Young people are actively changing the world. They bring new ideas, strategies, and perspectives to issues our communities have been struggling to overcome for decades. Young people are taking to the streets, mobilizing, and speaking out against racial injustices, health inequities, and environmental racism—all with heart, hope, and vision.

In recognition of the important role young changemakers play in creating healthy, safe, vibrant, and equitable communities, Prevention Institute has partnered with Healthline to offer this year’s Stronger Scholarship. The scholarship will award three $7,000 scholarships to students working to improve community conditions and reduce health inequities in their communities.

PI encourages student advocates who work on a wide range of issues—housing rights, park equity, mental wellbeing, economic justice, racial justice, and others—to apply for this scholarship. Details about eligibility and the application process are below.

While some people may still believe health equity is just about making sure people have access to quality healthcare, the truth is that what happens outside of the healthcare system—in neighborhoods—has the greatest impact on whether people of color and low-income people can live healthy lives. That’s why this scholarship focuses on the community determinants of health and the systems that need to be transformed to undo decades of unjust outcomes.

Who is eligible for the scholarship?

• Students of color who identify as Black, Indigenous, Latinx, and/or Pacific Islander
• College juniors or seniors in Fall 2021
• Students who demonstrate leadership and community involvement related to health equity

Applicants should demonstrate involvement in health equity by breaking down barriers to health for the Black, Indigenous, and Hispanic/Latinx communities. The social determinants of health are the non-medical factors that influence health outcomes. They include education, housing, income, access to healthy food, physical environment, healthcare access, racism, and other forms of discrimination, among other community and social factors.

This definition is intentionally broad to encourage applicants to creatively demonstrate the connection between their work and health equity in the essay portion of the application.

• junior
• senior

• US Citizen
• Permanent Resident
• International or Other Visa Status
• Undocumented

The scholarships can be applied to tuition, fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for course load at accredited, nonprofit colleges/universities in the United States.

You can apply for this scholarship here. The FAQ section explains what materials you need to submit. 

If you’ve read the FAQs and still have questions, please reach out to Andrea Buffa at Prevention Institute: andrea@preventioninstitute.org