Belonging Boost Grant 2026-2027
The “Belonging Boost” Grant was started after hearing that students want more opportunities to join Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) in the Winter and Spring Quarters. Health Promotion is offering $100 to RSOs who would like to host a welcome meeting/event specifically designed for new members. This grant is meant to combat loneliness and boost belonging among the student body.
Why is this grant offered?
- We hear from students that they often want to join an RSO mid-year but are apprehensive about walking into a meeting that is not meant for new members.
- During Fall, there’s a strong emphasis on “finding your community” and “trying new things.” But for students who still want more social interaction or are hoping to make more friends later in the year, there tend to be fewer opportunities to do so in Winter and Spring quarter.
- Over 50% of students reported feelings of loneliness. These feelings can be elevated by the weather and seasonal affective disorder that presents itself in the winter.
Who can apply?
- Any Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) at UC Davis
- RSOs that have failed to complete grant requirements in the past will not be eligible for funding.
Overview
- RSOs can apply for $100 to cover supplies or food for a welcome meeting/event specifically designed for new members
- The meeting/event must take place during Winter Quarter or the first 5 weeks of Spring Quarter 2027.
- These meetings/events can take place on or off campus.
- RSOs are eligible for funding once per academic year.
- Clubs who are new to hosting events for new members in Winter or Spring quarters will be given extra consideration.
- Please be sure to research the cost of supplies/rentals etc. before filling out the budget portion of the application.
Application Timeline
- Applications are due by Friday, November 20th, 2026 at 11:59 PM.
- Be sure to follow @AggieMentalHealth on Instagram for the most up-to-date information.
- Successful applicants will need to submit pre-event requirements (outlined below) at least one week prior to their event to receive their funding.
- This deadline excludes December 24, 2026, through January 3, 2027, as staff are not working at that time. If you would like to host your event week 1 of winter quarter, please submit pre-event requirements by December 17th, 2026.
- The RSO will have Winter Quarter and the first 5 weeks of Spring Quarter to host a welcome meeting/event.
Requirements
- The event must specifically be advertised as a meeting/event for new members.
- “New members welcome” on flyers or Instagram posts is NOT sufficient.
- Your event should give new members an intentional opportunity to connect with your RSO and other students.
- Funding can be used for food, event supplies, gift card incentives, campus-approved vendor giveaways, or campus-provided services (e.g., renting a space, tables, or AV equipment).
- Please contact Sydney ([email protected]) and cc Leah ([email protected]) if you would like to ask whether other expenses can be covered.
- We cannot support personnel contracts, such as hiring a DJ.
- RSOs that receive funding must submit the following items:
Pre-event Requirements:- Submit a signed copy of the funding guidelines.
- Submit a completed budget sheet.
- Submit event flyer/Instagram post
- During-Event Requirements:
- Take photos and keep track of attendance.
- Have participants complete the required post-event survey
- Post-Event Requirements:
- Submit receipts for all purchases made with grant funds showing that purchases align with the amount awarded to the RSO.
- Submit a post-event report completed by an RSO leader, including photos, attendance numbers, and other required event information.
Failure to submit the required documents may affect your RSO’s eligibility for future funding.
Apply for the "Belonging Boost" Grant 2026-2027!
Examples of meetings/events that are “new member” friendly
- A Boba Social
- Purchase boba for your club members and specifically invite new members that day
- Informally talk about the club and what you do
- Encourage new members to meet new people and talk to existing members
- A “Welcome Night” for new members
- Invite new and existing members to attend a welcome night or “Winter Quarter Kick-Off” meeting
- Make part of the meeting interactive and fun, such as trivia or a game to integrate new members into the club
- Provide food or prizes to incentivize attendance
Questions?
Contact Sydney Holmes at [email protected] and CC Leah Mil at [email protected].
Follow @AggieMentalHealth on Instagram for updates.