Wellpoint New Jersey and Civic Association Partner on Paterson Impact Grant Focused on Grassroots Solutions for Community Well-Being

By Hunter Gilmore

A new community-focused funding initiative in Paterson is aiming to turn small ideas into meaningful neighborhood impact. The Paterson Impact Grant Program, launched through a partnership between Wellpoint New Jersey and the Andre Sayegh Civic Association, is designed to provide seed funding to grassroots and small community-based organizations working to strengthen health, well-being, and local capacity.

Unlike traditional large-scale grant programs, this initiative focuses on smaller groups and neighborhood leaders who often lack access to major funding streams but are deeply embedded in the community.

“We say this all the time—whole health is about so much more than just clinical or medical care,” said Anya Nawrocky, Director of Member Experience and Growth at Wellpoint New Jersey. “Members need stable social supports in place in order to feel secure and fully focus on managing chronic conditions and other physical health needs.”

Nawrocky said the program was intentionally built to support practical, local solutions that can grow over time.

“With just a little bit of seed money, you can really empower local nonprofits and also community leaders to make a meaningful difference in their community,” she said. “Often, you don’t need a lot to be able to make a big impact and also a sustainable impact.”

The Andre Sayegh Civic Association, which co-leads the effort locally, was itself created in response to neighborhood needs. Farhanna Sayegh explained that the organization began with residents coming together to build a playground and has since expanded into youth programs, scouting, and sports access.

“Our Civic Association was created based on community demand,” Sayegh said. “Through our programs, we’re trying to drive volunteerism. We’re trying to drive a level of civic engagement that is really needed for strong communities.”

Interest in the grant program has been strong, with dozens of applications already submitted. Proposed projects include healthy food access in food deserts, hygiene and shower services, early childhood literacy efforts, neighborhood cleanups, youth support programs, and community wellness activities. 

Both partners emphasized that the program is meant to lower barriers for smaller organizations that may not have formal grant-writing infrastructure but are already doing critical community work. 

Program partners say selected grantees will be announced publicly and that future funding rounds are planned. They hope the program will not only fund projects but also inspire broader civic participation across Paterson. 

For organizations considering applying in future funding rounds, both partners say the door is open to new ideas and local problem solvers. Sayegh encourages community participation. “We shouldn’t just be bystanders in our community. We should be active participants in our community,” she said.