What a generous act.
Brotherhood Mutual Insurance Company’s Foundation, a nonprofit linked with a prominent Christian insurance provider, awarded $150,000 in grants to support five church-based charities dedicated to advancing the Kingdom of God through their impactful work. These grants, part of the Foundation’s annual Kingdom Advancing Grant initiative, were meticulously allocated to selected church programs out of a pool of nearly 400 applicants.
The Foundation’s Director, Kathy Bruce, highlighted that these grants went beyond financial aid, providing recipient ministries with crucial connections and support. Each selected program was paired with experienced church leaders from the Granting Council, facilitating mentorship to navigate challenges, share resources, and establish essential networks.
The grants were tailored to specific program needs: Good Laundry, The Maker’s Center, Foster Church, SMART Academic & Enrichment Program, and Refugee Employment received varying amounts based on careful estimations of their respective costs. Michelle Thompson, representing The Maker’s Center, expressed deep appreciation for the grant’s assistance in aiding recovering addicts and addressing poverty in West Virginia amid the opioid crisis.
Similarly, Pastor Eric D. Cole of Shalom Community emphasized the significance of the Brotherhood Foundation Grant for their Academic & Enrichment Program. The grant aims to support education for economically disadvantaged students, including homeless families, addressing pandemic-induced learning setbacks through enhanced training and technology.
The selection process involved a rigorous assessment, including eligibility checks, comprehensive documentation, and a thorough nine-page application. The Granting Council, composed of independent church leaders, shortlisted semi-finalists based on a stringent criterion, ultimately selecting the recipients considering project alignment and potential mentorship opportunities.
Overall, these grants signify a crucial step in supporting church-based charities’ endeavors to uplift communities through impactful initiatives, offering not just financial aid but also invaluable guidance, resources, and networks to further their missions.