In Appalachia, a beacon of hope shines brightly: The Wade Center. Nestled in Bluefield, West Virginia, this nonprofit is more than just an after-school program, it’s a lifeline for at-risk children. In this episode of GrantTalk, powered by GrantWatch, host Libby Hikind explores how Karen Harvey, with the visionary leadership of Executive Director Betty Brainerd, has secured over $90,000 in grants to create life-changing opportunities for children.
The Wade Center’s Mission: Serving At-Risk Children 🏫💖
For children aged 6–12, The Wade Center’s after-school programs provide a safe, nurturing environment with programs designed to inspire, educate, and uplift. These kids face challenges that many others never encounter, but The Wade Center ensures they are not left behind.
What They Offer:
- 🍎 Nutritious Snacks: A USDA-approved start to every session.
- 📚 Homework Help: Personalized academic support.
- 💻 Computer Lab: Cutting-edge technology funded by grants.
- 🎨 Creative Arts & Field Trips: Opportunities to explore and grow.
- ⚽ Playground & Gym Activities: Keeping kids active and engaged.
- 🙏 Devotionals: Building character and community.
Operating out of a 100-year-old facility, The Wade Center has transformed its space with grant funding, turning it into a vibrant hub for learning and play.
Grants Providing After-School Programs 💰✨
Karen Harvey is a skilled grant writer and credits GrantWatch for helping her find funding opportunities that align with The Wade Center’s mission. Through persistence and creativity, the center has secured grants that have directly impacted the children they serve.
Key Grant Wins:
- AstraZeneca
- American Electric Power
- William and Helen Thomas Charitable Trust
- Dollar General Literacy Foundation
- Nora Roberts Foundation
- Proliteracy Worldwide
- DiscoverE Outreach
These funds have not only provided essential resources but have also inspired the children with new experiences and opportunities they never thought possible.
Meet the Visionary Leader: Betty Brainerd 🌟
At the helm of The Wade Center is Betty Brainerd, the Executive Director whose energy and vision have revitalized the organization. When Betty joined, the center faced significant challenges: declining enrollment, low morale, and financial strain. Under her leadership, the team has turned things around, earning the trust of the community and making the center a source of pride.
What Makes Betty Special:
- She is a hands-on leader, actively involved in every aspect of the center’s operations.
- Her enthusiasm inspires both her team and the community to rally behind the cause.
- She has worked tirelessly to ensure the sustainability of the Wade Center’s mission.
Karen Harvey herself says that writing grants is easier because of Betty’s unwavering dedication: “It’s very easy to write about what she does.”
Grant Writing Wisdom from Karen Harvey 📝✨
For nonprofits looking to follow the Wade Center’s lead, Karen offers invaluable advice:
1️⃣ Follow Instructions: Funders want to know how your mission aligns with theirs.
2️⃣ Start Small: Build credibility with smaller grants and grow from there.
3️⃣ Leverage Success: Highlight previous grant awards in new applications.
Karen’s expertise has been instrumental in securing funding, but she credits the success to a team effort led by Betty Brainerd and supported by the entire community.
After-School Programs: The Wade Center’s Vision 🌈
The team at The Wade Center isn’t stopping here. They have ambitious goals, including:
- Building a $1M endowment to ensure long-term sustainability.
- Securing an AmeriCorps grant to bring in volunteers and staff to enhance their programs.
Their vision is clear: To provide children with every opportunity to thrive, regardless of their circumstances.
Be Part of the Change 🌍💖
The Wade Center relies on the support of donors, volunteers, and grantmakers to continue its transformative work. Whether you want to contribute financially or give your time, there are many ways to get involved.
📧 Contact: info@wadecenter.com
🌐 Website: The Wade Center
📍 Location: Bluefield, West Virginia
GrantWatch Helped Make It Happen 🔗✨
Karen discovered these life-changing grants through GrantWatch, a platform that connects nonprofits to thousands of funding opportunities. Whether you’re a nonprofit or an individual with a dream, GrantWatch can help you find the support you need.
👉 Start Your Grant Journey Today: Find Grants on GrantWatch
Spread the Inspiration 🌟
Karen Harvey and Betty Brainerd have shown what’s possible when passion meets perseverance. Their story is a powerful reminder that with the right resources, you can change lives.
💬 Share your thoughts and stories in the comments! Don’t forget to subscribe to GrantTalk for more inspiring success stories and expert tips.
📣 Together, we can build stronger communities—one after-school program grant at a time!
About GrantWatch
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