Is there a deadline for applying for funding from CareFirst?
Proposals are accepted and reviewed on a continuing basis throughout the year.

When/how should I expect an answer to my request?
Applicants are notified by postcard or phone when a proposal has been received.  Generally, decisions regarding grants are made within 4 to 6 weeks.  Requests for more than $100,000 may take up to 12 weeks.

Who do I contact for more information regarding the status of my request?
If you have not heard within 4-6 weeks (up to 12 weeks if your request is over $100,000) you can contact us via e-mail at Community.Relations@CareFirst.com.

Or, please contact the CareFirst representative that sent the acknowledgement of your grant request.

What factors guide CareFirst’s corporate giving?
Many factors are considered when making funding decisions. Our preference is to leverage resources by working in partnership with organizations that have specific expertise or insight into pressing community needs.  As part of our CareFirst Commitment program, we are specifically focused on programs that:

• Improve the access and affordability of health care
• Address health disparities
• Improve health care quality and safety
• Support health and wellness initiatives

How does CareFirst make decisions regarding which causes and organizations to support?
CareFirst committed $40 million in 2008 — to charitable giving. Furthermore, the company allocates a minimum of 85% of all gifts to health-related organizations, causes and events.

The Mission Oversight Committee of the CareFirst, Inc. Board of Directors, supported by the staff of the Community Relations department, works to shape program and giving strategies that are consistent with the organization’s mission and that hold the promise of producing measurable improvement in health care access, quality and affordability to review how we establish our giving budget [make this link to Areas of Giving page].

How much lead time should I give CareFirst if I am looking for an event sponsorship?
Event sponsorships need plenty of time to plan exhibit space, advertising needs and securing of calendars. Six months of lead time is recommended.

Can I advertise an event to CareFirst associates?
CareFirst publishes a community calendar that is made available to the public and to all CareFirst Associates. If you would like us add your event to our calendar please send your information to Community.Relations@CareFirst.com

How would I go about requesting CareFirst associates as volunteers for my organization or an event?
Send your request to Community.Relations@CareFirst.com with as much detail as possible, including background and mission or your organization, dates, times and number of volunteers needed.

How is giving allocated among Maryland, Washington, D.C. and Northern Virginia?
CareFirst works to ensure that charitable giving and mission-related program funding is shared equally between CareFirst of Maryland, Inc. and the GHMSI/National Capital Area regions.