Rewarding Dedicated Rural Nurses
Do you know a nurse serving in a rural Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC)? This is your chance—or theirs—to gain recognition and reward for unwavering dedication to rural healthcare.
Retaining Nursing Talent Through Innovative Programs
Beyond attracting new talent, retaining experienced nurses is crucial for the stability and effectiveness of rural healthcare systems. In response, the Illinois Nurses Foundation is launching a nurse retention program in early 2025. The program aims to reduce turnover rates among nurses in rural FQHCs by providing retention awards to nurses who have completed at least one continuous year of service.
Awards go beyond financial incentives—they recognize the dedication and commitment nurses bring to their roles, enhancing job satisfaction, workforce stability, and patient trust in healthcare providers.
Eligibility:
- Nurses must work in an FQHC classified as rural according to HRSA. Verify eligibility here: Rural Health Grants Eligibility Analyzer.
- Supervisor recommendation required.
- Provide verification of at least one continuous year of service at a rural FQHC.
How to Apply:
- Ten $2,500 retention awards will be granted.
- Apply online: Application Link
- Submit a narrative statement (up to 500 words) detailing your motivations, contributions, and the importance of retention programs.
- Applications accepted through June 1, 2025.
- Awards distributed in July 2025.
Self-nominations are welcome.
Encourage a rural nurse today—or apply yourself—and help us build lasting rural healthcare solutions.
INF Rural Health Initiative – Supporting Those Who Serve