Pathways to Play Grants
Pathways to Play Grants support rural Virginia youth through improvements to existing play spaces and recurring physical activity programs that expand access to active play and help prevent chronic disease.
Funder: Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth
Due Dates: September 24, 2026 (Opened) | October 28, 2026, 5 p.m. ET (Application) | December 1, 2026 (Initial awards) | July 15, 2027 (Completion) | August 1, 2027 (Final report and invoice)
Funding Amounts: Up to $100,000 for one-time Play Space Activation projects; up to $50,000 per year for Active Programming; initial contracts end July 15, 2027
Summary: Supports improvements to existing play spaces and recurring physical activity programs for youth in eligible rural Virginia localities.
Key Information: Reimbursement only: applicants must pay approved expenses upfront, with no advance funding.
Description
The Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth (VFHY) administers Pathways to Play through Virginia’s Rural Health Transformation Program, under the Live Well Together initiative and Active Kids sub-initiative. The program expands access to physical activity for youth in 76 eligible rural Virginia localities, supporting chronic disease prevention through safer spaces and regular opportunities to be active.
Play Space Activation supports repairs, upgrades, equipment replacement, and minor repurposing of existing recreation spaces—not construction of new facilities. Improvements may benefit current users without increasing attendance. Active Programming supports planned, recurring activities such as sports, dance, martial arts, yoga, and outdoor adventure, including equipment and instructors. Both categories emphasize demonstrated need, participation tracking, and sustainability beyond the grant period.
