Grant Request Grassroots Health

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form


Organization Name: Grassroots Health
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As: The Grassroot Project, Athletes United for Social Justice
Mailing Address: 740 15th St NW, Suite 322
City: Washington
State: DC
Postal Code: 20005-1019
Main Phone: 9144396635
Main Fax:
Organization Website: grassrootshealth.us
Employer ID Number: 26-4594778
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information


Today’s Date: 3/31/2025
Requested Amount: 5,000

Project Title: Game Changers: Empowering Youth Health Through Athlete-Led Education
Project Description:

Grassroots Health (GRH) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving youth health through innovative, sports-based education. Our programs equip middle school students with critical knowledge in nutrition, mental health, and sexual health while fostering positive mentorship from college student-athletes. With a focus on movement-based learning, our curriculum engages students in ways that traditional health education often fails to achieve.

With support from the Hermanowski Foundation, Grassroots Health will expand its impact during the 2024-2025 school year by serving 1,650 students across 13-14 Title I middle schools in Washington, D.C. This funding will support the recruitment and training of 300 student-athlete volunteers who will facilitate our 10-week health education program. These volunteers serve as relatable mentors, bridging the gap between health knowledge and real-life application through interactive, peer-driven discussions and activities.

In addition to classroom programming, Grassroots Health will engage 125 parents and caregivers in our Grassroots Fam workshops, designed to strengthen family communication around health topics. We will also host four Grassroots Connect health fairs, where students can access additional wellness resources and connect with local health service providers.

Grassroots Health employs a robust evaluation system to measure program success. Through pre- and post-surveys aligned with national health standards, we assess student growth in health knowledge, self-efficacy, and behavioral intentions. Last year, 97% of students reported improved understanding of healthy eating’s impact on focus, and 100% of mental health participants felt empowered to manage their well-being.

By expanding our reach, we aim to create healthier futures for D.C. youth—ensuring they have the knowledge, mentorship, and community support needed to thrive. The Hermanowski Foundation’s support will help us continue this vital work, empowering young people to take charge of their health and well-being.

Total Project Budget: 75,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): 60,000 committed

Project Duration: 8/1/2025-7/31/2026
Geographical Area Served: Washington, DC
Age Group To Be Served: 10-14 year olds

Contact Information


Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: Jane
Contact Last Name: Wallis
Contact Title: Executive Director
Contact Phone: 9144396635
Contact Email: jane@grassrootshealth.us