risk factors, and focus specifically on combating childhood obesity (www.HealthierGeneration.org). Awards may be used for new initiatives or for expansion of already successful projects. Strong consideration will be given to projects that address these health issues in diverse populations, in which health initiatives and resources are limited.

Previous award recipients include Playworks, a school-based recess program to increase physical activity in Boston schools; Sociedad Latina, a youth leader training program dedicated to educating local populations about nutrition and physical activity in Roxbury; and Vineyard Community Offerings, whose Soccer Nights program offers free summer soccer camps in Cambridge.

A total of $125,000 is awarded in increments of $1,000 to $25,000. Applications are due by December 31^st and organizations will be notified in June for the award term of July 1, 2013 – June 30, 2014. For more information and for the online application, visit www.heart.org/BostonCIG or email Aleah Graziano at bostoncig@heart.org.

About the American Heart Association

Founded in 1924, we’re the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary health organization dedicated to building healthier lives, free of heart disease and stroke.  To help prevent, treat and defeat these diseases — America’s No. 1 and No. 3 killers — we fund cutting-edge research, conduct lifesaving public and professional educational programs, and advocate to protect public health.  To learn more or join us in helping all Americans, call 1-800-AHA-USA1 or visit www.heart.org.

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