Stories of Impact: 2023 Grant Recipients

As we reflect on the past year, we’re deeply encouraged by the transformative impact our grant recipients made on the Coastal Bend community and beyond. They see the world like we do: brimming with untapped potential–a vast reservoir of intelligent and creative minds that should not be hindered by circumstance. Together, we’re making sure every person gets the chance to experience life to its fullest.

In 2023, we were proud to support 20 organizations that share our mission. Providing  $455,525 in grant support and $489,555 in total funds, we helped these groups secure the tools and resources they need to sustain their work. We’re honored to provide this financial support, but beyond the numbers are the hardworking people moving our mission forward and the many lives touched by their efforts.

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Meet the grant recipients–our boots on the ground

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Education and the Arts Spotlight: K Space Contemporary

We were privileged to support K Space Contemporary in the continuation of their Mural Arts Program (MAP). This initiative provides  an enriching educational experience for underserved, at-risk, and economically disadvantaged teens  with a passion for the arts.  MAP brings these young individuals together to work creatively and collaboratively towards a shared goal: creating large-scale murals under the guidance of professional muralists. K Space Contemporary's dedication to making this experience accessible to all, irrespective of socio-economic status, exemplifies our shared mission to overcome challenges and foster inclusivity within the community. See the murals and more at kspacecontemporary.org.

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Environmental Awareness and Conservation Spotlight: Blood Origins Inc.

2023 grant recipient, Blood Origins Inc., is on a mission to spread the truth about hunting. Their new series, Connecting the Dots, echoes the profound and often misunderstood impact hunting has on people, wildlife, and communities. It underscores hunting’s vital role in maintaining habitats, providing employment, and fostering growth in small rural communities in Texas. Discover more about their mission at bloodorigins.org.

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Pathways to College and Entrepreneurship Spotlight: Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Foundation (Camp DPI)

Camp DPI is more than a summer program; it's a gateway to possibilities. Offering high school juniors from diverse backgrounds hands-on workshops in Graphic Design, Camp DPI aims to increase diversity in this creative field. The impact? Empowered students with a greater understanding of fundamental design principles and portfolios that equip them to pursue graphic design in college.To learn more about Camp DPI and other TAMU-CC programs, visit https://www.tamucc.edu/samc/art-and-design/camp-dpi/index.php.

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Child Protection and Welfare Spotlight: West Side Helping Hand

West Side Helping Hand is an educational and recreational youth center offering free after-school and summer programs for low-income youth in Corpus Christi. Their mission is rooted in practical, real-life wants and needs. Every day they’re guiding students toward success through academic support, character formation, career opportunities, extra-curricular activities, and organized sports. Because of their care and mentorship, 95 children are now passing grades and growing in a nurturing environment. Learn more about how they’re mission at wshhcc.org.

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"Thanks to your support, we are able to provide a safe, healthy, and inspiring environment for our children… We are thrilled to report that our goals were met, and our children have passed on to the next grade level with continuous attendance in our programs." ‍

Anahi Mendez

Executive Assistant

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These stories remind us that our efforts have real impact. Thank you to our staff and community partners who made 2023 a truly impactful year. As we stand on the threshold of 2024, we anticipate new possibilities with eager excitement. No matter what progress is made or achievements celebrated, we remain persistent in our pursuit of a world where every person has the opportunity to create a life of success. Here's to closing this chapter with gratitude and stepping into the future with hope.