Shift Award Grant

For those wanting to return to work

Grant cycle opens: TBD

Support for your return to work

Returning to work or preparing for employment after a spinal cord injury can come with added costs and accessibility barriers. Philomath’s Shift Award Grant helps Californians with spinal cord injuries access practical support as they work toward returning to work or preparing for their next employment opportunity.

Grant at a glance

  • Award amount: Up to $1,000

  • For: People with spinal cord injuries who are returning to work or preparing for employment through school or training

  • Application: Submit an application and a detailed budget explaining how the requested funds will support your work-related goals

What the grant may support

The Shift Grant may help with expenses such as:

  • Assistive technology, devices, or job-related software

  • Schooling, job training, books, supplies, or certification costs

  • Transportation barriers related to getting to work or training

  • Mobility-related or ergonomic equipment that supports comfort during extended work periods

  • Workplace accommodations or accessibility modifications

  • Other equipment or resources that help you prepare for work or overcome employment barriers

Who can apply

Applicants must:

  • Have a spinal cord injury

  • Be at least 18 years old

  • Live in California

  • Demonstrate financial need and provide proof of income

Grant recipients must consent to Philomath sharing their story and/or likeness in communications about the Visionary Award Grant as a condition of accepting the award.

What to include in your application

Tell us about your employment goals and the support you need to move forward. Your application should address:

  • What kind of work are you returning to or preparing for?

  • Where are you in the process - for example, returning to a job, looking for work, or attending school or training?

  • What barriers related to your spinal cord injury have affected your ability to work or prepare for employment?

  • What expenses would you like the grant to cover? Include a detailed budget.

  • How would this support help you make progress toward your employment goals?

Be the first to know when applications open. Please fill out your information below to join the waitlist.