In 2014, the Walton Family Foundation renewed its commitment to ensure the long-term economic growth of Phillips County, Arkansas and Coahoma County, Mississippi. Our 2020 strategic plan for the Home Region includes more than $43 million in planned investments for the Delta over the next five years.
During our three-day visit, we met with elected officials, local leaders, grantees and educators. While creative ideas and different perspectives were abundant, there’s one common thread that tied them all together – opportunity.
When we toured the KIPP Delta facilities in Helena-West Helena, we witnessed the impact of the foundation’s initiatives that have come full circle. We met Stephanie, a former Teach For America corps member who came to the Delta nine years ago and decided to stay. She just assumed the school director role for KIPP Delta Collegiate High.
In Clarksdale, during our conversation with Mayor Luckett, we had the pleasure of meeting one of his interns, Michael. Michael is 15 years old and participates in one of the programs supported by a Home Region grant – the Spring Initiative. This unique after-school program provides children access to academic tutoring, art and life-skill lessons. This internship creates a connection between skills taught in an after-school program and real world application.
But seizing opportunity doesn’t come without challenges. Over the next five years, we will work with local partners, old and new, to support the pre-K-12 education system, improve public safety, engage and develop young people, and invest in targeted job creation.
The roadmap to success will be refined as we continue to meet with community members who live and work in the Delta. One thing is clear: The best opportunity for our team is the willingness these inspiring organizations have to be our partners.
