CFPs: Peer-Led Mental Health and Substance Use Projects (Canada)

The Spotlight on Mental Health’s Community Initiatives Fund (CIF) supports peer-led projects in Vancouver that promote recovery, inclusion, and connection. Funding of up to $4,000 for six-month projects or $8,000 for twelve-month projects helps individuals with lived experience plan and deliver accessible community programs.

What is the Community Initiatives Fund (CIF)?

The CIF enables individuals with lived experience of mental health or substance use challenges to design, lead, and facilitate community projects. The initiative focuses on grassroots, peer-run activities that strengthen recovery, personal growth, community connection, and inclusion. Projects are free to the public, removing barriers to participation and fostering meaningful engagement.

Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants must:

• Be adults aged 18 or older

• Identify as peers with lived or living experience of mental health and/or substance use challenges

• Hold project activities within the City of Vancouver or deliver them online

• Ensure participation is free, open to self-identified peers, and accessible without referrals

What Projects Are Supported?

CIF funds projects that:

• Address specific community needs

• Foster connection, recovery, and inclusion

• Build capacity for peer support and personal growth

• Create safe and welcoming environments

• Offer opportunities for both personal and community development

Examples of eligible activities:

• Peer-run workshops or support groups

• Community events promoting connection and wellbeing

• Skill-building sessions or educational programs

• Social or recreational activities fostering inclusion

Activities NOT eligible:

• Therapy or clinical interventions

• Projects generating profit

• Projects requiring paid staff to operate

• Projects where participants are only engaged at the final stages

Funding Details

• Six-month projects: Up to $4,000

• Twelve-month projects: Up to $8,000

• Funding Type: Reimbursement program (expenses initially paid by project leaders, then reimbursed)

• Eligible Expenses:

  • Compensation for project leaders and assistants

  • Venue rentals (may be invoiced directly in some cases)

  • Consumable supplies (paper, name tags, etc.)

  • Equipment rentals

  • Food and refreshments

  • Transit vouchers or parking

  • Honorariums for helpers or guest speakers

Restrictions:

• Cannot be used for purchasing equipment or fuel/gas expenses

How to Apply

1. Develop Proposal: Outline project objectives, planned activities, participant details, and anticipated benefits

2. Plan Budget: Clearly explain how funding will be used, including reimbursement and eligible expenses

3. Submit Application: Include any partnerships providing additional support or in-kind contributions

4. Ensure Accessibility: Confirm project is free, open, and welcoming for individuals with lived experience

Why It Matters

CIF empowers individuals with lived experience to lead meaningful community initiatives. By creating safe, inclusive spaces for recovery and connection, the program strengthens peer networks, promotes hope and validation, and supports personal and community growth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Proposing therapy or clinical services

• Including paid staff as primary facilitators

• Designing projects that generate profit

• Failing to engage participants throughout the project

• Submitting incomplete descriptions of planned activities or budgets

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is eligible to apply? Adults 18+ with lived experience of mental health and/or substance use challenges, hosting activities in Vancouver or online.

2. How much funding is available? Up to $4,000 for six-month projects, up to $8,000 for twelve-month projects.

3. What types of projects are supported? Peer-led community initiatives promoting recovery, connection, and inclusion.

4. Can projects charge participants? No, all activities must be free and accessible.

5. Can funding cover therapy or clinical services? No, therapy is not eligible.

6. How are funds disbursed? Through a reimbursement model; project leaders initially cover costs and submit receipts for reimbursement.

7. Are online projects eligible? Yes, projects delivered online within accessible formats are eligible.

Conclusion

The Community Initiatives Fund provides peer leaders with the resources to create impactful, grassroots projects that strengthen recovery, inclusion, and community connections. By empowering individuals with lived experience, CIF fosters hope, personal growth, and stronger mental health networks in Vancouver and online.