Expanding Education, Supporting Survivors, Strengthening Systems
WILMINGTON, N.C. The Endowment has approved three new grants totaling $1.2M to support New Hanover County teachers, expand services for survivors of sexual abuse, and build nonprofit capacity, reinforcing The Endowment’s mission to transform our community so all will thrive.
“These investments reflect our belief that strong communities are built through collaboration and sustained support,” said Sophie Dagenais, Interim President and CEO of The Endowment. “Each grant represents a strategic effort to not only meet immediate needs, but to strengthen the systems and relationships that promote lasting change.”
Communities In Schools of Cape Fear will receive $900,000 to launch a three-year pilot initiative to support educators in ten New Hanover County schools where additional classroom resources are limited. In the absence of traditional school-based parent organizations, this initiative, managed and deployed by Communities In Schools, will provide a structured process for teachers to access materials and support activities not covered by district funding. The goal is to enhance classroom instruction, foster more personalized and engaging learning environments, and promote a culture of support that contributes to teacher satisfaction and retention.
“This grant will provide additional support and valuable educational resources for classrooms through our partnership with Communities in Schools,” said David Stegall, Director of Education. “The educational opportunities made possible through this funding will be vital in creating and maintaining high-quality education in New-Hanover County.”
Keep Your Hands Off Me, Inc. has been awarded $95,000 in general operating support to help continue its critical work serving survivors of sexual abuse. The organization offers trauma-informed services, advocacy and resources to individuals and families impacted by abuse. This funding will support day-to-day operations.
A $191,000 grant to Cape Fear Collective will fund a nonprofit capacity-building pilot designed to strengthen data systems, impact measurement, and strategic storytelling among New Hanover County organizations. Through this initiative, five local nonprofits will receive targeted support, including a data readiness assessment and hands-on technical assistance, to enhance internal systems and more effectively communicate outcomes to funders, partners, and clients and constituents. The grant will also support The Endowment in the development of a broader data collection agenda to help track progress against strategic goals. In addition to supporting individual organizations, this investment will contribute to a more cohesive and data-informed nonprofit ecosystem.
Together, these partners are advancing meaningful change, rooted in trust, community leadership, and a shared commitment to dignity, opportunity, and lasting impact for all who call New Hanover County home.
All grant awards are contingent upon The Endowment’s receipt of a signed grant agreement and Plan of Accountability from each grantee organization.
About The Endowment
The Endowment’s mission is to address the root challenges in community safety, community development, health and social equity, and education and to develop impactful solutions for every person in New Hanover County. The Endowment was established from the sale of the county-owned New Hanover Regional Medical Center to Novant Health in 2020. The initial fund has grown from nearly $1.3 billion to allow millions of dollars to be awarded as grants each year in perpetuity.
To stay informed about upcoming grant opportunities, news, and community events, follow The Endowment on social media or subscribe to the newsletter at www.theendowment.org