SMBI- Innovating Forward Initiative
The Innovating Forward Initiative (IFI) is designed to strengthen partnerships between faith-based and mental health communities by fostering meaningful collaboration through evidence-informed training, trusted relationships, and practical local implementation. By equipping leaders and organizations with knowledge, resources, and shared purpose, IFI helps bridge the gap between faith and mental health to promote holistic well-being and lasting community impact.
What We Do
We equip faith-based and community-based nonprofit leaders with practical tools to develop referral pathways, supportive programs, and culturally responsive approaches to mental health and wellness. Through training, peer learning, and collaborative problem-solving, organizations build the capacity to integrate spirituality into their work while connecting with a growing network of community leaders. Together, participants exchange ideas, share promising practices, support one another, and strengthen their collective impact to promote holistic well-being in the communities they serve.
Who It's For
Designed for faith-based and community-based nonprofit organizations seeking to integrate spirituality into evidence-informed mental health and wellness programs. Through training, collaborative learning, and implementation support, organizations build the knowledge, skills, and partnerships needed to create sustainable, community-driven initiatives that promote holistic well-being.
How It Works
Certification (6 Weeks) → Complete a six-week certification while developing a project proposal.
Cohort Learning → Learn with peers, hear from past participants, and refine your project through collaboration.
SEED Funding (6 Months) → Approved organizations receive funding and participate in monthly cohort meetings for shared learning and support.
Implementation → Launch your project, measure its impact, and share outcomes and lessons learned with the cohort.
Innovating Forward Initiative seeding Faith Based Mental Health partnerships across the U.S.
Certification Program
A structured learning experience that builds shared language, skill, and implementation readiness for faith-based mental health and community wellness collaboration.
Program Outcomes
- Shared framework for faith-based mental health collaboration
- Practical tools for referral pathways, support, and program design
- Implementation plan tailored to your local context
- Peer learning and resource exchange
What You'll Receive
- Facilitated sessions + guided activities
- Templates (partnerships, referral pathways, program planning)
- Access to the IFI learning network
- Pathway to apply for SEED funding (if applicable)
Who Should Apply
Faith and community leaders, community-based organizations, chaplains, educators, and local partners who are building or strengthening mental health and wellness initiatives.
Format
Cohort-based sessions with practical assignments, peer feedback, and support for implementation planning.
Next Steps
Submit an interest form to receive dates, curriculum details, and enrollment guidance.
SEED Grants
Micro-grants to support community-based, faith-informed mental health and wellness initiatives.
What We Fund
- Community-based mental health initiatives
- Faith-informed referral and support systems
- Training, partnerships, and program development
- Implementation pilots and program strengthening
Eligibility
- Faith or community-based organizations
- Clear local implementation plan
- Defined population served
- Commitment to collaboration and reporting
Funding Purpose
SEED funding is intended to catalyze innovative community partnerships that strengthen mental health access, wellness promotion, and sustainable referral ecosystems.
Application Process
- Complete the online SEED Grant application form.
- IFI team review and evaluation.
- Selected applicants will be contacted for next steps.
Events
Monthly Community Exchange gatherings and upcoming IFI events coming soon.
Contact
Questions, collaboration ideas, or updates to your project profile? Send us a message and we’ll respond as soon as possible. For media or partnership inquiries, please include your organization and role in the message.
- Email: yjp2107@tc.columbia.edu or innovatingforwardinitiative@gmail.com
- Institute: Spirituality Mind Body Institute
- College: Teachers College, Columbia University