Philanthropic Strategies to Reduce and Prevent Health Disparities

This presentation will focus on how a local foundation developed and implemented a successful philanthropic strategy to help reduce health disparities in their community. The presentation shares important lessons for philanthropies interested in pursing an effective grantmaking and investment strategy to reduce health disparities.

The presentation will also review relevant research and literature on effective grantmaking strategies to ensure successful advocacy and policy change.

The Health Trust is a nonprofit foundation, located in Santa Clara County with a strong commitment to public health, which includes improving oral health and reducing health disparities. San Jose, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, is the largest remaining city in the United States without fluoridation. As a result, many of the area's residents—especially lower income and minority populations—experience disproportionate rates of dental caries.

Fluoridation in Silicon Valley would require a significant public investment as well as public support and commitment. To help achieve this, The Health Trust developed a comprehensive, three pronged strategy to successfully enlist the relevant stakeholders needed for effective change.