The following is a press release by Seeds of Strength
Georgetown, TX – December 4, 2024 – Seeds of Strength Georgetown is proud to announce Simple Sparrow Care Farm Georgetown as the first recipient of its newly established $5,000 Founders Grant. This milestone grant, awarded in December 2024, celebrates the visionary leadership of Seeds of Strength’s founders and honors their legacy by empowering organizations that make a tangible, immediate impact in the community.
The Founders Grant, established in 2024, was developed by the Board of Directors as a meaningful way to honor the late Barbara Brightwell, one of Seeds of Strength’s founding members, who passed away in the summer of 2023. An ad hoc committee proposed a detailed plan for the grant, which was adopted by the board. This special grant is funded entirely through donations separate from Seeds of Strength’s regular membership contributions, ensuring its sustainability as an annual tradition.
“The Founders Grant exemplifies Seeds of Strength’s mission to inspire and support community betterment,” said Amy Bawcom, President, Seeds of Strength. “It honors the founding members and charter members who established our mission, vision, and core values in 2010, while also allowing us to empower innovative nonprofits like Simple Sparrow Georgetown.”
Simple Sparrow Care Farm Georgetown, a nonprofit dedicated to therapeutic farm-based activities, perfectly aligns with the spirit of the Founders Grant. Through animal assisted therapy, hands-on learning, and nature-based programs, Simple Sparrow provides a sanctuary for mental health support and personal growth. Their work has had a profound impact on the Georgetown community, fostering healing and empowerment for individuals and families alike.
The Founders Grant is designed to highlight smaller, maturing nonprofits with the potential to use funds for immediate and tangible impact. The selection process focuses on grant applicants from the most recently concluded Seeds of Strength grant cycle who meet the following criteria:
- Can demonstrate the ability to make an immediate, tangible impact with the grant funds;
- Were either new to the Seeds of Strength grant process or previously qualified applicants who were not funded;
- Are small but maturing nonprofits;
- Can responsibly execute the grant within the following calendar year.
“We are absolutely thrilled to receive the $5,000 Founders Grant! This generous support will significantly impact Simple Sparrow, enabling us to expand our reach and enhance our facilities. Thanks to this grant, we can better serve our community and continue providing our vital programs and services,” said Judy Holcomb, Executive Director, Simple Sparrow Care Farm Georgetown.
The Founders Grant is overseen by a committee that includes the Past Year Grants Chair, Treasurer, Current President, Past President, and Past Year Compliance Chair. A separate financial account has been established to manage donations specifically designated for the Founders Grant, with the goal of awarding at least $5,000 annually.
For more information about Seeds of Strength Georgetown and its initiatives, please visit seedsofstrength.org. To learn more about Simple Sparrow Care Farm Georgetown and their impactful programs, visit simplesparrow.farm.
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