The Our Justice Grant has been impactful in a tangible sense by allowing us to secure the capacity needed in a critical moment of our organization and it's also meant so much to us from an emotional standpoint to feel the solidarity of the Black community in this work we're doing on behalf of collective power building. These funds helped our team which had not been funded for our own internal capacity in the 4 years we've been in existence. Since we've received the Our Justice Grant we've seen significant growth and other support from local foundations that we'd sent countless grant applications to. We believe that AQUME providing their support was a catalyst to the broader community leaning into the importance of supporting land justice organizing for Black and brown communities in West Michigan. We're so grateful for Aqume and the Our Justice Grant because we finally felt seen and understood within a philanthropic environment that we've seen prioritize charitable projects over those that lift up and empower those they seek to support and the different between supporting charity and empowerment is the difference between keeping the status quo and transforming our society into what we know to be possible.
On behalf of Community of Hearts, I want to extend our most heartfelt thank you for believing in us as a grassroots organization founded and led by a woman of color. Your support was more than just a grant; it was a vote of confidence in our mission, our leadership, and our potential. Before your partnership, it often felt like our work and voices were invisible in the philanthropic space. But with your backing, we found not only validation, but a powerful new compass one that helped us expand our vision and deepen our purpose. Since your investment, we’ve been able to leverage additional funding from the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, United Way, and the Kent County Medical Alliance Society. These opportunities may have remained out of reach had it not been for your courage to support us and lead with equity and vision. Thanks to you, over 2,500 students have received access to mental health advocacy and support. Your belief in our work has transformed lives and reminded us that what we do matters. We are eternally grateful for your trust, your partnership, and your leadership.
Today we are proud to share a light on one of our incredible partners AQUME Foundation. Thank you for your unwavering support, partnership, alignment with out mission to serve youth and families through empowerment, education, and self-sufficiency. Your beleif in our work helps us to continue to make an impact in the lives of so many. Without committed supporters like you, our mission wouldn't move forward - and for that, we just want to give you your flowers.
