Emory University’s Nia Project has received a $2.5 million grant from the Action for Women’s Health initiative, aimed at expanding trauma-informed mental health care and research for women. The Nia Project, based at Grady Health System and part of Emory University School of Medicine’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, will use the funding to strengthen clinical programs, deepen research efforts, and increase access to care for women affected by violence, trauma, or suicidal behavior.
Action for Women’s Health is a global initiative launched in 2024 with a total fund of $250 million provided by Pivotal, an organization network established by Melinda French Gates. The initiative supports innovative groups worldwide working to improve women’s mental and physical health. Out of more than 4,000 applicants from 119 countries, 80 organizations were selected through a rigorous review process.
“We are deeply honored and grateful to receive this transformative support for the Nia Project,” said Nadine J. Kaslow, PhD, professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Emory University School of Medicine and chief psychologist at Grady Health System. “This investment affirms our mission to empower women who have experienced trauma and to help them rebuild their lives with strength and purpose.”
The Nia Project was founded by Kaslow in the early 1990s to provide culturally responsive therapy, crisis intervention, and community-based programs for women recovering from trauma. It integrates clinical care with research focused on gender-responsive mental health models.
“This generous contribution ignites a bold new chapter for the Nia Project,” said Dorian A. Lamis, PhD, co-director of the Nia Project and associate professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Emory University School of Medicine. “It allows us to expand access to comprehensive care and continue developing approaches that embolden women recover and thrive.”
Leaders of the program expect that the new funding will enhance direct services while broadening the project’s impact on women’s health across different communities.
“The Action for Women’s Health award empowers us to dream bigger, act bolder and build a future where every woman regardless of her circumstances can move forward with dignity, strength and hope,” said Sarah E. Dunn, PhD, co-director of the Nia Project and assistant professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Emory University School of Medicine.
For additional details about Action for Women’s Health and its awardees, visit Lever for Change.
