Starkville Community Foundation Champions Local Growth and Development
In Starkville, there’s a spirit of togetherness and community investment that’s hard to miss! The city is abuzz with a wave of initiatives aimed at uplifting local residents and businesses, all led by the dedicated team at the Starkville Community Foundation. The foundation focuses on how investing in our own backyard benefits everyone.
Revamping the Community Space
At the Starkville Rotary Club, a heartfelt message was shared. “Our lives are all connected,” it was reminded. “When we invest in our community, we all win.” The foundation, which used to go by the name Starkville Oktibbeha Achieving Results (SOAR) for nearly two decades, rebranded in April 2023 to better reflect its mission of raising funds for various projects across Oktibbeha County.
The foundation is keen on enhancing the quality of life here, directing funds towards civic, educational, and health services. Furthermore, it directly supports cultural activities, all aimed at making Starkville not just a great place to live, but also to work, raise a family, and retire.
Community Funding in Action
So, where does the money come from? Contributions flow in from both individuals and local businesses, alongside dedicated fundraising groups like 100 People Who Care. The funds gathered then find their way back into the community through various channels. For instance, the Starkville Community Foundation partnered with 100 Women Who Care, raising around $25,000 annually to support local organizations such as the Starkville Strong Initiative and the J.L King Center.
One of the highlights from the past year was the successful renovation of the tennis courts at Starkville High School. This project, which totaled over $90,000, was a collaborative effort funded equally by the city, the school district, and the Starkville Community Foundation.
Supporting Local Livelihoods
Another significant initiative is the relaunch of Helping Hands of Oktibbeha County, a program that saw a partnership with Starkville Strong and Trinity Presbyterian Church. This collaboration raised over $66,000 in two years, enabling volunteers to assist clients with vital job skills and personal development. Since its return, more than 40 families have been empowered through resume help and job searches.
Looking Ahead: New Grant Opportunities
There are exciting plans on the horizon, particularly concerning small businesses. One promising prospect is the Pardon Our Progress Grant, designed to support local shops during the upcoming pedestrian-friendly redesign of downtown, set to rollout in early 2025. The foundation seeks to ensure businesses thrive even during challenging times.
Additionally, these grants aim to provide supplemental income to businesses participating in the foundation’s youth shadowing program. This creative initiative supports local entrepreneurs while they navigate parking constraints and offers youngsters invaluable job experience.
Investing in the Future
The Starkville Community Foundation is dedicated to strengthening the community by directly addressing the needs of local businesses and residents. By reinvesting 4% of the interest earned from its “Legacy Fund,” the foundation can support partner agencies that contribute to the community’s overall welfare.
With many plans in the pipeline and a focus on community collaboration, Starkville is on the verge of something truly special.
