Become a Rapid Response Fund Community Grantmaker with Headwaters Foundation for Justice (2026–2027 Cycle)

Overview

The Headwaters Foundation for Justice (HFJ) has opened applications for individuals interested in serving as Community Grantmakers for the Rapid Response Fund (RRF). This opportunity places decision‑making power directly into the hands of Minnesota community members, ensuring that grassroots organizations receive timely support during urgent political, social, and community‑based moments.

Applications are open from June 10 to July 20, and HFJ seeks 12–15 community members to serve on the committee from August 2026 through June 2027. This is a paid, community‑centered leadership role designed to strengthen collective decision‑making and support strategic organizing across Minnesota.

About the Rapid Response Fund

The Rapid Response Fund provides $15,000 general operating grants to organizations responding to:

• Unexpected events
• Urgent challenges
• Rapidly emerging political or social moments

The next grantmaking year begins in Fall 2026, with eight (8) cycles of funding. Across these cycles, the committee will select 53 grantees whose work aligns with HFJ’s mission of justice, equity, and community power.

Committee Role Description

As a Rapid Response Fund Community Grantmaker, selected individuals will:

• Build relationships with fellow committee members and practice collective decision‑making.
• Receive training in community‑led grantmaking and HFJ’s approach to shared power.
• Read, evaluate, and select grantees for the Rapid Response Fund.
• Participate in 3–4 cycles out of the 8 total cycles, based on personal availability.
• Make final decisions on grant awards—your selections directly determine which organizations receive funding.
• Receive a $1,500 stipend in recognition of your time, labor, and expertise.
• Meet eligibility requirements, including living in Minnesota and being over 18 years old.

Committee Selection Process

HFJ uses a transparent, community‑centered selection process:

1. Submit an online application by July 20.
2. Rolling review: HFJ staff will schedule calls with applicants to discuss expectations, answer questions, and ensure clarity about the commitment.
3. Final notifications: All applicants will be informed of their selection status by July 30.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Below is a broad overview of the types of questions addressed on the HFJ website:

• Time Commitment: Committee members participate in training, relationship‑building, and 3–4 grant cycles.
• Committee Schedule: Activities run from August 2026 to June 2027.
• Ideal Candidates: Individuals passionate about justice, community power, and grassroots organizing.
• Selection Criteria: HFJ seeks diverse voices, lived experiences, and community‑rooted perspectives.
• Volunteer or Paid?: This is a paid opportunity with a $1,500 stipend.
• Location Requirements: You must live anywhere in Minnesota—not limited to the Twin Cities.
• Childcare: HFJ may provide accommodations; details are typically discussed during applicant calls.
• Future Interest: Individuals not ready this year can stay connected through HFJ’s mailing list.

Important Dates

• Application Opens: June 10
• Application Deadline: July 20
• Selection Notifications: July 30
• Committee Term: August 2026 – June 2027
• Grantmaking Cycles: Eight cycles beginning Fall 2026

Why This Opportunity Matters

This initiative shifts power to the community, ensuring that those closest to the issues help determine where resources go. It strengthens grassroots leadership, supports rapid‑response organizing, and builds a more equitable funding ecosystem across Minnesota.

Apply here

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