Giving, Receiving, Growing… 5 years Stronger

The Black Belt Community Foundation recently celebrated it 5th birthday on May 1. Since 2005, the BBCF has worked to help the 12-counties of Alabama’s Black Belt dispel the disadvantages and negative stereotypes of the region. Beginning with an idea of a regional foundation and a newly formed partnership with the Ford Foundation, the BBCF began its work by gathering feedback from the communities and having the community to help mold and shape the ideals of the Foundation. Five years later, that premise still holds true. The “community” is still in the Black Belt Community Foundation and we are proud of it!

Over the last five years, we have helped over 400 community-based organizations sustain themselves through strategic planning and obtaining 501 (c) (3) tax-exempt statuses. We have helped touch over 500 young people through tutorial programs and youth development programs. BBCF has helped encourage Black Belt citizens to pay attention to health issues that plague our region. Finally, BBCF has worked brought an understanding of the word “philanthropy” to a region that has had a culture of “giving” for years.

The BBCF will continue to GIVE through our Arts and Community Grants Programs. In June, the BBCF reached beyond the $1 million mark and will continue to strengthen organizations through grants and other resources. The BBCF will continue to RECEIVE. It is through donors like you, inside and outside the 12-county region, which will help BBCF sustain itself and continue its work for another five years. Lastly, the BBCF will continue to GROW. The Foundation will continue to grow by improving and adding new programs that will benefit the community and its citizens. The BBCF will continue to help the communities we serve grow and flourish into its fullest potential by “taking what we have to make what we need.”