Since 2015, the Glenn Family Foundation has tirelessly worked to eliminate disparities among communities in the Mississippi Delta. Over the past decade, the Glenn Family has launched numerous initiatives focusing on health, education, and community empowerment. This article highlights the foundation’s significant milestones and its commitment to fostering thriving communities.
2015: Laying the Foundation
The Glenn Family Foundation began its journey with impactful community outreach programs. Notable events included the Fall Harvest and Community Outreach Event on September 26 and the distribution of toiletry kits to Cleveland, Mississippi School District students on August 28, in partnership with Hope and Comfort. During the summer, the foundation launched its Summer Feeding Program, addressing food insecurity among children.
2016-2017: Expanding Health and Wellness Initiatives
Continuing its mission, the Glenn Family organized the annual Health, Wellness, and Safety Tailgate in October of both 2016 and 2017. These events, held at H.M. Nailor School, provided critical health resources and information to the community, emphasizing preventive care and overall wellness.
2018-2019: Tackling Food Insecurity and Strategic Planning
In 2018 and 2019, GFF expanded its Summer Feeding Program, serving children at H.M. Nailor Elementary and Cleveland Central Middle School. These programs ensured consistent access to nutritious meals during the summer months. The foundation hosted a Health, Wellness, and Safety Tailgate at Cleveland Central Middle School. In December 2019, GFF completed a 2020-2025 strategic plan competition, setting a clear roadmap for future initiatives.
2020: Adapting to Challenges
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Glenn Family’s commitment remained steadfast. In March 2020, the foundation joined the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation County Health Rankings & Roadmaps Community Cohort. August marked Mississippi’s first community-based trauma symposium, addressing the mental health needs of Delta residents. The year concluded with a Christmas Giveaway and Clothing Drive, spreading warmth and joy to families in need.
2021: Promoting Trauma Awareness and Empowerment
In 2021, the foundation hosted its 2nd Annual ACEs and Trauma Symposium, presenting groundbreaking findings on adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) in impoverished communities. Partnering with Lesley University, the GFF highlighted its Integrated Health Empowerment and Literacy Initiative and participated in the Violence Against Women Conference. A year-long I-HEAL Parent Workshop Series provided resources to parents, while teacher training sessions at Inverness Elementary equipped educators with tools to address trauma in classrooms.
2022: Addressing Community Crises and Building Capacity
In 2022, the Glenn Family’s activities underscored its adaptability and responsiveness. During the Jackson Water Crisis in October, the foundation co-hosted two Community Water Drives, delivering essential supplies to affected residents. Other initiatives included the I-HEAL Community Wellness Day, teacher training programs, and a Youth Empowerment Seminar. Notably, the 3rd Annual ACEs and Trauma Awareness Symposium presented innovative solutions for quelling community and domestic violence.
This year, the foundation also distributed personal hygiene kits to Ruleville Central Middle School students to help them meet their basic needs.
A Vision for the Future
The Glenn Family Foundation’s impact over the past decade is a testament to its unwavering commitment to the Mississippi Delta. By addressing disparities and promoting community development, the foundation has laid a strong foundation for future growth. As the foundation moves forward, it remains dedicated to empowering communities and ensuring equitable opportunities for all.